Regular readers will know that I blogged a bunch in the wake of my trip to the U.k. for a hair show this past fall. You will recall I said no more blogs on that trip this year... but... A friend in the U.K. refered me to this site for a great way to keep tabs on what is new, hot and happening in the hair industry over there. I am sharing it with you cuz I think it is cool and you will like it. Go surf now!
TY
CG
http://www.ukhairdressers.com/style/index.asp?month1=361
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Clipper vocabulary - F
Wednesday in the blog is Andis clipper cutting vocabulary day.
F is for Fade
Fade is a term somewhat interchangeable with "taper". Fade is typically used in the textured market. Fading does not have to be limited to the perimeter of a clipper cut style. A fade can occur higher up the head at the crestline or beyond as well. A fade is characterized by a look that is higher and shorter with a lighter overall finish. The best phrase to use to describe a fade is a "seamless, progressive transition of lengths in a clippered style". How is that? Be on the lookout for a fade video from Andis and me coming to YouTube really soon.
Here is the Andis FadeMaster clipper:
http://www.andis.com/USA/productsPopUp.asp?SP=Y&Product=Clipper&Div=Professional&ID=01690
Here is the Andis 00000 BG series fade blade:
http://www.andis.com/USA/BladesAndMore/BladesPopUp.asp?ID=70
Here is a fun video on YouTube of a guy cutting a fade on himself... not easy as many a barber can not cut a good one on another's head much less do their own...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9My64fnRkrI
F is for Fade
Fade is a term somewhat interchangeable with "taper". Fade is typically used in the textured market. Fading does not have to be limited to the perimeter of a clipper cut style. A fade can occur higher up the head at the crestline or beyond as well. A fade is characterized by a look that is higher and shorter with a lighter overall finish. The best phrase to use to describe a fade is a "seamless, progressive transition of lengths in a clippered style". How is that? Be on the lookout for a fade video from Andis and me coming to YouTube really soon.
Here is the Andis FadeMaster clipper:
http://www.andis.com/USA/productsPopUp.asp?SP=Y&Product=Clipper&Div=Professional&ID=01690
Here is the Andis 00000 BG series fade blade:
http://www.andis.com/USA/BladesAndMore/BladesPopUp.asp?ID=70
Here is a fun video on YouTube of a guy cutting a fade on himself... not easy as many a barber can not cut a good one on another's head much less do their own...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9My64fnRkrI
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Clipper Tip #8
Tuesday is here again. Right after Monday. Tuesday is Andis clipper tip day.
Clipper Tip #8
Be Selfish
Never share your tools. Everyone needs to own, bring, use and maintain their own tools.
Have you ever tried to borrow a wrench from a mechanic? They will chase you out of the shop just for asking. Have you ever driven a rental car? How do you treat someone elses equipment? Shop tools are a bad move too. Shop owners who provide tools will spend a lot of time and money replacing damaged tools. Respect yourself and your craft. Buy your own stuff. Look out for a rookie. Hand down your old tools so they have something to use and do not ask to use yours. Help them. They do not know better. It is your job to train the next generation.
Go here to buy tools:
http://stores.atlantabarber.com/StoreFront.bok
Go here for a rental car:
https://www.hertz.com/rentacar/index.jsp?targetPage=reservationOnHomepage.jsp&refererUrl=http://search.msn.com&searchString=hertz&id=1150&LinkType=HZLK
Go here for a good mechnaic: They have a mechanic finder on this site. it is good.
http://www.cartalk.com/index.html
Clipper Tip #8
Be Selfish
Never share your tools. Everyone needs to own, bring, use and maintain their own tools.
Have you ever tried to borrow a wrench from a mechanic? They will chase you out of the shop just for asking. Have you ever driven a rental car? How do you treat someone elses equipment? Shop tools are a bad move too. Shop owners who provide tools will spend a lot of time and money replacing damaged tools. Respect yourself and your craft. Buy your own stuff. Look out for a rookie. Hand down your old tools so they have something to use and do not ask to use yours. Help them. They do not know better. It is your job to train the next generation.
Go here to buy tools:
http://stores.atlantabarber.com/StoreFront.bok
Go here for a rental car:
https://www.hertz.com/rentacar/index.jsp?targetPage=reservationOnHomepage.jsp&refererUrl=http://search.msn.com&searchString=hertz&id=1150&LinkType=HZLK
Go here for a good mechnaic: They have a mechanic finder on this site. it is good.
http://www.cartalk.com/index.html
Monday, December 29, 2008
KC, MO
KC, MO
I went to KC, MO for the clipper cutting. While I was there I made the most of the BBQ. 2 nights in town and 2 BBQ dinners. Can’t beat that. Arthur Bryant’s one night and the next. I highly recommend either (or both) on your next trip to town. The crew at Evelyn’s beauty supply were great hosts for the Andis class and hands-on workshop. We just do not do enough hands-on workshops. These are a lot of fun to facilitate and likely the most real useable education for your dollar and time opportunity out there. Would you like a hands-on workshop in your area? let me know. If I get sufficient interest for any markets we will find a way to set one up and get it done. I would love to come to your area. Espicially if your area is known for BBQ!
I went to KC, MO for the clipper cutting. While I was there I made the most of the BBQ. 2 nights in town and 2 BBQ dinners. Can’t beat that. Arthur Bryant’s one night and the next. I highly recommend either (or both) on your next trip to town. The crew at Evelyn’s beauty supply were great hosts for the Andis class and hands-on workshop. We just do not do enough hands-on workshops. These are a lot of fun to facilitate and likely the most real useable education for your dollar and time opportunity out there. Would you like a hands-on workshop in your area? let me know. If I get sufficient interest for any markets we will find a way to set one up and get it done. I would love to come to your area. Espicially if your area is known for BBQ!
Monday - Queation of the week
The Andis Company takes a holiday break from just before Christmas until just after January... But the blog blogs on.
Monday is question of the week. This weeks question:
Which is better, the Andis BGRc clipper or the Andis Excel 2 speed?
These are both Andis BG series detachable blade clippers. Both can drive the full range of BG blades both CeramicEdge, ceramic cutter blades and UltraEdge steel blades. The BGRc is upgradeable to cordless and is basically 1 speed, high speed. The Excel 2 speed is just that, a true 2 speed model. Both share many of the key features that make Andis detachable blade clippers great. Nylon housings. Good power-to-weight ratios, long cords, state of the art ergonomic design, etc.
Have a look at the links to learn more.
Here is the BGRc:
http://www.andis.com/USA/productsPopUp.asp?SP=Y&Product=Clipper&Div=Professional&ID=63965
Here is Excel 2 speed:
http://www.andis.com/USA/productsPopUp.asp?SP=Y&Product=Clipper&Div=Professional&ID=22315
Go here to buy them:
http://www.householdappliance.com/andis/
or here:
http://stores.atlantabarber.com/StoreFront.bok
Monday is question of the week. This weeks question:
Which is better, the Andis BGRc clipper or the Andis Excel 2 speed?
These are both Andis BG series detachable blade clippers. Both can drive the full range of BG blades both CeramicEdge, ceramic cutter blades and UltraEdge steel blades. The BGRc is upgradeable to cordless and is basically 1 speed, high speed. The Excel 2 speed is just that, a true 2 speed model. Both share many of the key features that make Andis detachable blade clippers great. Nylon housings. Good power-to-weight ratios, long cords, state of the art ergonomic design, etc.
Have a look at the links to learn more.
Here is the BGRc:
http://www.andis.com/USA/productsPopUp.asp?SP=Y&Product=Clipper&Div=Professional&ID=63965
Here is Excel 2 speed:
http://www.andis.com/USA/productsPopUp.asp?SP=Y&Product=Clipper&Div=Professional&ID=22315
Go here to buy them:
http://www.householdappliance.com/andis/
or here:
http://stores.atlantabarber.com/StoreFront.bok
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Clipper Tip #7
Tuesday is Andis clipper tip day. We are getting back on track form my lack of laptop.
Clipper Tip #7 - Summer Camp
Just like mom did with your socks and underwear for camp, put your name on all your tools. An engraving pen will keep all your tools yours.
Label everything. No sharing of tools. Respect your investment and that of others.
Links:
Buy an engraving pen:
http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=94688-353-290-01
Clipper Tip #7 - Summer Camp
Just like mom did with your socks and underwear for camp, put your name on all your tools. An engraving pen will keep all your tools yours.
Label everything. No sharing of tools. Respect your investment and that of others.
Links:
Buy an engraving pen:
http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=94688-353-290-01
Monday, December 22, 2008
Monday - Question of the week
Monday here in the blog is Andis ask the expert question of the week day. I feature a question form the prior week that I know many more are asking or wondering about.
I have had a lot of questions this past week asking me to recommend Andis tools as holiday gifts. This is hard to do as you do not know the intended users plans for the tool. And you can not ask if it is a gift. My fall back recommendation is that a pro tools in a home use application is always sure to pass the test of time and durability. Go pro. make no apologies for a tools that is slightly tougher, larger, more powerful and built to take the rigors of 50 haircuts per day. This way even if the gift receiver is a professional the tool will be more than up to the task.
Insist on the best. Insist on Andis.
Links this week are links to great places to buy your Andis gifts all year around.
Household appliance:
http://www.householdappliance.com/andis/
Atlanta Barber and beauty:
http://stores.atlantabarber.com/-strse-Clippers-fdsh-Trimmers-cln-Andis/Categories.bok
Bowman Barber Supply:
http://www.bowmanbeauty.com/store/shop.mvc?page=BBS/CTGY/2-1000
I have had a lot of questions this past week asking me to recommend Andis tools as holiday gifts. This is hard to do as you do not know the intended users plans for the tool. And you can not ask if it is a gift. My fall back recommendation is that a pro tools in a home use application is always sure to pass the test of time and durability. Go pro. make no apologies for a tools that is slightly tougher, larger, more powerful and built to take the rigors of 50 haircuts per day. This way even if the gift receiver is a professional the tool will be more than up to the task.
Insist on the best. Insist on Andis.
Links this week are links to great places to buy your Andis gifts all year around.
Household appliance:
http://www.householdappliance.com/andis/
Atlanta Barber and beauty:
http://stores.atlantabarber.com/-strse-Clippers-fdsh-Trimmers-cln-Andis/Categories.bok
Bowman Barber Supply:
http://www.bowmanbeauty.com/store/shop.mvc?page=BBS/CTGY/2-1000
Back on line
My computer is back and things should be back to normal... just in time for the holiday break.
TY
Ivan
TY
Ivan
Clipper Business Tip - 4
I am catching up.
This is from last week on Fri.
This is week #4 for the Andis / ClipperGuy business tip. Rock your clipper cutting world!
We have slipped a few weeks due to my lack of a laptop. I am trying to catch up.
Week #4 Tip - Get Caught Sanitizing
Sanitizing tools and work spaces is required by law. The high visibility implementation of sanitizing procedures makes for strong marketing tactics. Change the solution in your wet sanitizer often to maintain the crystal clear, vivid blue color that says "clean". Dump the jar often to lose the hair ball in the bottom too. Have a can of Andis Cool Care 5inONE sanitizing spray on your counter top in plain sight. get caught using it every client, every time. Word will spread and bacteria will not. Good sanitizing procedures are just good business.
Buy a sanitizer jar:
http://stores.atlantabarber.com/-strse-196/Barbicide-Disinfectant-Jar/Detail.bok
Buy a can of Andis Cool care 5inONE spray:
http://stores.atlantabarber.com/-strse-426/andis%2C-cool%2C-care%2C-spray/Detail.bok
Buy a jug of barbacide disinfectant:
http://stores.atlantabarber.com/-strse-397/barbicide%2C-plus%2C-disinfectant/Detail.bok
Buy an ultraviolet sanitizer:
http://stores.atlantabarber.com/-strse-201/Marvy-Sanitizing-System/Detail.bok
This is from last week on Fri.
This is week #4 for the Andis / ClipperGuy business tip. Rock your clipper cutting world!
We have slipped a few weeks due to my lack of a laptop. I am trying to catch up.
Week #4 Tip - Get Caught Sanitizing
Sanitizing tools and work spaces is required by law. The high visibility implementation of sanitizing procedures makes for strong marketing tactics. Change the solution in your wet sanitizer often to maintain the crystal clear, vivid blue color that says "clean". Dump the jar often to lose the hair ball in the bottom too. Have a can of Andis Cool Care 5inONE sanitizing spray on your counter top in plain sight. get caught using it every client, every time. Word will spread and bacteria will not. Good sanitizing procedures are just good business.
Buy a sanitizer jar:
http://stores.atlantabarber.com/-strse-196/Barbicide-Disinfectant-Jar/Detail.bok
Buy a can of Andis Cool care 5inONE spray:
http://stores.atlantabarber.com/-strse-426/andis%2C-cool%2C-care%2C-spray/Detail.bok
Buy a jug of barbacide disinfectant:
http://stores.atlantabarber.com/-strse-397/barbicide%2C-plus%2C-disinfectant/Detail.bok
Buy an ultraviolet sanitizer:
http://stores.atlantabarber.com/-strse-201/Marvy-Sanitizing-System/Detail.bok
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Wednesday is Andis Vocabulary Day - E
Wendesday is Andis Clipper vocabulary day.
E is for Ear arc
The curved hairline around the ear from the sideburn to the rear quarter panel.
This can be an especially tricky area for many clipper cutters. Getting the arc clean, smooth and crisp without notching the hairline is a learned skill. Of course, I have a training tip for this. Look at the ear like it is a clock. 12 O'clock high is the top of the ear. Cut from 9 O'clock to high noon... then from 3 O'clock to high noon. Do not try to trim it in a single pass... this will cut in too far on one side. Turn the finished side to the morror and use it as a template to cut side 2.
E is for Ear arc
The curved hairline around the ear from the sideburn to the rear quarter panel.
This can be an especially tricky area for many clipper cutters. Getting the arc clean, smooth and crisp without notching the hairline is a learned skill. Of course, I have a training tip for this. Look at the ear like it is a clock. 12 O'clock high is the top of the ear. Cut from 9 O'clock to high noon... then from 3 O'clock to high noon. Do not try to trim it in a single pass... this will cut in too far on one side. Turn the finished side to the morror and use it as a template to cut side 2.
No computer! :(
My laptop is sick and at the laptop doc.
My home internet, phone and cable is out due to the weather...
so I have limeted web access...
I had to go to the library to get on line.
Yikes!
I will be back to the daily blogging very soon. Please be patient. I have a lot to say... and it is backing up!
TY
Ivan
My home internet, phone and cable is out due to the weather...
so I have limeted web access...
I had to go to the library to get on line.
Yikes!
I will be back to the daily blogging very soon. Please be patient. I have a lot to say... and it is backing up!
TY
Ivan
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Thursday - Featured Andis item
The Andis Company photo shoot ran waaaaaaaay late today. I am blogging late. Better than not blogging.
