1. If you have a PC, download Windows Live Writer now. Trust me, you will thank me for it (best of all it’s free forever, not just for 30 days). You can download images as you write instead of downloading to the top of your blog (if you are using blogger) and you can manipulate them right inside the program. Also when you hyperlink, it opens a new page so that your blog is still on the readers computer. I’ve already lamented here about buying a MAC and not being able to use this program on it so I won’t do it again. *sigh*
3. Sign-up with Google Analytics. This report tracks number of readers, how long people stay on your blog–if they stay longer than 2 minutes (according to Copyblogger) you have a good blog. You just have to copy and paste the HTML codes into blogger. Don’t ask me how to do it cause I can’t remember, but you’ll figure it out if you read long enough.
4. Technorati. This site tracks when other people link to you, etc. Actually I haven’t quite figured out exactly all the things it tracks yet myself. But when Patricia Gray and I spoke on the phone last week she was the one that said ‘Could you get on it please? I can’t see when you link to me without it!!’ So I did.
4b. Blogging Friends. The instant friendships you make blogging is the greatest thing about it.
6. Comments. It was reading this post by Franklin Bishop that really made me sit up and pay attention but I also learned some blogging etiquette from my blogging friends [Patricia Gray] along the way. Patricia said “No free grazing” If I read someone’s blog post, its polite to comment. Also if someone takes the time to comment on your blog, you go right back to theirs and post a comment! So unless I’m having a blonde moment; if you comment on my blog, I will always post a comment on yours. It’s just good manners.
Also, just a little side note to all you bloggers out there. The word identification step? I took mine off my comments ages ago, it makes it so much easier to comment if you don’t have to insert that silly word every time. Then if you don’t get it exactly right it makes you do it over and over until you do. It really bugs me (and sometimes you give up, and then you don’t get that comment!!) So if you want more comments, disable it!!! Thank you 🙂
7. My Blog Roll. I have recently decided that anyone that comments regularly on my blog is a ‘friend’ and on my blog roll they go. Thanks to all of you that do! It makes me happy and I’m happy to reciprocate. So when you email me and ask me to add you to my blog roll and I don’t know who you are? That’s probably why you are not there. It’s not personal, it’s just the way I’m doing it right now. And that could change at any moment, if I find a compelling blog post that changes my mind. If you have an opinion on that, feel free to comment!
Things that Inspire one of my lovely blogger friends included my blog in a post she wrote recently and in this post, titled ‘Stair Decor’ this image was one of my favourites.
8. Linking. Anyone that’s been reading my blog will know that I have recently become a huge fan of Penelope Trunk, who wrote a post called ‘Why blogging is good for your career’, which I linked to here. She makes a 6 figure income with her blog and gives career advice. It was when I read this post of hers though, that I started linking way more to my past blog posts as I was writing. It keeps readers, reading your blog and that’s what we all want right?
9. Subscribers. If you like my blog and don’t want to miss a post, you can subscribe to it on my sidebar in the box on the right, close to the top. To get that widget you’ll have to register with Feedburner where you’ll have to cut and paste HTML code to get the box set up on your blog.
10. Readers. Recently when I was tagged, one of the ‘6 things about me’ was that I love cute little happy faces and one of my readers, Lousie, sent me this image of a dragonfly photographed by her son Jeff. Isn’t that amazing? I love you all!! And I love you even more when you send me emails and comment 🙂
Ever noticed that the real ‘meat’ of a blog posting is in the comments? If you don’t read them you are missing out. And if you don’t comment, then we are missing out on your contribution!
Thanks for reading my blog!!!
Related posts:
Why Blogging is Good for your Career
Happiness is. . . Having the Career that you Love
10 Tips that will take your Home Design Blog to the Next Level
Interesting post, Maria 🙂
We’ve only had our blog for a little over a month, so we’re still learning the blogging ropes, and all the little techie things that go along with it….
I get excited every time I see a new comment or a new follower on our blog 🙂 It’s fun to read people’s reactions to what we’ve written, and to know that people like what they see 🙂
Thanks for the blogging tips!!
Kelly
I so excited to have found your blog, I too LOVE Color.
I really enjoyed the blog tips, I’m still learning the ropes!!! Looking forward to learning more!
xoxo,
Cathleen
P.S. I do have a mac so I guess I’m limited! Ugg 🙁
I’m downloading that windows liv writer as we speak, and congrats on you 101th post!!!! i’ve been blogging for about 2 months and its been so fun!!!