This weeks featured item is the Andis PhatMaster clipper (01750).
We spent 2 years developing the special blade on this tool. The Phat Master is the classic Master clipper with our first-in-the-world Phat blade. The Phat blade adjusts from 1A to 2 blade lengths. No need of the use of guards 0, 1, 2... You can cut farther up the head at longer lengths. An amazing tool.
Links:
Here is the PhatMaster on the Andis web site:
http://www.andis.com/USA/productsPopUp.asp?SP=Y&Product=Clipper&Div=Professional&ID=01750
Here is a YouTube vid featuring the PhatMaster clipper:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=am1BsE5GOtI
This weeks featured item is the Andis PhatMaster clipper (01750).
We spent 2 years developing the special blade on this tool. The Phat Master is the classic Master clipper with our first-in-the-world Phat blade. The Phat blade adjusts from 1A to 2 blade lengths. No need of the use of guards 0, 1, 2... You can cut farther up the head at longer lengths. An amazing tool.
Links:
Here is the PhatMaster on the Andis web site:
http://www.andis.com/USA/productsPopUp.asp?SP=Y&Product=Clipper&Div=Professional&ID=01750
Here is a YouTube vid featuring the PhatMaster clipper:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=am1BsE5GOtI
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Silk and Classy video shoot
Silk and Clazzy barber college was the site of a great remote video shoot this past week. Kenny Williams is always a source of great clipper education and inspiration. I asked Kenny if we could come to his school to shoot some clipper cutting educational footage. It is time to let a few of our talented associates shine in our videos. How much do you really want to see me anyway? Glen Martinez starred as one of Kenny’s models for our high bald fade clipper dvd. Glen, who was a student at the time, is now graduated and cutting hair. Glen did a nice job of showing off our Phat Master clipper and our nano silver magnetic guide combs on video. Look for these videos as well as the afro shaping video that Kenny did for us on YouTube really soon.
Wed. is Vocab day - D
Wednesday is vocabulary day
D is for Dead Muskrat
A form of undercut hair style in which the interior is uniformly layered to a length of approximately two inches. Gets its name from the idea that when tousled to style, the hair on the top of the head resembles road kill. A lifeless, funny shaped furry thing, just lying there.
Links:
This is the best site for looking at pics of guy haircuts and clipper cuts. Check out their gallery.
http://www.haircutsformen.org/index.html
I could not find an ideal pic of the dead muskrat cut... this one could be tweaked a bit to look like ti... just need to undercut the perimeter close with a clipper. mess up the top some more.
http://haircutsformen.org/buzz/haircuts/buzz146.htm
This is an ideal clipper for creating looks like these... the set of guards will be important. One of my faves right now...
http://www.andis.com/USA/productsPopUp.asp?SP=Y&Product=Clipper&Div=Professional&ID=24145
D is for Dead Muskrat
A form of undercut hair style in which the interior is uniformly layered to a length of approximately two inches. Gets its name from the idea that when tousled to style, the hair on the top of the head resembles road kill. A lifeless, funny shaped furry thing, just lying there.
Links:
This is the best site for looking at pics of guy haircuts and clipper cuts. Check out their gallery.
http://www.haircutsformen.org/index.html
I could not find an ideal pic of the dead muskrat cut... this one could be tweaked a bit to look like ti... just need to undercut the perimeter close with a clipper. mess up the top some more.
http://haircutsformen.org/buzz/haircuts/buzz146.htm
This is an ideal clipper for creating looks like these... the set of guards will be important. One of my faves right now...
http://www.andis.com/USA/productsPopUp.asp?SP=Y&Product=Clipper&Div=Professional&ID=24145
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Clipper Tip #6
Clipper Tip #6 - Protect Your Investment
Save the purchase reciept. Do not forget to fill out and mail in the warranty registration card packed in with your clipper.
Take good care of your tools. Take the needed measures to do so. Andis makes great stuff... but sometimes there will be the need for service. We have authorized service centers located throughout the country. There is a link below to the list on the andis.com web site for the service center nearest you. You can also send the tools to the factory service center from wherever you are.
Andis service centers:
http://www.andis.com/USA/service/authorizedServiceStations.asp
Save the purchase reciept. Do not forget to fill out and mail in the warranty registration card packed in with your clipper.
Take good care of your tools. Take the needed measures to do so. Andis makes great stuff... but sometimes there will be the need for service. We have authorized service centers located throughout the country. There is a link below to the list on the andis.com web site for the service center nearest you. You can also send the tools to the factory service center from wherever you are.
Andis service centers:
http://www.andis.com/USA/service/authorizedServiceStations.asp
Monday, December 8, 2008
Be an Andis All Star
How good do you cut hair?
How god do you talk clippers?
How good do you sell clippers?
Do you want to get up on stage and show the professional barber and beauty industry just what you can do? Would you like the chance to do it at one of the largest beauty events in the country?
Have a look at the information below. Get in touch with me to get involoved.
Andis Education -- Be An Andis All-Star
Do you have what it takes to be an Andis all star?
This is your chance. Andis is offering licensed barber and cosmetology professionals and students the chance to clipper cut live on stage at the largest event in America. The February 2009 Bronner Brothers International Hair Show will be the place for you to showcase your barbering talent.
Review the details and the rules listed below and contact Ivan Zoot Andis director of education and training to register and be one of the few to have the chance to show the world and the professional beauty industry what you can do.
The Details:
The three 8 hour days of the Bronner Bros. show February 21, 22, 23, 2009 are to be divided into 24 one hour time slots for presentations on the Andis stage at the Atlanta Barber and Beauty booth. World Congress Center, Atlanta, GA
Each one hour time slot will be filled with a different independent haircutter to present 50 minuets of educational programming.
Time slots will be “sold” for a $100 charitable donation. 100% of this “slot fee” will be donated to a local Atlanta barber school chosen by the management of Atlanta Barber and Beauty.
Each participating haircutter will get an Andis gift package valued at over $150.00
Participants must register in advance including payment in full of the “slot fee donation” by contacting Ivan Zoot Andis director of education and training. Ivan will slot and manage the stage presentations on-site. expert@andisco.com or call 800.558.9441
The Rules:
All participants must be licensed barbers, cosmetologists or barber or cosmetology students with proper proof.
All participating haircutters and their models are required to sign a release to participate.
Only Andis tools are permitted to be used on the Andis stage. Haircutters must provide all their own tools and equipment.
The use of straight razors is prohibited.
Business appropriate clothing is required and must be free of licensed logos (eg: sports teams, clothing brands, hair care brands, etc.)
Haircutters must use an Andis cutting cape as provided.
Haircutters must start and finish on time. Haircutters will have 5 min before their segment begins to set up and 5 min at the end of their segment to clean up. The segment ends promptly at 50 min past the hour regardless of the state of the haircut demo.
Any display of inappropriate language or behavior will result in the immediate end to a haircutters segment.
All haircutters are responsible for their own transportation to Atlanta, accommodations and ticket for access to the show.
All haircutters must provide their own models. Models will need paid tickets for access to the event floor as well.
Haircutters will be provided the following: Electricity via a power strip, haircutting chair, small table for tools, headset microphone. All other equipment and supplies are the responsibility of the haircutter.
expert@andisco.com
How god do you talk clippers?
How good do you sell clippers?
Do you want to get up on stage and show the professional barber and beauty industry just what you can do? Would you like the chance to do it at one of the largest beauty events in the country?
Have a look at the information below. Get in touch with me to get involoved.
Andis Education -- Be An Andis All-Star
Do you have what it takes to be an Andis all star?
This is your chance. Andis is offering licensed barber and cosmetology professionals and students the chance to clipper cut live on stage at the largest event in America. The February 2009 Bronner Brothers International Hair Show will be the place for you to showcase your barbering talent.
Review the details and the rules listed below and contact Ivan Zoot Andis director of education and training to register and be one of the few to have the chance to show the world and the professional beauty industry what you can do.
The Details:
The three 8 hour days of the Bronner Bros. show February 21, 22, 23, 2009 are to be divided into 24 one hour time slots for presentations on the Andis stage at the Atlanta Barber and Beauty booth. World Congress Center, Atlanta, GA
Each one hour time slot will be filled with a different independent haircutter to present 50 minuets of educational programming.
Time slots will be “sold” for a $100 charitable donation. 100% of this “slot fee” will be donated to a local Atlanta barber school chosen by the management of Atlanta Barber and Beauty.
Each participating haircutter will get an Andis gift package valued at over $150.00
Participants must register in advance including payment in full of the “slot fee donation” by contacting Ivan Zoot Andis director of education and training. Ivan will slot and manage the stage presentations on-site. expert@andisco.com or call 800.558.9441
The Rules:
All participants must be licensed barbers, cosmetologists or barber or cosmetology students with proper proof.
All participating haircutters and their models are required to sign a release to participate.
Only Andis tools are permitted to be used on the Andis stage. Haircutters must provide all their own tools and equipment.
The use of straight razors is prohibited.
Business appropriate clothing is required and must be free of licensed logos (eg: sports teams, clothing brands, hair care brands, etc.)
Haircutters must use an Andis cutting cape as provided.
Haircutters must start and finish on time. Haircutters will have 5 min before their segment begins to set up and 5 min at the end of their segment to clean up. The segment ends promptly at 50 min past the hour regardless of the state of the haircut demo.
Any display of inappropriate language or behavior will result in the immediate end to a haircutters segment.
All haircutters are responsible for their own transportation to Atlanta, accommodations and ticket for access to the show.
All haircutters must provide their own models. Models will need paid tickets for access to the event floor as well.
Haircutters will be provided the following: Electricity via a power strip, haircutting chair, small table for tools, headset microphone. All other equipment and supplies are the responsibility of the haircutter.
expert@andisco.com
Monday is Question of the week day
Monday is Question of the week day. I will be positing on Monday the best question of the week from the prior week from Ask the Expert at the Andis web site. It will be deemed best either in its freshness and “I have not heard that question before” ness… or in its broad based applicability to many readers. If it helps them… it just might help you.
One of the most popular ask the expert Q’s over the past few years has been “I want a tool to use to dry shave because I cannot use a blade because I am prone to razor bumps.” “Which Andis tool should I buy?”
Great question. Andis is the world leader in trimmers. The Andis HeadLiner model LS (29605) is a great home use tool. It is made in the U.S.A. to Andis’ highest standards. It is available at an affordable price and will do a great job. It has been specifically designed for dry shaving of the face and the entire head. I also have recommended the Andis T-Outliner for those who want a tool from our professional line. It had the world famous T-Outliner blade an a classic look, feel, size and shape. Dry shaving is more popular than ever and these 2 tools lead the pack in this category.
Another great tip is to follow up the use of these tolls with a splash of witch hazel. Witch haze is inexpensive. It is available at all drug and discount stores. It provides a fresh, crisp and clean feeling and is a light astringent for the skin. Try this tip with your Andis tool for the best dry shave.
This is the tool I recommend in my answer:
http://www.andis.com/USA/productsPopUp.asp?SP=Y&Product=Trimmer&Div=Consumer&ID=29605
This is info on witch hazel:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Witch-hazel
You know how much I love Wiki pages....
This is the other tool:
http://www.andis.com/USA/productsPopUp.asp?SP=Y&Product=Trimmer&Div=Professional&ID=04710
This is a great place to buy these tools:
http://www.householdappliance.com/andis/
One of the most popular ask the expert Q’s over the past few years has been “I want a tool to use to dry shave because I cannot use a blade because I am prone to razor bumps.” “Which Andis tool should I buy?”
Great question. Andis is the world leader in trimmers. The Andis HeadLiner model LS (29605) is a great home use tool. It is made in the U.S.A. to Andis’ highest standards. It is available at an affordable price and will do a great job. It has been specifically designed for dry shaving of the face and the entire head. I also have recommended the Andis T-Outliner for those who want a tool from our professional line. It had the world famous T-Outliner blade an a classic look, feel, size and shape. Dry shaving is more popular than ever and these 2 tools lead the pack in this category.
Another great tip is to follow up the use of these tolls with a splash of witch hazel. Witch haze is inexpensive. It is available at all drug and discount stores. It provides a fresh, crisp and clean feeling and is a light astringent for the skin. Try this tip with your Andis tool for the best dry shave.
This is the tool I recommend in my answer:
http://www.andis.com/USA/productsPopUp.asp?SP=Y&Product=Trimmer&Div=Consumer&ID=29605
This is info on witch hazel:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Witch-hazel
You know how much I love Wiki pages....
This is the other tool:
http://www.andis.com/USA/productsPopUp.asp?SP=Y&Product=Trimmer&Div=Professional&ID=04710
This is a great place to buy these tools:
http://www.householdappliance.com/andis/
Friday, December 5, 2008
Inspiration - Final U.K. posting
Inspiration
Travel is inspiring. I can’t believe the wealth of information I took in while in London for the salon International show. The first time I went to London everything was new. There was just too much to see, absorb, process and hope to understand. Last year I was aware of the fact that I was seeing and learning much more because I was able to tune out or disregard much of what was so new the time before. It was as though my vision had improved. I noticed much more likely because there was less to notice more intently and more to be seen by looking. Did that make sense? Basically, I could skip stuff. For instance, the whole idea of driving on the other side of the road. I was over that on my second trip. There was no longer a need to give that any thought. Except, just as you step from the curb. By trip three I was instinctively looking to the proper side to avoid certain death. I am sure there must be a point of diminishing return. Otherwise one would continue to see and learn more right at home in ones own environment. I am sure that is not the case. At some point as you become even more familiar you begin to not look at things, not see new things and not see breaks in the patterns you have come to take for granted. I am also finding myself thinking about how best to retain things I have seen or avoid losing the inspirations I feel. Specifically, as this relates to haircuts. The things I have seen are quite exciting. I saw many haircuts that left me thinking… wow! Why do I not think of these things. I saw not a single haircut that I could not easily duplicate. It is no surprise that my technical skills are at that point. But I saw many haircuts, style ideas and creative application of our art that I would likely never have come up with on my own. I have to identify a way to fuel this mental engine on home turf. I made this basic observation on my first trip and it is even more glaring now. America is positioned as the land of the free, but we are way too tied down to the ideas of others. Hair in America is all about following the trend and the crowd. Women’s hair is about following the current look… Matching to some unattainable ideal. Men’s hair is about just trying not to be different. Be sure not to attract attention. Fit in. We have a lot to learn here. I will be taking more notes and looking for more inspiration.
Acting American
So I did this one haircut on stage at Salon International in London. When I was done I was approached by a woman who introduced herself as a sign language interpreter for a stylist in the crowd. She went on to explain that the stylist wanted to know if I would trim her hair. She was impressed with me and my techniques and wanted a haircut from me. The stylist, through the interpreter asked “are you from the U.S.A.” Without thinking I replied, can’t you tell by my accent?”. Of course she can’t. She cannot hear me. Her reply said it all. The interpreter said, “she said you act American”. I am not sure just how I act American or even what acting American means. I do know that from their perspective it means different and not necessarily better.