Yet another compelling post from Maria that get’s me into action! Thanks for the nudge and the tips…you are so generous with your knowledge. Terreeia
Great blogging tips and the Stair Deco image is stunning!
I noticed that most of the Stair images at Things That Inspire have pickets & risers painted white and they look fantastic. These days the home builders install oak staircases and they tend to lack some oomph. It seems a shame to paint new wood and installing a runner to break up the colour doesn't seem to have the same impact. Is painting the only choice?
What a great post! I’ve been blogging around four months too, and have learnt so much, but some of these tips you’ve suggested are new to me, so I’m off to do some investigating!
And thank you Maria for visiting my blog.
Catherine
Congrats on the 101th post – I’m at the exact same point myself!
Some really great advice here and I shall be downloading and reading all your links and advice and doing as advised.
I am continually amazed at the generosity of bloggers.
Thanks so much for all of the information… I often wonder… now how did they do that ?
Great post! I feel that I still have so much to learn about blogging!
I discovered your blog after you left a comment on mine. What an amazing site and great tips. I’ve been part of a blogging team for about 1 1/2 years and I just love it ! I’ve met so many curious, talented women that have so many clever things to say. I”ve learned so much just reading blogs. Now if I could only find a way to quit corporate and make my $ in the blog. Glad to have discovered your beautiful blog and hope to see you over at Sensational Color again soon.
Oh my gosh!! So much great information!! I must admit some of the more techinical-sounding things scare me but it seems like they are necessities! Thanks for this post which has now becaome my to-do list haha
xoxo
Great advice! What really stuck with me is your friend Patricia’s term “no free grazing.” Thanks for reminding of us what we should know, but sometimes forget.
My favortie tip is #6 about the word id thing. I will often get it wrong and give up when leaving comments – so I don’t leave a comment – so yes, I %100 agree disable that darn thing. (but then I read somewhere about commenting spam and maybe that stops it . . )
my goodness, thank you for such an informative post! i am going to promptly follow all of your fab tips. best to you….and you ROCK!
Thank you so much, Maria for sharing all of this incredibly valuable information with all of us novice bloggers! I just started my blog last September, and I feel like I learn something new every day!
I know how much I appreciate and learn from the comments that I receive, so I try to leave a comment when I read a post.
xo
Brooke
The colors of the dragonfly are so luminiscent and lovely but it is his sweet smile that won me over! Thanks for sharing my son’s photo! Enjoy your happy, uplifting blog! Louise
One of the best info. posts I've read – ever! Printed it out to have easy access. Techno, courtesy & misc. blog info – just fabulous. The free grazing comment stumps me as sometimes I just don't agree with the opinion/viewpoint posted. Also, as for subscriptions – sorry I disagree here since I've cancelled a few recently since I can read the posts on the blog sites sooner than then arrive in my in-box plus too many e-mails to weed through each day is just a total waste of time. I'd rather control the technology (cellphone is for my convenience type of thing – not wrong numbers) then have it run my life. – KBN
Hi Maria
A truly well written and thoughtful post! I have been thinking about blogs in general in the last few days and you have mentioned several points that I find truthful and definitely worth considering. I feel very honored when another blogger has put themselves as a follower of my blog and I always do the same back if possible. As for comments…they are truly your life line, without people making comments, you feel like no one is reading your blog and we all know a particular post can literally takes hours to collate and write.
So thank you once again for the time and effort you put into your blog…it is a joy to read!
Mrs B
A interior decorator friend sent me the link to your blog. I’m a writer, so I most likely never would have found it on my own. Thanks for the blogging tips – down to earth for those of us who still use words like “thingy”. Beautiful blog – it makes me want to leave my manuscripts for awhile and decorate!
And don’t forget how important is to brand a blog 🙂
oh my – can I relate to all of these = except the links = I don’t use those, should i?????
and don’t fret subscriptions – a lot of people use google reader instead!!
hi! what a great blog you have. certainly something that i need help with. i love color too but am somewhat afraid i will get bored with it in my home (as i often have). i also want to thank you for stopping by m blog! come back again.
jenny
Maria.. you even make the basic fundamentals about blogging easy to understand!
My favorite part of writing a blog is the cool people you get to meet along the way… like yourself and also how much I’ve learned about myself through the process of writing and sharing ideas with others. And though it is a lot of work- I didn’t realize when I started how much joy it would bring into my life.
Thanks so much for this post! I am also a new blogger and have been curious as to the rules/manners of blogging. Which apparently I was CLUELESS to! Thanks so much for this post! Its so nice to be part of a community that is (1) so fun and (2) so nice!
Thanks for the info on Windows Live and Snagit! The hardest part of posting is getting those pictures on there in the right order. I agree with you on the Mac-I have lost so much time working on a post that somehow disappears! Thanks for all the great info! I wish you were teaching a class here.
Thank u for the great tips. I will def d/load the writer to facilitate my posting – so looking forward to using it. Thanks a mil!
Maria, this post should be a must-read for anyone with a blog… I’m forwarding this post to my blogging colleagues. Thank you!
Maria – make sure you tuck a Pic & Link to this post in your right-side column… it's THAT good and it CAN'T get lost within the mix of other great posts in your blog!!!
Thanks for putting Kelly and I on to Windows Live Writer – it's made such a difference in the quality of our posts, not to mention makes it so much easier to post! Thanks also for encouraging us to remove our "letters" from our comments! 🙂
About blog lists – we're following so many blogs that we couldn't begin to list them in our blog… so we're using Google Reader (although I'm not finding it easy). Kelly and I keep our favourite blogs on our Blog List, visible for all to see. When we discover a new, great blog we add it. I wish there was a better way to list the blogs we follow!!
Victoria from EdinDesigns @ DesignTies
Thank you so much. This is very helpful to me, a two-month blogger. I appreciate your generosity in sharing all you’ve learned. You have a lovely blog, too.
Sallymandy
After reading your post last evening and then commenting on the keeping of Blog Lists… I decided to make a change. Not only were we finding our very important blog list cumbersome, Kelly wanted to add pic/post-links in the right column like you have, Maria. So to accommodate that AND list ALL of the blogs we’ve found and love, I created another “blog” – come and check it out!! I’d be interested in your thoughts… do you still feel that you and our other favourite blogs are well represented this way???
Thanks!
Victoria from EdinDesigns @ DesignTies
Thank you for this post Maria – so very helpful. A lot of what you have listed I am familiar with but the first point about Apple v’s Windows features…now I understand why other blogs have so many features that I don’t. I will have to find a way around it as I am happy with the Mac otherwise. xv
No ‘free grazing’ for me! As a person new to blogging I found this post really interesting and useful. Thanks!
Hi Maria,
WOW! Your blog is wonderful! I am so glad to have discovered it. I happened your way tonight via Brooke at her beautiful blog Velvet & Linen. I recently discovered the world of interior designer blogs via Claudia at The Paris Apartment and have found so many fabulous interior design blogs since. WOW so this is where everybody is!!!!
Your post about 10 Things is just what I needed to read. It is so informative and should definitely be a MUST read. I didn't know how people felt about comments, now I do… I was totally surprised and thrilled with the comments I got after just putting up my icon and one simple photo and post. I really want to make my page look better but am still learning all the ins and outs of blogging and posting technically speaking. Now I know its considered more difficult on a mac, which I have and love… but must be part of the reason im frustrated. Maybe google can make it more compatible? Im gonna have to check your fabulous blog more often as it is really great! Your knowledge has helped put me on the right path at the beginning of my blogging journey. Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom.
Bonnie 🙂
Thanks for all of the great advice! I was making faux pas and not even realizing it. No more free grazing for me! 🙂
Ooooh…That was chock a block full of good info you don’t see everywhere! Thanks for that!! Downloaded livewriter and now off to check out snag-it…
Thanks, Thanks, Thanks!!
Great informative post. Enjoyed finding your blog as well.
Thank you for this excellent information! Not being the most computer savvy person, this is so helpful!
wow. What a great post. First of all, I do have a mac and have been so frustrated with how long it takes me to post using blogger.com. I have tried finding an equivalent to Live Writer but am still searching – any ideas? Now, you are going to be ne busy girl replying to all your new blogging friends, so I will be patient. Meanwhile I will subscribe!! Thanks for all the other tips!
Excellent! I am going to start leaving more comments!
My 1st time here (came from Velvet and Line) and I really enjoyed this post. i get about 1300 hits a day and certainly not nearly that many comments (40-50). So there is ALOT of free grazing going on out there. Great tips.
Kim
thanks so much for this very informative post!
i especially love the blog etiquette!
Maria – many thanks for this VERY helpful post; I’ve followed your links and will look forward to returning to visit … . . Judith
GREAT blog! Those tips were very timely for me and much appreciated!
Your post on color was really interesting-thank you!