Travel is inspiring. I can’t believe the wealth of information I took in while in London for the salon International show. The first time I went to London everything was new. There was just too much to see, absorb, process and hope to understand. Last year I was aware of the fact that I was seeing and learning much more because I was able to tune out or disregard much of what was so new the time before. It was as though my vision had improved. I noticed much more likely because there was less to notice more intently and more to be seen by looking. Did that make sense? Basically, I could skip stuff. For instance, the whole idea of driving on the other side of the road. I was over that on my second trip. There was no longer a need to give that any thought. Except, just as you step from the curb. By trip three I was instinctively looking to the proper side to avoid certain death. I am sure there must be a point of diminishing return. Otherwise one would continue to see and learn more right at home in ones own environment. I am sure that is not the case. At some point as you become even more familiar you begin to not look at things, not see new things and not see breaks in the patterns you have come to take for granted. I am also finding myself thinking about how best to retain things I have seen or avoid losing the inspirations I feel. Specifically, as this relates to haircuts. The things I have seen are quite exciting. I saw many haircuts that left me thinking… wow! Why do I not think of these things. I saw not a single haircut that I could not easily duplicate. It is no surprise that my technical skills are at that point. But I saw many haircuts, style ideas and creative application of our art that I would likely never have come up with on my own. I have to identify a way to fuel this mental engine on home turf. I made this basic observation on my first trip and it is even more glaring now. America is positioned as the land of the free, but we are way too tied down to the ideas of others. Hair in America is all about following the trend and the crowd. Women’s hair is about following the current look… Matching to some unattainable ideal. Men’s hair is about just trying not to be different. Be sure not to attract attention. Fit in. We have a lot to learn here. I will be taking more notes and looking for more inspiration.
Acting American
So I did this one haircut on stage at Salon International in London. When I was done I was approached by a woman who introduced herself as a sign language interpreter for a stylist in the crowd. She went on to explain that the stylist wanted to know if I would trim her hair. She was impressed with me and my techniques and wanted a haircut from me. The stylist, through the interpreter asked “are you from the U.S.A.” Without thinking I replied, can’t you tell by my accent?”. Of course she can’t. She cannot hear me. Her reply said it all. The interpreter said, “she said you act American”. I am not sure just how I act American or even what acting American means. I do know that from their perspective it means different and not necessarily better.
Clipper Business Tip - Week #3
This is week #3. We lost a week last week with the Thanksgiving holiday. By Thanksgiving next year you will be rolling in the dough if you have implemented these weekly tips.
Week #3 - Go Short
The best way to build a clientele of clipper cuts and short hair is to wear short hair yourself. Lead by example. Clients look to you for guidance and inspiration. You are the licensed and experienced professional. There are very few busy barbers who wear pony tails. Wearing short hair lets you use and discuss short hair styling products from a powerful perspective. Getting your hair cut frequently keeps you in touch with the client experience.
I go this one better. I pay for my haircuts. Getting a free cut from a co-worker is not a client experience. We are too close to the business. Getting out and sitting in a chair in another shop will provide some real perspective as to how you compare and what the client sees and experiences. You might want to invite another barber to your shop and share impressions and perspectives.
This is a great men's haircut resource site. Image gallery, message and chat forums, etc. Check it out.
http://haircutsformen.org/
Week #3 - Go Short
The best way to build a clientele of clipper cuts and short hair is to wear short hair yourself. Lead by example. Clients look to you for guidance and inspiration. You are the licensed and experienced professional. There are very few busy barbers who wear pony tails. Wearing short hair lets you use and discuss short hair styling products from a powerful perspective. Getting your hair cut frequently keeps you in touch with the client experience.
I go this one better. I pay for my haircuts. Getting a free cut from a co-worker is not a client experience. We are too close to the business. Getting out and sitting in a chair in another shop will provide some real perspective as to how you compare and what the client sees and experiences. You might want to invite another barber to your shop and share impressions and perspectives.
This is a great men's haircut resource site. Image gallery, message and chat forums, etc. Check it out.
http://haircutsformen.org/
Thursday, December 4, 2008
More on the Obama cut
Here is the Link to the article in the Chicago Sun Times that has helped to fuel the interest in the Barack Obama haircut look.
http://www.suntimes.com/news/politics/obama/1279297,CST-NWS-barber14.article
Here is the link to our YouTube video that teaches the technical aspects of the cut:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JfKJaly9pSk
Of course we put more clipper focus on it.
http://www.suntimes.com/news/politics/obama/1279297,CST-NWS-barber14.article
Here is the link to our YouTube video that teaches the technical aspects of the cut:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JfKJaly9pSk
Of course we put more clipper focus on it.
Salon International - The Team
The Salon International team 2008
MK and I have worked together a few times already. He and I strike a nice balance. Black and white, funky and VERY American, wildly creative and technically precise. We do well together. And then there is Kevin. Kevin is silent but highly skilled. He just quietly plugs away at the most amazing designs with clipping and trimming tools. Chris was added to the mix this year. He is a talented hair cutter. His area of specialty was layer cutting on mid length and long ladies styles. He was using a layering technique I have called scrape layering. Sections are combed out, held to the sides, evenly distributed. Chris was then using a carving or scraping motion in an arc from blow the section with a 3 _ blade. The extra length of the teeth provided him the ability to literally pick and choose which portions of the section he was to cut away. The resulting effect was a soft, highly mobile layering that was impossible to distinguish from a razor cut. All done with a clipper blade, a regular clipper blade. Not a T-24 or a funky texture tool.
As promised... only 1 more post about Salon Int 2008 tomorrow and then you will not hear about it until 2009.
MK and I have worked together a few times already. He and I strike a nice balance. Black and white, funky and VERY American, wildly creative and technically precise. We do well together. And then there is Kevin. Kevin is silent but highly skilled. He just quietly plugs away at the most amazing designs with clipping and trimming tools. Chris was added to the mix this year. He is a talented hair cutter. His area of specialty was layer cutting on mid length and long ladies styles. He was using a layering technique I have called scrape layering. Sections are combed out, held to the sides, evenly distributed. Chris was then using a carving or scraping motion in an arc from blow the section with a 3 _ blade. The extra length of the teeth provided him the ability to literally pick and choose which portions of the section he was to cut away. The resulting effect was a soft, highly mobile layering that was impossible to distinguish from a razor cut. All done with a clipper blade, a regular clipper blade. Not a T-24 or a funky texture tool.
As promised... only 1 more post about Salon Int 2008 tomorrow and then you will not hear about it until 2009.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Household Appliances
Have you ever googled Andis? Have you ever seen the free embedded google ads in many web sites? Have you seen the ads for Household appliances? I am sure you have and for good reason. These guys sell a lot of Andis. They offer good prices on our stuff and support the sale with good service. Many Andis dealers do all that but these guys are a bit of a web phenomenon... I do not know much about web search engine optimization but these guys must know a lot. Have a look at their site with the link below and get yourself some Andis.
http://www.householdappliance.com/andis/
http://www.householdappliance.com/andis/
Vocabulary Day - C
Wednesday is Vocabulary day - C
C is for Cadence
A rhythm developed in cutting with an over comb technique. This helps to maintain evenness and smoothness in the finish of a taper.
Have you watched good over comb cutting? Clipper over comb or shear over comb or blending shear over comb... any and all tools used in over comb benefit from smooth cadence and rhythm. Watch as you see the follow through. The barber Will seem to be cutting air as they move up and of the head as they come back around to the head. I have demonstrated this many times. Even pointed out the fact that as I come off of the head I am cutting nothing... just maintaining my rhythm and cadence as I work up the head. it takes time and work to develop cadence in this way but the investment pays off big in the quality of your work.
Links:
Get a metronome like they use to teach music to hear a rhythm at a pace for you:
http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=wittner+metronome&tag=googhydr-20&index=aps&hvadid=1149597101&ref=pd_sl_6e6yucy7bn_b
Here is the Wiki page on metronomes to learn about them:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metronome
Here is the Wiki page on cadence... More than you want to know:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadence
C is for Cadence
A rhythm developed in cutting with an over comb technique. This helps to maintain evenness and smoothness in the finish of a taper.
Have you watched good over comb cutting? Clipper over comb or shear over comb or blending shear over comb... any and all tools used in over comb benefit from smooth cadence and rhythm. Watch as you see the follow through. The barber Will seem to be cutting air as they move up and of the head as they come back around to the head. I have demonstrated this many times. Even pointed out the fact that as I come off of the head I am cutting nothing... just maintaining my rhythm and cadence as I work up the head. it takes time and work to develop cadence in this way but the investment pays off big in the quality of your work.
Links:
Get a metronome like they use to teach music to hear a rhythm at a pace for you:
http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=wittner+metronome&tag=googhydr-20&index=aps&hvadid=1149597101&ref=pd_sl_6e6yucy7bn_b
Here is the Wiki page on metronomes to learn about them:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metronome
Here is the Wiki page on cadence... More than you want to know:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadence
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Clipper Tip #5
Tuesday is Clipper Tip day. Now that I am posting blog entries 5 days each week I am devoting one day each week to a clipper tip. This will be a Clipper Tip taken in numerical order straight from my clipper Tips book. Put these tips to work for you and accelerate your clipper cutting today. You can use them every day… not just Tuesdays! I have included related links as well. Surf on!
Clipper Tip #5 - Sock 'em
Transport clippers in large, thick socks to avoid chipped teeth, scratches and abuse.
I have done this for many years. I have "clipper socks" that have 1,000's of frequent flyer miles. I bought 3 pair (6 socks) at Walmart nearly 20 years ago and I have used them ever since. This is a small, 1 time investment that will last for years. I do not think I have ever washed them either. I bought the grey ones like they make the sock monkeys out of. They are big and fluffy. They work perfect. Slip the clipper in the sock and scrunch up the extra and wrap the cord around the entire ting. Clipper is safe and protected. This is ideal for those of us who travel with tools. Cutters who work in more than 1 shop or location or go out to cut shut-ins... this is a great tip. See the pic included.
Links:
Here are the socks I like:
http://workingperson.com/products/22_113_368/1/1254/Fox_River_Mills_Socks:_Monkey_2-Pack_Cotton_Blend_Socks_6851-2.html
Here is the site for making sock monkeys with the extras:
http://lennytaylor.freeyellow.com/Monkey.htm
Your finished sock monkey should look like this:
http://urbanfarmgirl.net/wp-content/uploads/2006/05/SockMonkey1.jpg
Clipper Tip #5 - Sock 'em
Transport clippers in large, thick socks to avoid chipped teeth, scratches and abuse.
I have done this for many years. I have "clipper socks" that have 1,000's of frequent flyer miles. I bought 3 pair (6 socks) at Walmart nearly 20 years ago and I have used them ever since. This is a small, 1 time investment that will last for years. I do not think I have ever washed them either. I bought the grey ones like they make the sock monkeys out of. They are big and fluffy. They work perfect. Slip the clipper in the sock and scrunch up the extra and wrap the cord around the entire ting. Clipper is safe and protected. This is ideal for those of us who travel with tools. Cutters who work in more than 1 shop or location or go out to cut shut-ins... this is a great tip. See the pic included.
Links:
Here are the socks I like:
http://workingperson.com/products/22_113_368/1/1254/Fox_River_Mills_Socks:_Monkey_2-Pack_Cotton_Blend_Socks_6851-2.html
Here is the site for making sock monkeys with the extras:
http://lennytaylor.freeyellow.com/Monkey.htm
Your finished sock monkey should look like this:
http://urbanfarmgirl.net/wp-content/uploads/2006/05/SockMonkey1.jpg
Certificates - Certified
Certificates - Certified
It is done. It is official. I have all 3 of the certificates from Guinness in my possession. It is sanctioned, blessed, certified, whatever. These are nice. The originals will be framed and displayed in my home office. I will make color copies for a few folks. One set will be framed and travel with me to shows around the world. Another framed set will be provided to Andis for their use. I will send copies to all who helped and supported me for the event. Rooster’s will get a set. So will American Haircuts in GA and Success barber school in IN. I will have to make a set for Lisa Penny to display in her shop in SC as well. I think it will be great to have them displayed in the businesses of friends and associates who had an active role in making the records a reality. I have made an extra set for my safe deposit box. Here is a pic of me with them. They will go nice with my belt buckle.
Links:
Here is the site for Guinness. Please go out and break my records:
http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/
Here is the site to order a trophy buckle like I did:
http://www.montanasilversmiths.com/
This is the site for the great Frame Up... These guys are framing my certificates:
They can frame stuff for you too.
http://www.thegreatframeup.com/
It is done. It is official. I have all 3 of the certificates from Guinness in my possession. It is sanctioned, blessed, certified, whatever. These are nice. The originals will be framed and displayed in my home office. I will make color copies for a few folks. One set will be framed and travel with me to shows around the world. Another framed set will be provided to Andis for their use. I will send copies to all who helped and supported me for the event. Rooster’s will get a set. So will American Haircuts in GA and Success barber school in IN. I will have to make a set for Lisa Penny to display in her shop in SC as well. I think it will be great to have them displayed in the businesses of friends and associates who had an active role in making the records a reality. I have made an extra set for my safe deposit box. Here is a pic of me with them. They will go nice with my belt buckle.
Links:
Here is the site for Guinness. Please go out and break my records:
http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/
Here is the site to order a trophy buckle like I did:
http://www.montanasilversmiths.com/
This is the site for the great Frame Up... These guys are framing my certificates:
They can frame stuff for you too.
http://www.thegreatframeup.com/
Monday, December 1, 2008
In your face in the U.K.
I hope you and your family had a very nice Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
I'm back!
I am still writing about the U.K. show from October. How odd is that? I guess there was a lot going on... plus... all the extra blogging has set me back a bit. After this week... no more U.K. stuff. I promise.
In Your face Education U.K. vs. U.S.A.
The first time I cut on stage in the U.K. it was very strange. In the U.S.A. we like our information and presentation “in your face”. We put it out there with energy and enthusiasm. We holler and yell. We tell people how it is and what to think and buy. In the U.K. this just does not fly. In pro beauty education it is a much softer sell. Over there it is more “show what you know”. There is a sense that “I will not listen to you or do what you say, just because you say it is so”. “I need to know that you have the talent and experience to back it up.” This is a very different way to present and teach. It is a different way to sell. It took me a few trips to figure out where my unique style and talents can find a good fit. This year I think we found that fit. I was able to draw and hold bigger crowds that I had done in prior years. I had attendees asking questions more so than in the past. I even had the post-presentation autograph seekers that I had not gathered at the U.K. show before. Who says that I am not trainable? Old dogs, new tricks.
Links I like:
This is the web site for London U.K. I will shut up about it. You go there for yourself now:
http://www.visitlondon.com/?WT.srch=1&WT.mc_id=us_ol_sem_0101029&gclid=CPChgrDZn5cCFQ7aDAodbiidJA
Cant go to London w/o a tube map:
http://www.afn.org/~alplatt/tube.html
Wow. This is cool. This is the official web site of the British monarchy: How cool is this? My monarchy will have a web site too!
http://www.royal.gov.uk/output/Page1.asp
I'm back!
I am still writing about the U.K. show from October. How odd is that? I guess there was a lot going on... plus... all the extra blogging has set me back a bit. After this week... no more U.K. stuff. I promise.
In Your face Education U.K. vs. U.S.A.
The first time I cut on stage in the U.K. it was very strange. In the U.S.A. we like our information and presentation “in your face”. We put it out there with energy and enthusiasm. We holler and yell. We tell people how it is and what to think and buy. In the U.K. this just does not fly. In pro beauty education it is a much softer sell. Over there it is more “show what you know”. There is a sense that “I will not listen to you or do what you say, just because you say it is so”. “I need to know that you have the talent and experience to back it up.” This is a very different way to present and teach. It is a different way to sell. It took me a few trips to figure out where my unique style and talents can find a good fit. This year I think we found that fit. I was able to draw and hold bigger crowds that I had done in prior years. I had attendees asking questions more so than in the past. I even had the post-presentation autograph seekers that I had not gathered at the U.K. show before. Who says that I am not trainable? Old dogs, new tricks.
Links I like:
This is the web site for London U.K. I will shut up about it. You go there for yourself now:
http://www.visitlondon.com/?WT.srch=1&WT.mc_id=us_ol_sem_0101029&gclid=CPChgrDZn5cCFQ7aDAodbiidJA
Cant go to London w/o a tube map:
http://www.afn.org/~alplatt/tube.html
Wow. This is cool. This is the official web site of the British monarchy: How cool is this? My monarchy will have a web site too!
http://www.royal.gov.uk/output/Page1.asp
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Links are live!
Thank you to the crack web team at Andis. Links in the blog are now live... But you knew that 'cuz they are blue now and clickable.
Thank you to the Andis web team.
Click happy!
Thank you to the Andis web team.
Click happy!
Wednesday Vocabulary - B
Wednesday is vocabulary day. I will feature a blog post every Wednesday that shares another important clipper vocabulary word. I will do one letter each day from A to Z and back to A again. I likely have few years’ worth of Wednesday words in my Clipper Talk book so I will not likely run out for some time. I am also open to and soliciting donations of words. If you have a word and its definition in the world of clipper cutting that I need to feature please offer it up. Send me an email.
B is for Backhand Cutting
A clipper cutting technique in which the clipper is help backwards in the hand and sections to be cut are held in the fingers. This technique is preferred as an interior layering technique on any length of hair.
The picture demonstrated the hand hold for this technique. It is easy to do, fun to use, and much safer than scissor point cutting. it is great for cutting kids so as to lessen the chance of cutting your fingers. It also allows the application of clipper texture and speed where many of us have not chosen a clipper.
Links I like:
Here is a dictionary and thesaurus for the stuff I do not know:
http://www.merriam-webster.com/
This is behindthechair.com. You should have an account here and subscribe to their daily web updates. Good stuff for our biz:
http://www.behindthechair.com/
This is a cool barber shop that I visited this week. You should go here. Look. learn, get a great cut (I did).
http://belmontbarbershop.com/
B is for Backhand Cutting
A clipper cutting technique in which the clipper is help backwards in the hand and sections to be cut are held in the fingers. This technique is preferred as an interior layering technique on any length of hair.
The picture demonstrated the hand hold for this technique. It is easy to do, fun to use, and much safer than scissor point cutting. it is great for cutting kids so as to lessen the chance of cutting your fingers. It also allows the application of clipper texture and speed where many of us have not chosen a clipper.
Links I like:
Here is a dictionary and thesaurus for the stuff I do not know:
http://www.merriam-webster.com/
This is behindthechair.com. You should have an account here and subscribe to their daily web updates. Good stuff for our biz:
http://www.behindthechair.com/
This is a cool barber shop that I visited this week. You should go here. Look. learn, get a great cut (I did).
http://belmontbarbershop.com/
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Clipper Tip # 4
Tuesday is Clipper Tip day. Now that I am posting blog entries 5 days each week I am devoting one day each week to a clipper tip. This will be a Clipper Tip taken in numerical order straight from my clipper Tips book. Put these tips to work for you and accelerate your clipper cutting today. You can use them every day… not just Tuesdays! I have included related links as well. Surf on!
Clipper Tip #4
Boxing lesson
Keep the original box from your clipper. Store the clipper in the box when it will not be used for an extended period of time. Use the original box to protect the tool when shipping for service.
Pretty simple. Take good care of your tools and they will take good care of you for a long time.
Links:
Here is the list of Andis repair centers for servicing your andis tools:
http://www.andis.com/USA/service/authorizedServiceStations.asp
Here are some great tool cases... good esp for clipper cutters who travel to cut from shop to shop or to shut-ins, etc. An amazing case place:
http://www.everytoolcase.com/Super-Search-All-Tool-Cases-C112163.html?refid=G11379."tool+case"&gclid=CK_NuuywkJcCFSAUagodJ380ow
You have to ship a clipper home to us? Here is the USPS postal rate calculator. Great if you are an ebayer too.
http://postcalc.usps.gov/
Clipper Tip #4
Boxing lesson
Keep the original box from your clipper. Store the clipper in the box when it will not be used for an extended period of time. Use the original box to protect the tool when shipping for service.
Pretty simple. Take good care of your tools and they will take good care of you for a long time.
Links:
Here is the list of Andis repair centers for servicing your andis tools:
http://www.andis.com/USA/service/authorizedServiceStations.asp
Here are some great tool cases... good esp for clipper cutters who travel to cut from shop to shop or to shut-ins, etc. An amazing case place:
http://www.everytoolcase.com/Super-Search-All-Tool-Cases-C112163.html?refid=G11379."tool+case"&gclid=CK_NuuywkJcCFSAUagodJ380ow
You have to ship a clipper home to us? Here is the USPS postal rate calculator. Great if you are an ebayer too.
http://postcalc.usps.gov/
Monday, November 24, 2008
Back to the Westin
Back to the Westin
You remember the Westin.
It has been too long. I was back in the stairwell of the Westin North Shore last night. I had spent a lot of time there when I was in training for the world record attempt. Since the event I have gotten a bit fatter and lazier. It was high time to get back to the heights of the stairwell and shed the excess I have accumulated since reclaiming my world records. The hotel feels taller. The stairs feel steeper. Every year I manage to lose some weight and get into better shape in November and December. This is my time for less business travel. I can eat better and I have more time for exercise. My weight was up to 188 when I was in for a physical last week. Let’s see how I can finish out the year. See you in the stairwell.
Here is the Westin:
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1724
Here is a web site for an assn. for the sport of stair climbing:
http://www.stairclimbingsport.com/
Here is a site for a body mass index chart. Here's to a healthy 2009 for you and me:
http://www.consumer.gov/weightloss/bmi.htm
You remember the Westin.
It has been too long. I was back in the stairwell of the Westin North Shore last night. I had spent a lot of time there when I was in training for the world record attempt. Since the event I have gotten a bit fatter and lazier. It was high time to get back to the heights of the stairwell and shed the excess I have accumulated since reclaiming my world records. The hotel feels taller. The stairs feel steeper. Every year I manage to lose some weight and get into better shape in November and December. This is my time for less business travel. I can eat better and I have more time for exercise. My weight was up to 188 when I was in for a physical last week. Let’s see how I can finish out the year. See you in the stairwell.
Here is the Westin:
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1724
Here is a web site for an assn. for the sport of stair climbing:
http://www.stairclimbingsport.com/
Here is a site for a body mass index chart. Here's to a healthy 2009 for you and me:
http://www.consumer.gov/weightloss/bmi.htm
Friday, November 21, 2008
Business Tip - Week #1
Friday is Business Tip day. Now that I am posting blog entries 5 days each week I am devoting one day each week to a clipper cutter business tip. This will be a business tip taken in order directly from my ClipperGuy Says… Get Busy book. Put these tips to work for you and you will see dramatic increases in your business and haircut traffic. By posting them on Friday you will have the weekend to think about the tip and how you will implement it into your business. By Monday morning… look out world. Here you come. I have included related links as well.
I missed week #1. I posted week #2 last week so we are backing up a week to post week #1 first... We will go to week 3 next week so we will be out of order for 1 more week after week 2 is week 1 and week 1 was week 2 but week 3 is to be week 3... got that? Did that make sense? Do you feel weak?
Week #1 - Greet Immediately
Clients should not get more than three feet into the door before they are greeted. If you have a small carper just inside the door call it the carpet rule. No one gets off the carpet without being acknowledged.Holler hello. Look in their direction. Nod your head. You do not need to engage them in a full conversation. Just let them know that you know that they are there and that you are happy about it. A bell on the door is a must in a barber shop. Look up and acknowledge every time it rings.
Here is a low cost magnetic door chime.
http://www.valudisplay.com//product/product_detail.asp?sku=0MTZ800000000∏%5Fname=Magnetic+Door+Chime+Alert+%2D+Security+Products
A site for entry mats and door carpets
www.abtec.com/matting.htm
These guys sell security mirrors for businesses... Want to see your front doorfrom anywhere in your shop?
http://www.securityproductsinc.com/products/prmirrordomes.htm?gclid=CL6es7-oh5cCFRPBDAodagdzYA
I missed week #1. I posted week #2 last week so we are backing up a week to post week #1 first... We will go to week 3 next week so we will be out of order for 1 more week after week 2 is week 1 and week 1 was week 2 but week 3 is to be week 3... got that? Did that make sense? Do you feel weak?
Week #1 - Greet Immediately
Clients should not get more than three feet into the door before they are greeted. If you have a small carper just inside the door call it the carpet rule. No one gets off the carpet without being acknowledged.Holler hello. Look in their direction. Nod your head. You do not need to engage them in a full conversation. Just let them know that you know that they are there and that you are happy about it. A bell on the door is a must in a barber shop. Look up and acknowledge every time it rings.
Here is a low cost magnetic door chime.
http://www.valudisplay.com//product/product_detail.asp?sku=0MTZ800000000∏%5Fname=Magnetic+Door+Chime+Alert+%2D+Security+Products
A site for entry mats and door carpets
www.abtec.com/matting.htm
These guys sell security mirrors for businesses... Want to see your front doorfrom anywhere in your shop?
http://www.securityproductsinc.com/products/prmirrordomes.htm?gclid=CL6es7-oh5cCFRPBDAodagdzYA
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Hair From Where?
Hair from Where?
I cut a lot of hair at Salon International. Hair from here, there and everywhere. Europe is small and close together and in one show I was interacting with people from many nations. Hungary, Poland, Ireland, Scotland, Israel, Lebanon, Luxenburg, Belgium, The Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Russia, Sweden, Norway, Germany Just to name a few. Nearly all spoke English. All spoke enough “barber English” so as to be able to participate in one of my quickie on-stage consultations so as to get the haircut to their liking. Barbering has some universal language. Haircutting is very visual to begin with. They can all understand what they see me doing. Some just do not laugh at some of my jokes. Is that “American humor” or just language barriers.
Links I like:
Here is a map of Europe. Might help you find a few of these places. I sure needed it.:
http://www.worldatlas.com/webimage/countrys/europe/europea.htm
Here is a link to Rosetta Stone. The ppl who make the language learning software. I have the Spanish one and I am trying to learn. This stuff works.
http://www.rosettastone.com/
Here is the Wiki page about American Humor. This is interesting.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_humor
I cut a lot of hair at Salon International. Hair from here, there and everywhere. Europe is small and close together and in one show I was interacting with people from many nations. Hungary, Poland, Ireland, Scotland, Israel, Lebanon, Luxenburg, Belgium, The Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Russia, Sweden, Norway, Germany Just to name a few. Nearly all spoke English. All spoke enough “barber English” so as to be able to participate in one of my quickie on-stage consultations so as to get the haircut to their liking. Barbering has some universal language. Haircutting is very visual to begin with. They can all understand what they see me doing. Some just do not laugh at some of my jokes. Is that “American humor” or just language barriers.
Links I like:
Here is a map of Europe. Might help you find a few of these places. I sure needed it.:
http://www.worldatlas.com/webimage/countrys/europe/europea.htm
Here is a link to Rosetta Stone. The ppl who make the language learning software. I have the Spanish one and I am trying to learn. This stuff works.
http://www.rosettastone.com/
Here is the Wiki page about American Humor. This is interesting.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_humor
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Heads needed - Photo shoot
I need help.
I need heads.
We have a photo shoot scheduled for Dec. 11 on the Milwaukee, WI area.
I need heads to cut and shoot.
I need the following:
Male, classic taper cut - Caucasian
Male classic buzz clipper cut - Caucasian
Male short clipper taper cut - Caucasian
Ladies mid length bob with layers - Caucasian
Male fade cut - African American
Male slightly longer Caesar, even all over, mid length - African American
Male classic short - African American
Heads used will be paid. Best haircut of your life plus some $ for a 1/2 day of "work". Heads not used will still get cut for FREE!
Get me via email
expert@andisco.com for more info.
TY
I need heads.
We have a photo shoot scheduled for Dec. 11 on the Milwaukee, WI area.
I need heads to cut and shoot.
I need the following:
Male, classic taper cut - Caucasian
Male classic buzz clipper cut - Caucasian
Male short clipper taper cut - Caucasian
Ladies mid length bob with layers - Caucasian
Male fade cut - African American
Male slightly longer Caesar, even all over, mid length - African American
Male classic short - African American
Heads used will be paid. Best haircut of your life plus some $ for a 1/2 day of "work". Heads not used will still get cut for FREE!
Get me via email
expert@andisco.com for more info.
TY
Wednesday is Vocabulary day
Wednesday is vocabulary day. I will feature a blog post every Wednesday that shares another important clipper vocabulary word. I will do one letter each day from A to Z and back to A again. I likely have few years’ worth of Wednesday words in my Clipper Talk book so I will not likely run out for some time. I am also open to and soliciting donations of words. If you have a word and its definition in the world of clipper cutting that I need to feature please offer it up. Send me an email.
A is for Adjustable Blade Clipper - This is a clipper featuring a blade with a lever allowing the user a choice among a limited range of cutting lengths. These clippers vary from general purpose tools to very specialized tapering equipment. The typical blade adjustment range is from 000 to #1.
The Andis Master is the most popular adjustable blade clipper on the planet. The Andis Beauty Master is a new and great tool in this category as well (pictured).