I missed this post – I follow most blogs through my blog list, which I am beginning to think is not the way to go! I am not great about updating my bloglist, and am probably missing a bunch of blogs that I really like because I think my blog list is so big!
Anyway, great points. I think there are a lot of people out there who are looking at blogs through emails or readers, and maybe don’t know how to comment directly on the blog. I have received emails from readers saying that they love every email and file them away, which says to me that they are only looking at my posts through email…which is fine! Not everyone is as blog savvy as us, right? 🙂
I HATE those word verification things, and have never had them on my blog. If I get the occasional spam comment, I just delete it. It rarely happens, although I understand that it does happen to some bloggers all of the time. I also do not tend to get the ‘mean anonymous’ blog comments which force bloggers to have the ‘blogger approval’ on their posts.
Anyway, sorry for missing this the first time around, and thank you for the wonderful mention! I love your blog, I learn something from each and every post.
Hi Maria, Thanks for the blog tips. Being a photographer I have to comment on taking photos from web sites. I hope that people realize that photos are copyrighted and it is nice to put where you got the photo from and if it is a photo from an artist that you 1)ask permission to use the photo, 2)give photo credit, and maybe add a link to their website. I know many of the photos you may use are from magazine websites and such and not artists per se but it is nice to show credit to the photog/magazine when using a picture. You may do this already but I hope othres reading will do so as well.
I love your blog by the way! Got it from Velvet and Linen’s blogsite.
Thank you, thank you for writing this post! I use blogger like I text message(that is, like an old lady, going so slow it’s painful.) I downloaded Live Writer immediately(as instructed), and, as promised, it is soooo much easier. Move over everybody, I’m jumping into the fast lane. Maybe now, I can get some of my ideas out of my head and onto my blog….Thank you!!
This is a great post. Thank you for recommending the windows writer. I’m downloading it now. I came across your site from Material Girls and I must say it is a great read.
Great insight on blogging – I connected with so many of your points, and smiled at Patricia Gray’s “No free grazing”…
I covet the friendships that have easily formed as well – so typical, I think, of our need, as women, to connect. Makes me wonder what percent women make up in total blogs?
LOVE it!
from your comment box:
Yippeee! A comment from YOU!
great blog … I’ve been looking for good color insight for a while… and the blogging advise is great too.. we’re on the fence about getting one started.. this is a shove in the right direction!
I discovered your blog today and I think It’s really great !!
Thank your for your usefull tips
With friendship
AnnaPaula
Hi! You have performed a great service by writing this post! I am sooo grateful! I started blogging 10 weeks ago and I am learning as I go. Kelly and Victoria of Designties sent me the link to this post… I will definitely be thanking them. I look forward to following your blog. …susan
Found you by way of Kelly and Victoria and so glad I did. Thanks for your valuable info. I’m happy to be #94 in your quest–good luck!!!
Maria, I hope your goal of 1000 subscribers includes folk, like me, who prefer to read via an RSS feed rather than getting email messages.
Incidentally, I just tried the RSS link at the bottom of your home page (it seems to direct to http://colourmehappyblog.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default) and it failed for me. Could you have a friend verify it’s working OK?
Thank you so much for your very helpful and carefully written post. Learning the ropes of blogging as well as blogging courtesy is so very important!
I love this post and all your good advice. I am need blogger, so thank you!
Color is tricky. Thanks for sharing your tips and advice.
Keep it up!
cristin
http://simplifiedbee.blogspot.com/
I just wanted to let you know that I started blogging two months. Your blog was really my introduction into the blogosphere and I thank you for that. This article was quite helpful and I appreciate the good advice!
Insightful as always. Delayed response as I missed this post till today someone shared with me. I was so inspired that I immediately downloaded the Live Writer and got to write a blog (I'm shamefully embarrassed to admit how bad I am at keeping up with writing)
Thanks. Keep up the awesome work. It is enjoyed tremendously. You inspire many.
Hi! I've spent a wonderful evening checking out Patricia Gray's list of favorite blogs, including yours. I've been wanting to start blog myself but I'm concerned about your Mac comments. Any tips (from you or anyone reading this) on blogging with a Mac?
My husband and I have spent many weekends poring over paint decks and have wasted lots of $$$ on the wrong paint colors. Wish I'd discovered your blog before tonight. Keep up the great work.
HI Gretchen,
The few posts I've done on my MAC through 'blogger' how I used to do it are definitely easier than with a PC, I wouldn't let that stop you at all. Windows Live Writer is a great program but if you are a seasoned MAC user (like I am not) you could probably use any number of desktop MAC programs that are out there and figure them out (like I couldn't).