Here is my email to submit words for inclusion:
expert@andisco.com
Here is the Andis web site for more great tools:
http://www.andis.com/
Here is a site to buy everything Andis:
http://stores.atlantabarber.com/StoreFront.bok
A is for Adjustable Blade Clipper - This is a clipper featuring a blade with a lever allowing the user a choice among a limited range of cutting lengths. These clippers vary from general purpose tools to very specialized tapering equipment. The typical blade adjustment range is from 000 to #1.
The Andis Master is the most popular adjustable blade clipper on the planet. The Andis Beauty Master is a new and great tool in this category as well (pictured).
Here is my email to submit words for inclusion:
expert@andisco.com
Here is the Andis web site for more great tools:
http://www.andis.com/
Here is a site to buy everything Andis:
http://stores.atlantabarber.com/StoreFront.bok
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Mohawk Madness
This guy has a new Guinness World record too. I figured I should promote his as I am all about promoting mine. Have a look at the link
http://news.aol.com/weird-news/article/mans-mohawk-may-be-worlds-tallest/249619
Awesome!
Here is also a YouTube vid of a guy giving himself a Mohawk using a system that I found to be very interesting... and very effective. How come I did not think of this? As a professional I need to make it too complicated. This is just plain simple.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gq55wSA9_DQ
This is a page on haircut styles with info on Mohawks
http://www.latest-hairstyles.com/other/mohawk.html
And of course... The Wiki page on Mohawk Hairstyles
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mohawk_hairstyle
http://news.aol.com/weird-news/article/mans-mohawk-may-be-worlds-tallest/249619
Awesome!
Here is also a YouTube vid of a guy giving himself a Mohawk using a system that I found to be very interesting... and very effective. How come I did not think of this? As a professional I need to make it too complicated. This is just plain simple.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gq55wSA9_DQ
This is a page on haircut styles with info on Mohawks
http://www.latest-hairstyles.com/other/mohawk.html
And of course... The Wiki page on Mohawk Hairstyles
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mohawk_hairstyle
Clipper Tip #3
Tuesday is Clipper Tip day. Now that I am posting blog entries 5 days each week I am devoting one day each week to a clipper tip. This will be a Clipper Tip taken in numerical order straight from my clipper Tips book. Put these tips to work for you and accelerate your clipper cutting today. You can use them every day… not just Tuesdays! I have included related links as well. Surf on!
Clipper Tip #3 - Get Loopy
Loop up your cords when your clipper is not in use. Dangling cords are asking for trouble. Do not wind the cord around the body of the clipper. This can cause premature cord wear and cord failure.
Links I like:
Go here to buy my ClipperGuy Says... Get clippering clipper tips book if you can't wait for them. Have them all at once instead of 1 per week!
http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/search?search=ivan+zoot
This is my ClipperGuy site for more great clipper info
www.clipperguy.com
This is a site for a cord detangler for clippers and trimmers
http://www.ivory-s.com/products/Cord_Detangler.htm
Clipper Tip #3 - Get Loopy
Loop up your cords when your clipper is not in use. Dangling cords are asking for trouble. Do not wind the cord around the body of the clipper. This can cause premature cord wear and cord failure.
Links I like:
Go here to buy my ClipperGuy Says... Get clippering clipper tips book if you can't wait for them. Have them all at once instead of 1 per week!
http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/search?search=ivan+zoot
This is my ClipperGuy site for more great clipper info
www.clipperguy.com
This is a site for a cord detangler for clippers and trimmers
http://www.ivory-s.com/products/Cord_Detangler.htm
Monday, November 17, 2008
Guinness World records Day
Guinness World records Day
Thursday Nov. 13, 2008 was Guinness World records day. You didn’t call. You didn’t send a card. Do not feel bad. No one else did either. Except for my friend Scott. If he had not called me to wish me a happy Guinness World Records Day, as his favorite Guinness World record holder, I would not have known it was MY day. The day was celebrated throughout the world with stunts designed to break records and generate attention for the day. Below are links to Guinness related sites. Stay tuned for more info on my records as with recent confirmation of all 3 records visibility and promotion of the records is to ramp up in a big way in the coming weeks and months.
Links I like:
Here is Guinness' main site. Go break your own record
http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/
Here is the Wiki page on Guinness, learn more...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guinness_World_Records
Here is the link to Amazon to buy the current book
http://www.amazon.com/Guinness-World-Records-2008/dp/1904994199
Thursday Nov. 13, 2008 was Guinness World records day. You didn’t call. You didn’t send a card. Do not feel bad. No one else did either. Except for my friend Scott. If he had not called me to wish me a happy Guinness World Records Day, as his favorite Guinness World record holder, I would not have known it was MY day. The day was celebrated throughout the world with stunts designed to break records and generate attention for the day. Below are links to Guinness related sites. Stay tuned for more info on my records as with recent confirmation of all 3 records visibility and promotion of the records is to ramp up in a big way in the coming weeks and months.
Links I like:
Here is Guinness' main site. Go break your own record
http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/
Here is the Wiki page on Guinness, learn more...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guinness_World_Records
Here is the link to Amazon to buy the current book
http://www.amazon.com/Guinness-World-Records-2008/dp/1904994199
Friday, November 14, 2008
Business Tip - Week #2
Friday is Business Tip day. Now that I am posting blog entries 5 days each week I am devoting one day each week to a clipper cutter business tip. This will be a business tip taken in order directly from my ClipperGuy Says… Get Busy book. Put these tips to work for you and you will see dramatic increases in your business and haircut traffic. By posting them on Friday you will have the weekend to think about the tip and how you will implement it into your business. By Monday morning… look out world. Here you come. I have included related links as well.
Week #2
Dress Better
You should be dressing just slightly better than the clients you hope to attract.Dress slacks or khakis as opposed to blue jeans. You do not have to go all the way to a shirt and a tie. Only wear a t shirt if it has your shop log on it. The look of a crisp, clean barber jacket can't be beat for projecting a professional image. You can charge a bit more if you dress better. I have seen barbers in chair rental shops charging four times more than their co-workers. The bigger ticket cutters always dress better.
Nuf' said.
Links I like:
Here is the site to buy the whole ClipperGuy Says... Get Busy business tips book
http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/search?search=ivan+zoot
This is a site on dressing better
http://www.soyouwanna.com/site/syws/dressmen/dressmen.html
Here is a place to go to buy a barber jacket
http://www.bowmanbeauty.com/store/shop.mvc?page=BBS/PROD/1-15000/1350
Week #2
Dress Better
You should be dressing just slightly better than the clients you hope to attract.Dress slacks or khakis as opposed to blue jeans. You do not have to go all the way to a shirt and a tie. Only wear a t shirt if it has your shop log on it. The look of a crisp, clean barber jacket can't be beat for projecting a professional image. You can charge a bit more if you dress better. I have seen barbers in chair rental shops charging four times more than their co-workers. The bigger ticket cutters always dress better.
Nuf' said.
Links I like:
Here is the site to buy the whole ClipperGuy Says... Get Busy business tips book
http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/search?search=ivan+zoot
This is a site on dressing better
http://www.soyouwanna.com/site/syws/dressmen/dressmen.html
Here is a place to go to buy a barber jacket
http://www.bowmanbeauty.com/store/shop.mvc?page=BBS/PROD/1-15000/1350
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Trend Watch 2009
Trend Watch 2009
Bows, Buckles, Belts
One of the most interesting parts of my trip to the U.K. each year for the salon International show is ClipperGuy Trend Watch. This is me looking around. This is me trying to spot what will be the big trends in hair fashion and style in the coming year back at home. If you and I are to believe that these trends start over there, move across the pond to our eastern and western shores, and them migrate to the heartland, going over there and looking around can be very insightful. It can be inspiring too. We are just sooooo American over here… but that is a rant for another blog. What did I see? The biggest trend to pop out at me first was bows, belts and buckles. Accessorized details added to boots and handbags. Last year the trend was to skinny jeans and boots. Those boots were narrow to the calf and sleek in design. This year all the boots have stuff hanging off of them. Specifically bows and buckles. Sometimes, both. Tall boots had sets of 3 bows or 3 buckles running up the back of the calf or along the outside. Even with flats I saw many women wearing knee socks with bow detailing at the hemline. Shiny chrome, brushed nickel, and antiqued brass were some of the hardware finishes I saw. I did not see bright tone brass fittings. Handbags had similar detailing as did jackets and blouses. Lots of hardware and lots of stuff hanging on and off of the silhouettes. Is this an extension of or an evolution of the trend to military inspired clothing for civilians? When looking as tome of this stuff dangling off of some people I was quick to think of images of soldiers with all sorts or gear clipped and strapped to backpacks and body armor.
Links I like:
THis is an amazing fashion trend site
http://www.fashion-era.com/trends_2009/2009-winter-looks-key-autumn-fashion-2008.htm
Here is an example
http://www.shoezoo.us/images/naturino/nf7_buckleboot.jpg
And another image
http://www.funkylegwear.co.uk/shop/images/IMG_1223.jpg
Bows, Buckles, Belts
One of the most interesting parts of my trip to the U.K. each year for the salon International show is ClipperGuy Trend Watch. This is me looking around. This is me trying to spot what will be the big trends in hair fashion and style in the coming year back at home. If you and I are to believe that these trends start over there, move across the pond to our eastern and western shores, and them migrate to the heartland, going over there and looking around can be very insightful. It can be inspiring too. We are just sooooo American over here… but that is a rant for another blog. What did I see? The biggest trend to pop out at me first was bows, belts and buckles. Accessorized details added to boots and handbags. Last year the trend was to skinny jeans and boots. Those boots were narrow to the calf and sleek in design. This year all the boots have stuff hanging off of them. Specifically bows and buckles. Sometimes, both. Tall boots had sets of 3 bows or 3 buckles running up the back of the calf or along the outside. Even with flats I saw many women wearing knee socks with bow detailing at the hemline. Shiny chrome, brushed nickel, and antiqued brass were some of the hardware finishes I saw. I did not see bright tone brass fittings. Handbags had similar detailing as did jackets and blouses. Lots of hardware and lots of stuff hanging on and off of the silhouettes. Is this an extension of or an evolution of the trend to military inspired clothing for civilians? When looking as tome of this stuff dangling off of some people I was quick to think of images of soldiers with all sorts or gear clipped and strapped to backpacks and body armor.
Links I like:
THis is an amazing fashion trend site
http://www.fashion-era.com/trends_2009/2009-winter-looks-key-autumn-fashion-2008.htm
Here is an example
http://www.shoezoo.us/images/naturino/nf7_buckleboot.jpg
And another image
http://www.funkylegwear.co.uk/shop/images/IMG_1223.jpg
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Salon International, Room to Move
Salon International, Room to Move
We the haircutters for the Salon International show in London, U.K. were treated to a lot more stage this year. It was really great. We had room to move. We had room to cut. We were not stepping on each other on a too small platform. It was really nice. The traffic on the floor was strong. In spite of the economic woes back home the crowd here was buying. The $ is a bit stronger than it was last year… not in their favor… but business was brisk. I cut more hair this year than I have in past visits. Likely there are 2 good reasons for this. Firstly, the crew from the distributor has taken well to our line. The booth staff knows the Andis product better and better each year. They have most of the answers to most of the questions so they are relying on me less and less. This is good. This is one of the big reasons why I am there each year in the first place. This way, if I am on the platform cutting a bit more there is more room in the booth for them as well. Everyone is happy. The second reason that I cut more hair this year is that after 3 trips over there I just might have figured out how to present to this crowd. I am not the fastest to pick up on this type of stuff. I will blog more on this point in an upcoming post, but, bottom line, I have figured out how to connect with them on a proper level and they, the crowd, have responded to these changes in my presentation. Stay tuned for this learning experience.
Links I like:
This is the web site for MK the Andis artist from U.K.
http://www.mkhsa.co.uk/
This is Denman our distributor in the U.K.
http://www.denmanbrush.com/
This is the site for habia an accredidation board in U.K. for technical education
http://www.habia.org/
We the haircutters for the Salon International show in London, U.K. were treated to a lot more stage this year. It was really great. We had room to move. We had room to cut. We were not stepping on each other on a too small platform. It was really nice. The traffic on the floor was strong. In spite of the economic woes back home the crowd here was buying. The $ is a bit stronger than it was last year… not in their favor… but business was brisk. I cut more hair this year than I have in past visits. Likely there are 2 good reasons for this. Firstly, the crew from the distributor has taken well to our line. The booth staff knows the Andis product better and better each year. They have most of the answers to most of the questions so they are relying on me less and less. This is good. This is one of the big reasons why I am there each year in the first place. This way, if I am on the platform cutting a bit more there is more room in the booth for them as well. Everyone is happy. The second reason that I cut more hair this year is that after 3 trips over there I just might have figured out how to present to this crowd. I am not the fastest to pick up on this type of stuff. I will blog more on this point in an upcoming post, but, bottom line, I have figured out how to connect with them on a proper level and they, the crowd, have responded to these changes in my presentation. Stay tuned for this learning experience.
Links I like:
This is the web site for MK the Andis artist from U.K.
http://www.mkhsa.co.uk/
This is Denman our distributor in the U.K.
http://www.denmanbrush.com/
This is the site for habia an accredidation board in U.K. for technical education
http://www.habia.org/
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
ClipperTip #2
Tuesday is Clipper Tip day. Now that I am posting blog entries 5 days each week I am devoting one day each week to a clipper tip. This will be a Clipper Tip taken in numerical order straight from my clipper Tips book. Put these tips to work for you and accelerate your clipper cutting today. You can use them every day… not just Tuesdays! I have included related links as well. Surf on!
Clipper Tip #2
Drop Your Drawers
Place clippers in drawers as opposed to resting them on counters. Corded tools love to get pulled down onto the floor by broom weilding co-workers.
Styling stations with radiused edges are particularily unfriendly to clippers and other corded tools. Draping cords around corners can be a help too.
Links I like:
These are the guys who made the fixtures for my shop.
http://www.belvedere.com/
While ou are at it... buy a good broom
http://www.officialseenontv.com/onesweep.html
Go to my site for more clipper tips
http://www.clipperguy.com
Clipper Tip #2
Drop Your Drawers
Place clippers in drawers as opposed to resting them on counters. Corded tools love to get pulled down onto the floor by broom weilding co-workers.
Styling stations with radiused edges are particularily unfriendly to clippers and other corded tools. Draping cords around corners can be a help too.
Links I like:
These are the guys who made the fixtures for my shop.
http://www.belvedere.com/
While ou are at it... buy a good broom
http://www.officialseenontv.com/onesweep.html
Go to my site for more clipper tips
http://www.clipperguy.com
Monday, November 10, 2008
The ExCel tree clipper cut
The Excel Tree Clipper Cut
Off to U.K. for salon International 2008 This is my 3rd year in a row at this event. The area around the ExCel center is building up with restaurants, condos and the like. More are sure to come as we near the 2012 Olympics which will be held in London. ExCel will be one of the event sites and surely a hopping place then. It was sure hopping this weekend. The first thing I noticed as we walked up to the front steps of the convention center was the reverse flat top trees. They just spoke “clipper cutting” to me. I took a picture on the last morning. Have a look at my Myspace page to see the picture as I cannot post pics here in the blog postings. Can you see the clipper cutting in these?
Go to http://www.myspace.com/clipperguy look at the pictures there. The ExCel flat top tree pic is labeled as such.
Links I like
This is the ExCel center in London
http://www.excel-london.co.uk/
This is the Wiki page on topiary
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topiary
This is a site to buy hedge trimmers and chain saws. A new aspect of yur career?
http://mystihldealer.com/default.aspx?cmp=1182&gclid=CL7JjefX65YCFQhJagodQxuBrw
Off to U.K. for salon International 2008 This is my 3rd year in a row at this event. The area around the ExCel center is building up with restaurants, condos and the like. More are sure to come as we near the 2012 Olympics which will be held in London. ExCel will be one of the event sites and surely a hopping place then. It was sure hopping this weekend. The first thing I noticed as we walked up to the front steps of the convention center was the reverse flat top trees. They just spoke “clipper cutting” to me. I took a picture on the last morning. Have a look at my Myspace page to see the picture as I cannot post pics here in the blog postings. Can you see the clipper cutting in these?
Go to http://www.myspace.com/clipperguy look at the pictures there. The ExCel flat top tree pic is labeled as such.
Links I like
This is the ExCel center in London
http://www.excel-london.co.uk/
This is the Wiki page on topiary
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topiary
This is a site to buy hedge trimmers and chain saws. A new aspect of yur career?
http://mystihldealer.com/default.aspx?cmp=1182&gclid=CL7JjefX65YCFQhJagodQxuBrw
Friday, November 7, 2008
President Elect Obama's Clipper Cut
President Elect Obama’s Clipper Cut
Will President Obama be a fashion trend setter? There is much media coverage of his barber shop on the south side of Chicago. He maintains a simple, crisp and professional look for textured, graying hair. The look is referred to as “even all over”. It is easy to cut and easy to maintain. Best part for us, clipper cutters, is that it must be well maintained, frequently. In this way our president reminds me of my dad. My dad got his hair cut every 2 weeks on Tues. at 4:30 p.m.. Without fail. My dad never looked like he needed a haircut. He never looked like he had a haircut. For nearly 40 years he looked exactly the same. That includes when I got out of hair school and took over the task. President Obama’s look must be cut nearly every week. It will look long fast. The crispness of the front edge will go fuzzy quickly too. In many cases a cut like this is done once each week and the line-up is even freshened in between. This could make for 2 visits to the shop each week. That is high maintenance. It is still a lot less pricy than a John Edwards $400 haircut. Be on the lookout for a YouTube videro coming soon from Andis and me on how to cut the President Obama look.
Links I like
Here is a shot of Obama;'s cut looking like it is ready to hit the shop. Edge is fuzzy. Looks like he might have colored his hair in this image too.
http://current.com/items/89080486_democrats_to_open_obama_nomination_speech_to_public
This is an entire web site on hairstyles for African Americans
http://www.blackhairmedia.com/hairstyles/
This is a web article about the Andis Phat Master... Cliper of choice for the Obama look.
http://www.modernsalon.com/NewsLandingPage/tabid/67/Default.aspx?tid=2&cid=13533
Will President Obama be a fashion trend setter? There is much media coverage of his barber shop on the south side of Chicago. He maintains a simple, crisp and professional look for textured, graying hair. The look is referred to as “even all over”. It is easy to cut and easy to maintain. Best part for us, clipper cutters, is that it must be well maintained, frequently. In this way our president reminds me of my dad. My dad got his hair cut every 2 weeks on Tues. at 4:30 p.m.. Without fail. My dad never looked like he needed a haircut. He never looked like he had a haircut. For nearly 40 years he looked exactly the same. That includes when I got out of hair school and took over the task. President Obama’s look must be cut nearly every week. It will look long fast. The crispness of the front edge will go fuzzy quickly too. In many cases a cut like this is done once each week and the line-up is even freshened in between. This could make for 2 visits to the shop each week. That is high maintenance. It is still a lot less pricy than a John Edwards $400 haircut. Be on the lookout for a YouTube videro coming soon from Andis and me on how to cut the President Obama look.
Links I like
Here is a shot of Obama;'s cut looking like it is ready to hit the shop. Edge is fuzzy. Looks like he might have colored his hair in this image too.
http://current.com/items/89080486_democrats_to_open_obama_nomination_speech_to_public
This is an entire web site on hairstyles for African Americans
http://www.blackhairmedia.com/hairstyles/
This is a web article about the Andis Phat Master... Cliper of choice for the Obama look.
http://www.modernsalon.com/NewsLandingPage/tabid/67/Default.aspx?tid=2&cid=13533
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Jim and Nick's Southern Kitchen
½Jim and Nick’s Southern Kitchen
We went to dinner one night while at the show in Birmingham. We went to Jim and Nick’s Southern Kitchen. We had gone there last year. Amazing BBQ. Last time I had a rib combo. One half slab of baby backs and ½ slab of spare ribs. This was BBQ heaven. I was primed to do it all over again. But then… On the way back to our table I spied it. I was not sure if I was seeing what I thought I was seeing. I scanned the menu. There it was. They call it “Pig in the Potato Patch”. It was a huge baked potato with butter, sour cream, bacon and chives. Then dropped right down in the middle of it all was about ½ pound of smoked BBQ beef brisket slathered in sauce. This is heaven on a plate. It was so big I could not finish it. It was the single best meal I have had in a long, long time. WoW!. Go there. Eat this. Come hungry. Leave happy.
Links I like
This is the BBQ smoker I have
http://bbq.about.com/od/smokerreviews/gr/aapr072405a.htm
This is a great BBQ place in Chicago that I like
http://www.smoquebbq.com/
More BBQ info than you likely need
http://www.amazingribs.com/
We went to dinner one night while at the show in Birmingham. We went to Jim and Nick’s Southern Kitchen. We had gone there last year. Amazing BBQ. Last time I had a rib combo. One half slab of baby backs and ½ slab of spare ribs. This was BBQ heaven. I was primed to do it all over again. But then… On the way back to our table I spied it. I was not sure if I was seeing what I thought I was seeing. I scanned the menu. There it was. They call it “Pig in the Potato Patch”. It was a huge baked potato with butter, sour cream, bacon and chives. Then dropped right down in the middle of it all was about ½ pound of smoked BBQ beef brisket slathered in sauce. This is heaven on a plate. It was so big I could not finish it. It was the single best meal I have had in a long, long time. WoW!. Go there. Eat this. Come hungry. Leave happy.
Links I like
This is the BBQ smoker I have
http://bbq.about.com/od/smokerreviews/gr/aapr072405a.htm
This is a great BBQ place in Chicago that I like
http://www.smoquebbq.com/
More BBQ info than you likely need
http://www.amazingribs.com/
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Amazing Contrast
Amazing contrast
If you were on the floor at the end of Monday at the Birmingham show you would have seen something amazing. I did a great layered bob cut on a fine textured, mid length blonde girl. Shear style cutting, T-24 texture blade work and backhand layering… all the classic longer length techniques. Then, the next model was the total polar opposite. I carved/shaped an afro on an African American female model. It was pure OA F/D on a BGRc clipper. Carving, smoothing and shaping it all up with a pick in one hand and my clipper in the other. Cool stuff. This was, within about 15 minuets the ultimate world of clipper cutting. We went from one extreme of length, color and texture to the other, all with the same clipper and a selection of BG blades. It felt good to know that I could handle it all. You need to be sure your skills will let you handle anything and everything that any client walking in the door can throw at you.
If you were on the floor at the end of Monday at the Birmingham show you would have seen something amazing. I did a great layered bob cut on a fine textured, mid length blonde girl. Shear style cutting, T-24 texture blade work and backhand layering… all the classic longer length techniques. Then, the next model was the total polar opposite. I carved/shaped an afro on an African American female model. It was pure OA F/D on a BGRc clipper. Carving, smoothing and shaping it all up with a pick in one hand and my clipper in the other. Cool stuff. This was, within about 15 minuets the ultimate world of clipper cutting. We went from one extreme of length, color and texture to the other, all with the same clipper and a selection of BG blades. It felt good to know that I could handle it all. You need to be sure your skills will let you handle anything and everything that any client walking in the door can throw at you.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Clipper Tip #1
Tuesday is Clipper Tip day. Now that I am posting blog entries 5 days each week I am devoting one day each week to a clipper tip. This will be a Clipper Tip taken in numerical order straight from my clipper Tips book. Put these tips to work for you and accelerate your clipper cutting today. You can use them every day… not just Tuesdays! I have included related links as well. Surf on!
Clipper Tip #1
Hang Around - hang your clippers by the bail loops to avoid drops and damage.
This is a link to a patent for a clipper rack/holder. The inventor is a friend of mine.
http://www.patentstorm.us/patents/5924579.html
Here is a link for floor mats... Go ahead. Drop the clipper.
http://www.bowmanbeauty.com/page/BBS/CTGY/1-14000
Need a hook? Here are a few...
http://hardware.hardwarestore.com/28-447-cup-hooks.aspx
Clipper Tip #1
Hang Around - hang your clippers by the bail loops to avoid drops and damage.
This is a link to a patent for a clipper rack/holder. The inventor is a friend of mine.
http://www.patentstorm.us/patents/5924579.html
Here is a link for floor mats... Go ahead. Drop the clipper.
http://www.bowmanbeauty.com/page/BBS/CTGY/1-14000
Need a hook? Here are a few...
http://hardware.hardwarestore.com/28-447-cup-hooks.aspx
Monday, November 3, 2008
Premiere Birmingham
Premiere, Birmingham
Birmingham, AL was the center of the American Cosmetology universe for two short days. The show was well attended and we sold very well in the booth. The highlight was the Andis floor theater. I have mentioned the new “bucket theater” before. We have a set of 16 bucket stools and set up a small floor platform. We worked right on the floor as opposed to in a classroom. This kept me in the booth area all day. Close to the product and at floor level close to our customers. Feedback was strong and the models were great too. I end up cutting more hair this way and fewer mannequins. This can be a toss up for me. I like to demo mannequins for the consistency and my ability to follow formatted shtick. I like the reality of live models as well. Bottom line… Did we share good info? Did we sell great tools? Yes to both. See you in Birmingham (on the floor) next year.
Birmingham, AL was the center of the American Cosmetology universe for two short days. The show was well attended and we sold very well in the booth. The highlight was the Andis floor theater. I have mentioned the new “bucket theater” before. We have a set of 16 bucket stools and set up a small floor platform. We worked right on the floor as opposed to in a classroom. This kept me in the booth area all day. Close to the product and at floor level close to our customers. Feedback was strong and the models were great too. I end up cutting more hair this way and fewer mannequins. This can be a toss up for me. I like to demo mannequins for the consistency and my ability to follow formatted shtick. I like the reality of live models as well. Bottom line… Did we share good info? Did we sell great tools? Yes to both. See you in Birmingham (on the floor) next year.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Read This
Read This
The Ten Commandments for Business Failure
Donald R. Keough
I read this book. Maybe you should too. But be warned. Read this one at your own risk. This one can be a bit disturbing. You might see yourself or your company in these pages. The good news is there is time to make good decisions and make changes. The good news is that you also might se things you are not doing and that is a sign that you and your business are on the right track. Happy reading and continued success.
The Ten Commandments for Business Failure
Donald R. Keough
I read this book. Maybe you should too. But be warned. Read this one at your own risk. This one can be a bit disturbing. You might see yourself or your company in these pages. The good news is there is time to make good decisions and make changes. The good news is that you also might se things you are not doing and that is a sign that you and your business are on the right track. Happy reading and continued success.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Ear pics
Ear Pictures
A beauty industry magazine saw and liked my YouTube vid about trimming ear areas. They wanted to run an article on it. How cool is that? An article being written about a video we did. Anyway, they wanted pictures to support the text. There I was at Birmingham shooting ear trimming pictures. Once I sent them to the publicist she emailed me back saying the mag wanted “text to go with the pictures”. Apparently they did not want to do an article. They wanted ME to do an article. Oh, well, no worries. At least the media wants something from me. I am not complaining. Most haircutters are calling the media begging. The media is calling me. I prefer it that way. So does Andis.
A beauty industry magazine saw and liked my YouTube vid about trimming ear areas. They wanted to run an article on it. How cool is that? An article being written about a video we did. Anyway, they wanted pictures to support the text. There I was at Birmingham shooting ear trimming pictures. Once I sent them to the publicist she emailed me back saying the mag wanted “text to go with the pictures”. Apparently they did not want to do an article. They wanted ME to do an article. Oh, well, no worries. At least the media wants something from me. I am not complaining. Most haircutters are calling the media begging. The media is calling me. I prefer it that way. So does Andis.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Printed Technicals
Printed Technicals
Have I sent you a printed technical via email? I am sure sending a lot of them these days. I mention the availability of these handy printed educational support tools at all my classes and shows. Sometimes the one I mention is the one for the technique I am sharing. Other times the sheets are mentioned in the context of an answer to a question from an audience member. Other times I am just offering them up because I know just how much clipper cutters like them. I know they are a big help to many. I have created quite a few of them and I am happy to email them to any who ask. The collection includes, but is not limited to flat topping, fading, revolution cutting and many more. If there is a clipper cutting concept that you want help with just let me know. I can create a technical for you for any educational need. We are happy to offer them up.
Have I sent you a printed technical via email? I am sure sending a lot of them these days. I mention the availability of these handy printed educational support tools at all my classes and shows. Sometimes the one I mention is the one for the technique I am sharing. Other times the sheets are mentioned in the context of an answer to a question from an audience member. Other times I am just offering them up because I know just how much clipper cutters like them. I know they are a big help to many. I have created quite a few of them and I am happy to email them to any who ask. The collection includes, but is not limited to flat topping, fading, revolution cutting and many more. If there is a clipper cutting concept that you want help with just let me know. I can create a technical for you for any educational need. We are happy to offer them up.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
The T-24 blade
T-24 blade
Have you ever used an Andis T-24 Special Texturizing blade. This is an amazing tool. You can do things with this blade that you did not know you could do with a clipper. This amazing blade fits on all Andis BG series detachable blade clippers. Today that group includes, BGRc, Ceramic Advanced, Headlight, Excel 1 speed, Excel 2 speed, BGR+, MGX. This is a 5 tooth texture tool. There are 5 teeth on the inside cutting blade. With a rear (lower) blade like a 1 clipper blade you have wide, deep teeth and long extended teeth. This allows for some unique custom control of the cutting action. The Andis T-24 can be used like a scissors, a blending shear or even a razor. There is no limit to the amazing things you can do with this blade.
A few of my favorite tricks include:
Razor texturizing - creating soft, broken wispy effects in mid length and longer hair.