Happy blogging, and post another comment when you have one, I'd love to read it!
Maria
What terrific tips! I absolutely love your blog!
My husband and I just started our first blogs (mine is frivolous, his is real life), so thanks for the tips!!!
We cannot thank you enough for these blogger tips! We are just starting out and these are so helpful! Thank you so much.
I know this is an old post but I just found it and you and wanted to say thank you for a the great post!! I am still fairly new to blogging and loved reading all your tips. I will definitely be back!!
Fantastic post. I'm launching my blog soon and this is so very helpful. I look forward to reading more of your past posts.
this is a great post! i'm glad i just found your blog. welcome to my space!
best wishes from stockholm,
Tiina
http://www.liviaconcepts.blogspot.com
… and now you are +1 towards your 1000 goal 🙂
your blog is amazing, I just love it, I will be visiting it at least once a week over next six months as we are building in Melb Aus, and I think your blog is so informative (and gorgeous) – and yes, I've subscribed!!! cheers,
your blog turned out to be just the thing i needed.. 🙂 i am glad i stumbled into it.. yes id agree with all of the huge no of ppl who responded to ur blog.. it is amazing!!! and the tips tht u gave abt blogging are awesome..:) thanks for sharing thm.. and am subscribing for sure..:)
What a great post-!! Thanx and I know I will be learning more from you.
Denise
Great idea to try Live Writer. I just downloaded it – thanks for the tip. I'm really hoping it will make it easier for me to insert pictures in my blog on blogspot.
I'm new to blogging and I'm so glad I found your blog. It is wonderful and I plan on coming back often. oops, I mean I'll go subscribe right now ! 😉
This blog post is so awesome. I'm a new blogger and I just downloaded Windows Live Writer because you were raving about it. I'm so glad I did. It's so great. I can't wait to start using it! On another note I've just started following your blog too and your work is beautiful and so inspiring. -C
Thanks fo the great blog and a great post! I'll take your ideas into accoutn and will go check Live Writer :)))
I read a great deal of blogs, and I have not come across an article that articulates these points so well.
This is a great blog, Maria. Your blogging tips are really helpful. And as usual, your blog is just so attractive! Thanks
I've downloaded the app for putting photos in easily and I've turned off the requirement for the word verification 🙂
I've subscribed to your blog for ideas and inspiration when my new house is finally built 🙂
Okay, I know this post was written in March and I'm just now reading it and commenting, but I just found your blog last week and am in love. Seriously, I am learning A LOT from you and I just wanted you to know that I really enjoy and appreciate your blog. Making mine better is a goal for 2009 (better hurry, huh?). Anyway, thanks.
Great advice! Just found your blog through High-Heeled foot in the Door! I'm a former member of CMG!
Great great blog, thanks for sharing 🙂
Well, I've only been at this blogging thing for a couple of weeks and I gotta say this post of yours, right here, has been the greatest help to me so far!
So, I'm commenting about that 😉
Next, I'm off to subscribe, as we just purchased this home buildt in 1960 and it's been a wee challenge and seriously fun, to see it decorated with a style it deserves.
Lastly, truly awesome blog!
Hi Maria, I found your blog thru Patrica Grays blog. I read hers all the time. I really enjoy all your posts and love your passion for color. It make me happy too!!!
Eileen Kathryn Boyd
Hi Maria,
Thank you for the good information. I think it is much easier to think of things you want to blog about, or beautiful images you want to share, but way more difficult to figure out all the techie stuff (at least for me). So THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! Your advice is very helpful to a fairly new blogger!
Best Wishes! Christine
ps I also love your design advice.
Thanks for sharing and all the great advice.
great ideas and beautiful posts,
michèle
Thanks for all of that information! I bookmarked a bunch of posts you mentioned to go back and study. Good stuff! 🙂
Thanks so much Maria for the tips and tricks. Some I am already doing and others I will dbe doing shortly. You are a wealth of knowledge!!!
Well, I have just found your fabulous blog and am feeling perfectly "called out" by this post! The whole culture of blog etiquette is daunting so I appreciate your constructive reminders to us all to be polite and comment. I have truly enjoyed your thoughtful approach to each topic I have read so far. Thanks for your hard work!
I found this site using [url=http://google.com]google.com[/url] And i want to thank you for your work. You have done really very good site. Great work, great site! Thank you!