Transition blending - Used like a 44/20 blender to take out weight and blend off lines, easily.
Thinning/Debulking - A great way to take down volume and fullness in thick heavy hair.
Razor cutting. Length can be removed with amazing texture and movement.
I want you to play with a T-24 blade. Do you have an Andis detachable blade clipper? Shoot me an email. Tell me which Andis detachable blade clipper you have and why you like it. I will send the first 24 people who respond to this request a FREE Andis T-24 blade to try, enjoy and keep as my gift. I want to hear from you. I want to see the amazing styles you can create with this blade. I posted this offer last week. So far I have sent out 6 of the 24 blades. Did you get yours yet?
Have you ever used an Andis T-24 Special Texturizing blade. This is an amazing tool. You can do things with this blade that you did not know you could do with a clipper. This amazing blade fits on all Andis BG series detachable blade clippers. Today that group includes, BGRc, Ceramic Advanced, Headlight, Excel 1 speed, Excel 2 speed, BGR+, MGX. This is a 5 tooth texture tool. There are 5 teeth on the inside cutting blade. With a rear (lower) blade like a 1 clipper blade you have wide, deep teeth and long extended teeth. This allows for some unique custom control of the cutting action. The Andis T-24 can be used like a scissors, a blending shear or even a razor. There is no limit to the amazing things you can do with this blade.
A few of my favorite tricks include:
Razor texturizing - creating soft, broken wispy effects in mid length and longer hair.
Transition blending - Used like a 44/20 blender to take out weight and blend off lines, easily.
Thinning/Debulking - A great way to take down volume and fullness in thick heavy hair.
Razor cutting. Length can be removed with amazing texture and movement.
I want you to play with a T-24 blade. Do you have an Andis detachable blade clipper? Shoot me an email. Tell me which Andis detachable blade clipper you have and why you like it. I will send the first 24 people who respond to this request a FREE Andis T-24 blade to try, enjoy and keep as my gift. I want to hear from you. I want to see the amazing styles you can create with this blade. I posted this offer last week. So far I have sent out 6 of the 24 blades. Did you get yours yet?
Monday, October 27, 2008
Podcasting
Podcasts
I subscribed to 2 great podcasts this week. Then I went back and downloaded a slew of “back issues”, so to speak, the ones on-line that I missed. You should get these too. The Quick and Dirty Tips series… The podcasts for salespeople and the one for public speakers are both ideally suited to anyone who is in sales or speaks in front of others. Working in the beauty industry demands that you are doing both all the time. Podcasts are a great way to listen on the go. Like books on tape, but in short snippets. Perfect for those of us who are hungry for information but short on time and attention.
I subscribed to 2 great podcasts this week. Then I went back and downloaded a slew of “back issues”, so to speak, the ones on-line that I missed. You should get these too. The Quick and Dirty Tips series… The podcasts for salespeople and the one for public speakers are both ideally suited to anyone who is in sales or speaks in front of others. Working in the beauty industry demands that you are doing both all the time. Podcasts are a great way to listen on the go. Like books on tape, but in short snippets. Perfect for those of us who are hungry for information but short on time and attention.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Brio Academy newsletter
Brio Academy Newsletter
I made the cover. I made page 2. I do not think I have ever had 4 pics in one publication before. Way cool. This is a great group of schools in CT. It was an honor to be invited in to present classes and share Andis information. I am looking forward to my next visit.
Thank you to all my friends at Brio Academy.
I made the cover. I made page 2. I do not think I have ever had 4 pics in one publication before. Way cool. This is a great group of schools in CT. It was an honor to be invited in to present classes and share Andis information. I am looking forward to my next visit.
Thank you to all my friends at Brio Academy.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Shout Out
Shout out
To all my new friends at Fade Barbershop & Lounge
615 Washington Ave.
Miami Beach, FL
Manager Ladonna Echols
Gvan Brown - Cuts by the pound
Manolo Rivera - Bori
Luis Bredeson - Nut Da Barber
Nice to meet you all. Nice to have the chance to share some of my clipper cutting passion with like-minded barbers. This is a new shop (less than 1 year old). Barbering up front, lounge in the middle, patio out back. Right on Washington Street in classic South Beach, FL. Go there to get a cut. Visit with the crew. When I shared my 4 min fade idea they were pumped up to try it out immediately. Get in there and get faded… tell ‘em Ivan sent you.
To all my new friends at Fade Barbershop & Lounge
615 Washington Ave.
Miami Beach, FL
Manager Ladonna Echols
Gvan Brown - Cuts by the pound
Manolo Rivera - Bori
Luis Bredeson - Nut Da Barber
Nice to meet you all. Nice to have the chance to share some of my clipper cutting passion with like-minded barbers. This is a new shop (less than 1 year old). Barbering up front, lounge in the middle, patio out back. Right on Washington Street in classic South Beach, FL. Go there to get a cut. Visit with the crew. When I shared my 4 min fade idea they were pumped up to try it out immediately. Get in there and get faded… tell ‘em Ivan sent you.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Read This
Read This
The Carrot principle
Adrian Gostick, Chester Elton
Wow! What a powerful book. There is gold in here for businesses and managers. If you manage anyone you need to read this… Then you need to live this. Simple to read. Easy to understand. Sometimes painful to realize the truths in a book like this. But it is never too late to implement this type if information and change your world, the world of your employees and the worlds of your customers. Solid stuff. Highly recommended.
The Carrot principle
Adrian Gostick, Chester Elton
Wow! What a powerful book. There is gold in here for businesses and managers. If you manage anyone you need to read this… Then you need to live this. Simple to read. Easy to understand. Sometimes painful to realize the truths in a book like this. But it is never too late to implement this type if information and change your world, the world of your employees and the worlds of your customers. Solid stuff. Highly recommended.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
The Amazing Andis Clipper Guard Chart
The Wildly famous clipper guard chart
One of the most popular videos we have posted on YouTube is a video on proper use of clipper guards. In the video I offer up a copy of a handy clipper guard conversion and cross reference chart. If you do not know all the sizes, the guards, the blades, inches, millimeters and all that stuff… this is the chart for you. The response has been amazing. I am emailing over dozens of these charts to interested and eager clipper cutters every week. If you want one shoot me an email request at expert@andisco.com . I will be happy to send you one too.
One of the most popular videos we have posted on YouTube is a video on proper use of clipper guards. In the video I offer up a copy of a handy clipper guard conversion and cross reference chart. If you do not know all the sizes, the guards, the blades, inches, millimeters and all that stuff… this is the chart for you. The response has been amazing. I am emailing over dozens of these charts to interested and eager clipper cutters every week. If you want one shoot me an email request at expert@andisco.com . I will be happy to send you one too.
Monday, October 20, 2008
The Guinness World Record Buckle
The Guinness World record Belt Buckle
I got my new buckle. In 1998 when I broke the world haircutting records for the first time I had ordered a huge gold and silver belt buckle as a trophy and my souvenir to myself to recognize the accomplishment. Here we are in 2008 and I have done it again. Yes, both. I have broken the records and I have ordered another buckle. This one is a bit bigger, a bit gaudier, a bit tackier and was a bit more expensive. It looks great and as soon as it was in I went out to pick it up. I am now wearing it to shows and the response has been fun. People gawk. People laugh, people ask why… and when I explain, people think it is very cool… or, at least, that is what they tell me. I have a pic of me and the buckle posted on my myspace page. Go there to have a look myspace.com/clipperguy
I got my new buckle. In 1998 when I broke the world haircutting records for the first time I had ordered a huge gold and silver belt buckle as a trophy and my souvenir to myself to recognize the accomplishment. Here we are in 2008 and I have done it again. Yes, both. I have broken the records and I have ordered another buckle. This one is a bit bigger, a bit gaudier, a bit tackier and was a bit more expensive. It looks great and as soon as it was in I went out to pick it up. I am now wearing it to shows and the response has been fun. People gawk. People laugh, people ask why… and when I explain, people think it is very cool… or, at least, that is what they tell me. I have a pic of me and the buckle posted on my myspace page. Go there to have a look myspace.com/clipperguy
Friday, October 17, 2008
Career Book
Career Book
I met the author and bought a copy of a great little book. If you are considering a career in the beauty business or are already in the business and interested in moving up this book is a great resource. Industry In:Site, 101 Top Beauty Careers By C. Jeanine Fulton. Was fun to read and reminded me of all the great choices out there. I was amazed as well as how many of the jobs I have had and how many others are interesting to me. Your next job is in here.
I met the author and bought a copy of a great little book. If you are considering a career in the beauty business or are already in the business and interested in moving up this book is a great resource. Industry In:Site, 101 Top Beauty Careers By C. Jeanine Fulton. Was fun to read and reminded me of all the great choices out there. I was amazed as well as how many of the jobs I have had and how many others are interesting to me. Your next job is in here.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
The Next Big Haircut
The next short haircut
The “Poxie”
It is a Posh Spice Pixie cut… so they call it the “Poxie” Huh? Are you kidding? I think they think they are serious. I was one of the first in our industry to blog about the Pob… The PoshSpice bob that, soon after, took our business by storm. It is just amazing how many of those (or variations thereof) you see out there. By the time you see this many, the trend is no longer hot and many of us have moved on.
The Poxie will be fun to cut. It is sooooo easy. Much of it makes for a great clipper cut as most short cuts do. It is a 1.5 inch overall layer cut with short, piecy bangs. W can all do this. Just as always is the case… this will not look good or work well on everyone… But that will not stop many form asking for it, many others from cutting it on them or many from looking just a bit goofy trying to pull it off. But, for those with the hair, the facial features and the look to carry it this will work very well. Happy “Poxieing” to all!
P.S. Get an Andis T-24 texture blade to make the most of this short, funky, spunky cut. This is the secret tool to make it happen. The first 24 people to send me an email I will send you a FREE T-24 clipper blade to help you get clippering.
The “Poxie”
It is a Posh Spice Pixie cut… so they call it the “Poxie” Huh? Are you kidding? I think they think they are serious. I was one of the first in our industry to blog about the Pob… The PoshSpice bob that, soon after, took our business by storm. It is just amazing how many of those (or variations thereof) you see out there. By the time you see this many, the trend is no longer hot and many of us have moved on.
The Poxie will be fun to cut. It is sooooo easy. Much of it makes for a great clipper cut as most short cuts do. It is a 1.5 inch overall layer cut with short, piecy bangs. W can all do this. Just as always is the case… this will not look good or work well on everyone… But that will not stop many form asking for it, many others from cutting it on them or many from looking just a bit goofy trying to pull it off. But, for those with the hair, the facial features and the look to carry it this will work very well. Happy “Poxieing” to all!
P.S. Get an Andis T-24 texture blade to make the most of this short, funky, spunky cut. This is the secret tool to make it happen. The first 24 people to send me an email I will send you a FREE T-24 clipper blade to help you get clippering.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Read This
Read this
Sway, The Irresistible Pull of Irrational Behavior
I got this from the library. I read it. You should read it too. Good book. Interesting ideas. Good stuff to think about. The title says it all. Why we do some of the things we do event though we really know we should not do them.
Sway, The Irresistible Pull of Irrational Behavior
I got this from the library. I read it. You should read it too. Good book. Interesting ideas. Good stuff to think about. The title says it all. Why we do some of the things we do event though we really know we should not do them.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Permiere, Columbus, OH
Premiere Mid-America, Columbus, OH
So far, this is to be considered the best of the fall 2008 shows I have worked. Attendance was strong despite the challenges to our economy… not the hair economy… that is going strong… It is just the $4/gallon gas that worries me about it keeping the haircutters away. They came out in droves to see us. We had 7 SRO classes. I will be asking Premiere for a bigger room for 2009. Te best seller fo the event, far and away was the MLX Improved Master Clipper. Always an Andis fave… We ran out and started taking $ and orders to ship, post-show.
So far, this is to be considered the best of the fall 2008 shows I have worked. Attendance was strong despite the challenges to our economy… not the hair economy… that is going strong… It is just the $4/gallon gas that worries me about it keeping the haircutters away. They came out in droves to see us. We had 7 SRO classes. I will be asking Premiere for a bigger room for 2009. Te best seller fo the event, far and away was the MLX Improved Master Clipper. Always an Andis fave… We ran out and started taking $ and orders to ship, post-show.
Monday, October 13, 2008
The 1 Hour Class
The 1 hour class
I had a busy day of fast classes. I am really digging the 1 hour class. At most shows the breakout classrooms are 1-hour long. In cases where the state is in a license renewal year the classes are almost always 2 hours long. At Mid-America this year the classes were all 1 hour. By the time I am done with my intro and by the time I have covered care & maint. of clippers I have just about 20 min for REAL technical content. Perfect. These classes were fast and fun. I had SRO crowds in every one. With just 1 hour of info many attendees cam beck for more and most brought a friend back to see what they missed. I had 7 classes over the 2 days. I shared 7 different, unique technical concepts over the days. One of the keys is that I was selling hard and fast the entire way through. In each class I told them what classes they had missed and what classes they had yet to come. Be on the lookout for more show schedules with more one hour classes. I am planning to run with this format ‘cuz it works.
I had a busy day of fast classes. I am really digging the 1 hour class. At most shows the breakout classrooms are 1-hour long. In cases where the state is in a license renewal year the classes are almost always 2 hours long. At Mid-America this year the classes were all 1 hour. By the time I am done with my intro and by the time I have covered care & maint. of clippers I have just about 20 min for REAL technical content. Perfect. These classes were fast and fun. I had SRO crowds in every one. With just 1 hour of info many attendees cam beck for more and most brought a friend back to see what they missed. I had 7 classes over the 2 days. I shared 7 different, unique technical concepts over the days. One of the keys is that I was selling hard and fast the entire way through. In each class I told them what classes they had missed and what classes they had yet to come. Be on the lookout for more show schedules with more one hour classes. I am planning to run with this format ‘cuz it works.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Radio on Video
Radio on Video
They had invited me to be on the radio. They asked me to bring my tools. I asked, why? They wanted me to do a haircut on the radio. Think about that. Most haircutters who do shows and such do haircuts on video or television. I was being asked to do a haircut on radio. How cool is that. My haircutting abilities have transcended the need for visual representation. Just the sound was to be enough. They did video tape me on the radio as well. The live radio piece did play well and for listeners, seeing was not needed. Later they have posted the video on YouTube. The link is below. Have a look at what we believe to be the first radio haircut to be on video… or something like that.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Z3rak5y-Ic
They had invited me to be on the radio. They asked me to bring my tools. I asked, why? They wanted me to do a haircut on the radio. Think about that. Most haircutters who do shows and such do haircuts on video or television. I was being asked to do a haircut on radio. How cool is that. My haircutting abilities have transcended the need for visual representation. Just the sound was to be enough. They did video tape me on the radio as well. The live radio piece did play well and for listeners, seeing was not needed. Later they have posted the video on YouTube. The link is below. Have a look at what we believe to be the first radio haircut to be on video… or something like that.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Z3rak5y-Ic
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
On the air
On the air
I went downtown to the Tribune tower to do the spot on WGN radio. That was way fun. I did a haircut live on the radio. Some haircutters do video. I have transcended the need for visuals. I can cut hair on the radio. I am told it worked well. Just the sound alone was able to convey the message. Brian Noonan was the on-air host for the show and he was genuinely interested in the records and impressed with the feat(s). he gets his hair cut from a regular guy barber and was very much into the idea of a good haircut delivered quickly.