Sorry for offtopic
What great helpful information. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so much for this post. I recently started my blog and I'm so greatfull for every tip I get to increase traffic. I have been reading your blog for a while now and I'm very impressed by every post. You clearly love what you do and are very good at it. I'm sure we will be hearing more from you
happy writing and thank you for sharing
Firoozeh
Thanks again Maria for all of your help and advice! My favorite blog I love to read.
Great tips!! Thank you for sharing them. Some of them made me chuckle … like no free grazing. cheers, -susan
This is a terrific post – I only wish I had found it sooner! My first few months of blogging have been wonderful and exhausting all at the same time. Your post was helpful and inspirational. Sincerely.
You should consider publishing a weekly etiquette tip or monthly post – I know I would read it!
Getting on technorati now…
Marija
Found this post from Works for me Weds and I am so glad. I started blogging last April and really had NO idea what I was doing. As time goes on, I become more envious of the fabulous blogs out there. I never intended my blog to be read by thousands, however whenever I get even ONE comment I'm so excited!
Thanks for all the helpful info and if there is ever a program similar to WRITER for the MAC, please let me know.
Pam
Thanks so much for all the information. It is so great when experienced and successful bloggers share their wealth of knowledge with the new kids. I started my blog this week and I will definitely be working on your tips! Great blog!
Thanks for the tips! I just started my first blog and this has already helped out a ton!
What an unbelievably generous post – so much great information, thank you!
Heather
I am #655! Yay! This post is full of knowledge all bloggers should be aware of. Thank you so much for your devotion to helping us all be better in the blogosphere! I look forward to reading much, much more on your blog. One of the best I've found in a while!
I just wanted to say "thank you" again for all of your sharing with us. I signed up today for Windows Live Wire And I love it! You are the best!
What a generous thing to do – sharing these terrific tips. I'm downloading the Live Writer now. I know it will make an amazing difference to the time spent posting. Thanks for all your great advice.
Hi Maria, I have been using Live Writer for some time now and really like it. I started following your blog about two months ago and enjoy all the things you have taught me, also. I hate those word things at the end and have never used them. I don't have a problem with too many anon's but I can still look at it and reject publishing it. Thanks again.
Carol
Thanks for the excellent blogging tips. As a new blogger, I'm learning the etiquette as I go. I've been making the error of reading lots of blogs but not commenting. So, I'll def. be minding my manners now. And you will have a new subscriber in me. ; )
Thanks for the tips. Especially the Live Writer. Will download when I get a chance to later this evening. Adore your blog…
I just started my own blog a couple of days ago and am learning as I go. This post is fantastic! I have purchased a book on blogging and I have just learned more from reading your post than I have skimming through the blog book. Thank you for your generosity in sharing what you have learned for those of us who still have a long way to go. 🙂
This is a great post! I just started a blog a few days ago and am learning as I go. I purchased a book on blogging and have learned more from reading your post than I did reading the blog book. Thank you for your generosity in sharing this valuable information for those of us who still have a lot to learn. I just subscribed to your blog. Good luck reaching your 1000 subscriber goal!
I am fairly a newbie to blogger, within a week. I stumbled across your blog and have enjoyed reading your blogs. I'M ADDICTED!!!
Wow!~Thanks for all your good advice. I plan to try some things and hope it brings some good readers.
I have a blogging etiquette question.
If I link or write about someone's blog should I send them an email and let them know?
Thanks!
Hi Maria, I love this post too. I only just discovered that some helpful people out there talk about how to blog. Brent Riggs is another. Actually, the reason I found out about your site is someone that I don't remember mentioned your header as a great one. It's topic was about how to be a successful blogger. It must have been linked to Brent Rigg's Building a Better Blog. From him, I learned to do better headlines, take off the signature verification, and use a great header. That last part is tough. From my friend Trudy, I learned about commenting and returning comments. I like your mention of the writer which I too am downloading immediately! I also love your mention of always adding friends to blog rolls. It helps me keep up with my followers. :o)
Thanks for your recent comment. I was honored!
I'll be doing my own Things I've Learned About Blogging soon and I'll be sure to include a link to your blog!
Thanks!
Enjoyed your comments. I have been blogging for about 6 months and loving it. Now that I am in my own home, I want to take my blog to the next level, as you say it.
Excellent, just excellent. Thank you for sharing your blog and your tips. I am new to blogging also and still seeking a tone that works for me. Subscribing to your site now, aye!
Thanks for the tips! I just started blogging and found these really useful. 🙂
Thanks for the interesting reading – lots to take on board!
Hello Maria! Your blog has it all! Fantastic posts,advices on designing,beautiful pictures…and plus blogging advices! You have no idea how much I needed this post. I'm hurring to read all posts related..to learn as much as possible. I write a blog for 6 months now,and I know it could be much better. Thank u for your generosity.
btw,I'm your new subscriber and reader
passiondecor.blogspot.com
xoxoxo
Millie from Montenegro
Hello Maria!
I found your blog through Mille who left a comment above. I couldn't agree more with the whole "comment" thing. I put a counter on my page once and it said I had over a 1000 hits in one day,….but NO comments. So, someone reads my blog!!! I love the blogging world and web design. Thanks for the inspiration. 🙂
Love
Jessie
mymodstyle.blogspot.com
Hi Maria, I just started my blog a few months ago and I am slowly learning the ropes. Kelly from Design Ties and Donna from dhdesigns both recommended your site for blogging tips. Thanks so much for sharing all your invaluable advice it is making my life much easier.
Thank you for writing this, and really every post. Your blog is one of my absolute favorites, because it's not only beautiful but educational. LOVE IT!
Hi Maria,
This is all such great advice – love it and thanks!
Hi,
I just found you through a blog ranking site we are both registered on. I love color so that's what drew me to your site, but little did I know that I would find such amazing blogging advice! Thank you for all the links, I'm checking them all out.
WOW! Finally a post that covers so many of the questions I have had. I am going to go over this again and again.
Terrific! Many thanks.
What a great post with loads of useful information! I have been blogging for 5 years and I have learned so much from your blog! You are an incredibly talented woman!
What a great entry on your blog to read! There really is blogging etiquette and you nailed its description perfectly! PS – great blog!
Thank you for this post. I am trying to develop my blog to eventually someday have an online income. By the way- I sort through all my blogs quickly in the morning and save yours for the end of the day to enjoy like a fresh baked cookie (slowly savoring each detail)
Wow, I'm so happy I found your blog! I am brand new to blogging, and this will definitely give me some great ideas to get started. I will be back soon!
I have just recently happened upon your websie and now your blog and just think it's amazing. I've considered blogging, but, here you give me steps to follow. Thank you!
I LOVE your blog. You are an inspiration. Thank you. Thank you for the information about Windows Live Writer. Just what I was looking for in a blog writing program – I was constantly googling how to do things to no avail. Thank yo thank you thank you!
Thanks for the great post! I've been blogging for a few months and hope to turn this into my full-time job. Franklin Bishop offers a lot of great advice.
Blogging etiquette is something that I am learning and hope to master one day.
Great advise, thank you for this post! I just visited your blog via Velvet & Linen (one of my favorites) and I am so happy to have found you! I look forward to reading more of your posts. Thanks
Julia (your new subscriber)
Hi Maria –
Just came over from Velvet and Linen to have a look at this very informative post. I started blogging for fun and to keep a "diary" of sorts of my store. I had no idea how important all these blogging tips you have given us are. Being a designer and being technical for me is a huge battle. I agree that even though my blog is only for fun and to talk with other passionate designers about interior design, it is a thrill to get comments. I love our blogging community and am so appreciative for all the hard work they all put into the blogs. Thanks again for this post.
Nancy
Hi Maria! Happy 2011! I just discovered your blog today, and I love it- SOOOO informative! I'm very new to the blog world, and I'm still learning so much! I'm even attending a design blog conference in February!
Thank you for all the great tips!
I will definitely sunscribe so maybe I'll be number 1000:)
All the best, Julie
After reading your blog for only 2 days I'm thinking I may not ever be as informative as you are- I love it! I got the trial of Snagit, but after I send the photos I want to word or powerpoint, etc How do I then get them in the body of my blog? I use WordPress which is great, but it takes forever to save the image (if it's possible) and then find it again and paste in body of blog- Not sure if that all makes sense, but thank you for any advice you may have:)
xo, julie
Hi Julie,
You can just cut and paste the image from snagit into Windows Live Writer, it's a beautiful thing.
Happy blogging!
Maria
Maria, I am wowed by your generosity. I've been mulling over a blog, & you have fortified me. Thank you. Susan
Thank You, Thank You, Thank You for all of your wonderful words of advice and fantastic ideas.
Your's is one of those blogs that when I take the time to really delve deep into your many wonderful posts, I always come away with a re-newed sense of energy for my own blog.
Many Thanks!
Shelly
I have spent ALL MORNING digging around your blog! The information you share is amazing…so graceful of you!
Thank you for the advice…and sharing your great taste!
Thanks for such a great topic! See I'm following #6. I just found you through Velvet & Linen who I just found 2 days ago! This is all pretty new to me I'm working at getting all my things set up. I appreciate any info I can find. Great site look forward to reading more of it!
Loved the blogging tips, I just started a few months ago…loving it so far.
Thank you for your post!
If someone staying over 2 mins means your blog is a good one, what about half the afternoon?
I found your blog when Imogen Lamport linked to this post, and have been reading your blog for the past few hours.
It is great! And thanks for the tips. And also the encouragment to comment. I think I needed that. Must.get.over.my.shyness!!!
Hi Maria
Your blog ideas and "how to" are just fabulous. I am just starting a blog on ART in the HOME – I'm trying!! Thank you for all your hints and helps. You really are a designer's designer. Color is great and you are really talented with it.
LOLA
Hi Maria,
I have jus come across your blog from your "In Her Shoes' post, and wow you sound like you have a great job!
I have jus started my own blog (2 days ago) and have found your post so inspirational.. I think I need to get over my shyness. I have been reading blogs for almost a yr now and I'm embarrasses to say this is my first comment!
Thank you so much for all your tips and hints, you have a wonderful blog and I'd love to have one like tours someday 🙂
I don't know how I got here, but I'm so glad I did!!! Xoxo shelli
Thanks for the tips ~ very informative!!
Thanks. Just starting out so I need all the help I can get.
Maria,
I very much enjoyed this post and I am excited to have stumbled across your blog! I find your background very interesting because I have spent a lot of time practicing and learning about historic paint analysis. Take care!
Decorating and photography are two of my passions. Just started a photoblog. Your post was most helpful. Got Windows Live Writer and Snagit going now! Will add your other recommendations next time at the computer. Thanks for sharing!
I laughed when I read that if someone stays on your blog for 2 minutes or longer, then you have a good blog. Based on that criterion, I’d say yours is a phenomenal blog!! I spend far more time on it than two minutes. You’re a blessing to us newbie bloggers, Maria – thank you!!
This posting is a few years old, but for all those that might google in, just a word about blogs to all you bloggers. I like THIS blog of Maria’s because she DOES comment to people. It keeps things interesting. Yes, she does give away design advice for free which I find intriguing and I learn from when and how she does it. I have looked for a good design blog for years and dismissed so many, but this one seems to be everything I like in terms of ease, common sense, images, layout, and postings.
Maria,
I stumbled on your blog this morning, and am so thankful I did! The information you’ve shared is extremely beneficial, especially since I’m really a newbie-blogger in-the-making. Believe me, I’ll be visiting your blog often (and will make sure to comment!). I hope all is well with you, and that you have a very Happy Thanksgiving!
Oh Mighty One, you really are amazing when it comes to all this stuff! The queen of the design blog. I am now humbly beginning.
http://www.casaguru.com/web/painting/blog/-/blogs/22902623
Thanks for your help and inspiration!
I just discovered your blog–seems I am a few years late to this article, but I found it interesting nonetheless! I love how one of your articles leads me to another and I just want to keep reading! Thanks so much for sharing 🙂 Looking forward to reading more from you now that I’m hooked.
Wow Maria, Great post! Thanks for offering all this info. I can’t believe I just now started reading your blog regularly!
Wow, what a great site, an amalgamation of inspiration, practical tips and advice about blogging and colour, love it – a lapsed interior designer that might just find her way back to the world of colour 🙂
I am learning so so much from you, Maria! :/ So nervous about starting to blog though.. 🙁
I’m a Home Staging and ReDesign student, which I think might make for some fun blogging, but honestly, it’s so intimidating! There are so many blogger Designers, like yourself, that I look up to and consider to be mentors, that I begin to think that my blog can’t possibly be as informative as more experienced Designers! Although I have these fears, I am pushing through (I’m still here reading!!) and getting closer and closer every day to taking that plunge!!! 😀 Thanks so much for your supportive information!
Hi Maria, thank you very much for your blog post, really helpful! I am totally guilty of ‘free grazing’ so you are my first comment! Yay keep up the good work, and if you would like to check out my design blog please do 🙂 Emma
I need to start blogging! I learn so much from you, Maria. You have a great voice, o’ wise one with all things color!
Thank you!
Great info! A little late to the blogging game. Got a lot to learn.