I went downtown to the Tribune tower to do the spot on WGN radio. That was way fun. I did a haircut live on the radio. Some haircutters do video. I have transcended the need for visuals. I can cut hair on the radio. I am told it worked well. Just the sound alone was able to convey the message. Brian Noonan was the on-air host for the show and he was genuinely interested in the records and impressed with the feat(s). he gets his hair cut from a regular guy barber and was very much into the idea of a good haircut delivered quickly.
Monday, October 6, 2008
The 4 Min. Fade in Schaumburg, IL
The 4 min fade @ Schaumburg, IL
The recent show in Schaumburg, IL was a success in the classrooms. We had good models and of course the mannequins were up to the high standards we expect. The best of the classes and demos was the Andis 4 min. Fade program. We cut it on a mannequin to show the concept. Then we cut it on a live client to put it into real application. The head was perfect for the demo. The Improved master clipper was, as always the tool of choice for this kind of work. Many learned much on this demo. I will send you the technical print out of the 4 min fade just for the asking. Send an email if you want a copy of it. You have just got to try this idea. Save time, cut better hair. Get better results. Make more money. Aren’t those the goals?
The recent show in Schaumburg, IL was a success in the classrooms. We had good models and of course the mannequins were up to the high standards we expect. The best of the classes and demos was the Andis 4 min. Fade program. We cut it on a mannequin to show the concept. Then we cut it on a live client to put it into real application. The head was perfect for the demo. The Improved master clipper was, as always the tool of choice for this kind of work. Many learned much on this demo. I will send you the technical print out of the 4 min fade just for the asking. Send an email if you want a copy of it. You have just got to try this idea. Save time, cut better hair. Get better results. Make more money. Aren’t those the goals?
Friday, October 3, 2008
Show time again
Show time again
Next up on my show calendar is the Premiere Show, Birmingham, AL. Next weekend. Be there. October 12, 13, 2008. At the convention center, downtown. We will not be in a classroom. Instead we will be debuting a new mini theatre right on the show floor. 16 seats. Up close to the cutting action. You can see. You can hear. You can ask questions on the spot. This will be fun. As usual, great deals on the latest and greatest from Andis will be there for you. Get what you want and need to rock the clipper world. From tools to techniques. Hardware and the software to make it all make more money for you.
Next up on my show calendar is the Premiere Show, Birmingham, AL. Next weekend. Be there. October 12, 13, 2008. At the convention center, downtown. We will not be in a classroom. Instead we will be debuting a new mini theatre right on the show floor. 16 seats. Up close to the cutting action. You can see. You can hear. You can ask questions on the spot. This will be fun. As usual, great deals on the latest and greatest from Andis will be there for you. Get what you want and need to rock the clipper world. From tools to techniques. Hardware and the software to make it all make more money for you.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Technology avail. Today
Technology available
The tools and opportunities available to you to grow your business blow my mind. Who would have thought just a few years ago that so much would be out there to just run with… just a few clicks away? And all for FREE! Do you want a TV commercial to promote your shop? I would have loved that back when I had my shop… but there was no way I had that kind of marketing budget. How about FREE? YouTube lets you have all that and more for zero $. How about a web site? Web sites were in their infancy when I had my shop. http://www.squidoo.com lets you build your own web site for FREE. How much? FREE! Networking with other professionals and friends, promoting yourself and reaching out the the entire world are all at your fingertips with today’s social networking sites and tools. Myspace and Facebook open up a world of business possibilities. Are you there? What are you missing out on? What are you making them most of? I want to hear. Email me Tell me your stories of successful utilization of these technologies.
The tools and opportunities available to you to grow your business blow my mind. Who would have thought just a few years ago that so much would be out there to just run with… just a few clicks away? And all for FREE! Do you want a TV commercial to promote your shop? I would have loved that back when I had my shop… but there was no way I had that kind of marketing budget. How about FREE? YouTube lets you have all that and more for zero $. How about a web site? Web sites were in their infancy when I had my shop. http://www.squidoo.com lets you build your own web site for FREE. How much? FREE! Networking with other professionals and friends, promoting yourself and reaching out the the entire world are all at your fingertips with today’s social networking sites and tools. Myspace and Facebook open up a world of business possibilities. Are you there? What are you missing out on? What are you making them most of? I want to hear. Email me Tell me your stories of successful utilization of these technologies.
Technology avail. Today
Technology available
The tools and opportunities available to you to grow your business blow my mind. Who would have thought just a few years ago that so much would be out there to just run with… just a few clicks away? And all for FREE! Do you want a TV commercial to promote your shop? I would have loved that back when I had my shop… but there was no way I had that kind of marketing budget. How about FREE? YouTube lets you have all that and more for zero $. How about a web site? Web sites were in their infancy when I had my shop. www.squidoo.com lets you build your own web site for FREE. How much? FREE! Networking with other professionals and friends, promoting yourself and reaching out the the entire world are all at your fingertips with today’s social networking sites and tools. Myspace and Facebook open up a world of business possibilities. Are you there? What are you missing out on? What are you making them most of? I want to hear. Email me Tell me your stories of successful utilization of these technologies.
The tools and opportunities available to you to grow your business blow my mind. Who would have thought just a few years ago that so much would be out there to just run with… just a few clicks away? And all for FREE! Do you want a TV commercial to promote your shop? I would have loved that back when I had my shop… but there was no way I had that kind of marketing budget. How about FREE? YouTube lets you have all that and more for zero $. How about a web site? Web sites were in their infancy when I had my shop. www.squidoo.com lets you build your own web site for FREE. How much? FREE! Networking with other professionals and friends, promoting yourself and reaching out the the entire world are all at your fingertips with today’s social networking sites and tools. Myspace and Facebook open up a world of business possibilities. Are you there? What are you missing out on? What are you making them most of? I want to hear. Email me Tell me your stories of successful utilization of these technologies.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Slam Dunkin'
Phat Master vs Attachment combs
The most common question that is asked of me in reference to the phat master is "does it work better than using my guards (attachment combs)?". My answer is if you want to save time and make more money, yes! The time that is required for you to switch back and forth is dramatically reduced. This means that you will have the ability to save time on each haircut, and have more time to service more customers. Also the quality of the blades on the phat master are much more durable, reliable, and versatile than attachment combs. With all these factors the phatmaster vs attachment comb debate is settled. Phatmaster wins in every category!!!!!
The most common question that is asked of me in reference to the phat master is "does it work better than using my guards (attachment combs)?". My answer is if you want to save time and make more money, yes! The time that is required for you to switch back and forth is dramatically reduced. This means that you will have the ability to save time on each haircut, and have more time to service more customers. Also the quality of the blades on the phat master are much more durable, reliable, and versatile than attachment combs. With all these factors the phatmaster vs attachment comb debate is settled. Phatmaster wins in every category!!!!!
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
This week on YouTube
This week on YouTube
Here is the link to the video you have been asking for:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Vrxa6UlQ24
This is the flat top cutting video. Most requested, highly sought after, eyeryone wants to see it. This is the big referral, business builder clipper cut. Watch. Learn. Practice. Master..
Here is the link to the video you have been asking for:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Vrxa6UlQ24
This is the flat top cutting video. Most requested, highly sought after, eyeryone wants to see it. This is the big referral, business builder clipper cut. Watch. Learn. Practice. Master..
Monday, September 29, 2008
My Space
Let’s be friends. If you have a Myspace account send me a friend request. Search for my profile using either my name or my profile name clipperguy. This is a great way to network with other beauty industry professionals. I will be using Mysapce bulletins to share exciting stuff with all my friends. Things like my show schedule, new item information, info on educator opportunities, etc.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Betty's and Nick's
Have you ever been to a hair factory? No, not a factory where they make hair. A factory where they cut it off. I visited an amazing place. Betty’s and Nick’s in Chicago. Wow. These places are BUSY. They cut a LOT of hair. If you live in even a small city and you have dreams of a high volume hair cutting business you need to go on a field trip here. There is a lot to learn. I am not crazy about the prices. They call themselves “the home of the $5 haircut”. You could argue, it is no big trick to be busy at this price. But the help makes money and they are up to 6 shops, all busy. Check them out and learn.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
haircutsformen.org
Haircuts for men.org
Have you been to this web site yet? If not, go. This is a great site for those passionate about cutting men’s hair. A few of my favorite parts of the site are the shop listings and the conversation forums. If you know of a great shop, list it here. If you own or work in a great shop, list it here. If you want haircut advice, or like giving haircut advice go to the forums. All are welcome. There is a nice, comfortable, no-nonsense vibe here. The owners and posters are straight shooters when it comes to suggestions and ideas for your hair. I have visited several shops listed and have not had a bad haircut experience with any of them.
Have you been to this web site yet? If not, go. This is a great site for those passionate about cutting men’s hair. A few of my favorite parts of the site are the shop listings and the conversation forums. If you know of a great shop, list it here. If you own or work in a great shop, list it here. If you want haircut advice, or like giving haircut advice go to the forums. All are welcome. There is a nice, comfortable, no-nonsense vibe here. The owners and posters are straight shooters when it comes to suggestions and ideas for your hair. I have visited several shops listed and have not had a bad haircut experience with any of them.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Clipper on EBay
Be on the lookout. Keep an eye on ebay. Actually, just stay tuned here. Andis and I will be putting one of the clippers from the Guinness World haircutting event up for auction on ebay. I will autograph it. We will auction it off with all the proceeds going to the Children with Hair Loss charity that got the $ from the world record event. This will be a valuable collectable. Talk about a great conversation piece on the wall in your shop… Imagine the publicity you would get if you sent out a press release that your shop bought it and made the donation to charity… Imagine the awesome mojo radiating off of this tool… How fast could you cut with it? Would you event want to?
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Andis Clipper Combs
Everyone who knows me knows how passionate I am about Andis clipper combs. You just can’t clipper cut well without one. I used more than a few for my recent breaking of the Guinness world haircutting records. I have a whole box of them left over from the event. Would you like one? Autographed? Send me an email. Tell me why Andis clippers are your clipper of choice. Tell me what Andis clipper is your favorite. Tell me why. I will publish some of the emails here in the blog and I will send you a FREE comb that I used on a world record haircut. How cool is that?
Monday, September 22, 2008
The Andis T-Liner
This tool (23990) has now risen to the top of my list of Ivan’s favorite Andis trimmer. The NEW blade design for the Pivot motor series trimmers just rocks. All the tools have received this new upgrade. T-Liner and PTX (00000) as well as the Povit Pro trimmer (23475) and the pivot Pro trimmers in both the silver/grey combo pack (23965) and the upcoming pink Pro Duette combo (00000) all are in on the upgrade.
The trimmer features a standard upper (cutter) blade. The big news is in the lower (comb) blade. Have a look at one. The Lower features a unique tooth configuration and pattern. The teeth are wider and deeper. As a result, the tools feeds super fast. I am sure you can imagine why I like this. I have used the new blades for a while. I liked them right away when we began testing them. I liked them even more when the decision was made that the T-Liner would be the trimmer of choice for my world record break attempt. You can line clean and crisp. You can clean/shave nice and smooth. You can even do a bit more over-comb work as a result of the increased feed capabilities of the teeth.
You just have to try these blades. You can put a new blade on an older pivot trimmer or just pick up a new one. Either way, you can rock with this new tool.
The trimmer features a standard upper (cutter) blade. The big news is in the lower (comb) blade. Have a look at one. The Lower features a unique tooth configuration and pattern. The teeth are wider and deeper. As a result, the tools feeds super fast. I am sure you can imagine why I like this. I have used the new blades for a while. I liked them right away when we began testing them. I liked them even more when the decision was made that the T-Liner would be the trimmer of choice for my world record break attempt. You can line clean and crisp. You can clean/shave nice and smooth. You can even do a bit more over-comb work as a result of the increased feed capabilities of the teeth.
You just have to try these blades. You can put a new blade on an older pivot trimmer or just pick up a new one. Either way, you can rock with this new tool.
Friday, September 19, 2008
On the phone with Guinness
Just the fax. That is all they needed from me to close the books on my records in the books. Guinness confirmed that they have all my materials and they will process my paperwork. This can take as long as 8 weeks. We are just to wait for word. In the mean time… anyone want to race me?
Thursday, September 18, 2008
The Rooster's crew
The team at Rooster’s is really something to crow about. The World record event was held at Rooster’s Men’s Grooming Center in Austin, TX. Joe the owner agreed to host the event. Aaron , Mark and the office team helped pull much of the event together. John, Kathy and many others made it all flow smoothly. We could not have picked a better host shop or a better team to work with. If you want a great haircut go to a Rooster’s near you (there are 24 of then so far). If you want to own a great business, get yourself a Roosters franchise.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
American Haircuts
While in town for the Bronner Bros. show last month I paid a visit to American Haircuts in Roswell, GA. This is the kind of place I want to go to get my haircut. This is the kind of place you want to go to get your hair cut. This is the kind of place I want to own when I am ready to own a place again and not travel all over the place to cut hair.
American Haircuts is clean, neat and modern. There is no gimmicky theme. The theme here is plain old classic haircutting. The owners cut hair in the first 2 chairs, as it should be. The staff ranges from young guys to veteran cosmetologists who are all passionate and talented men’s haircutters.
The retail area is clean, neat and well stocked. It is not overstuffed with flavor-of-the-minute things that you do not want, just good things for you and your hair.
The guys who one the place are building a second location in the city on a nice corner in a hopping area. I am sure they will find great success there as well.
Most importantly, the haircut was rock-solid good. That is why you would go there, isn’t it?
American Haircuts is clean, neat and modern. There is no gimmicky theme. The theme here is plain old classic haircutting. The owners cut hair in the first 2 chairs, as it should be. The staff ranges from young guys to veteran cosmetologists who are all passionate and talented men’s haircutters.
The retail area is clean, neat and well stocked. It is not overstuffed with flavor-of-the-minute things that you do not want, just good things for you and your hair.
The guys who one the place are building a second location in the city on a nice corner in a hopping area. I am sure they will find great success there as well.
Most importantly, the haircut was rock-solid good. That is why you would go there, isn’t it?
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
I am a rock star!
“I am a rock star”. No, I did not say that. Someone else said it about me. Kinda cool, though. The article about the world record that appeared in the Chicago Tribune contained that quote. The comment was made that you do not typically see and hear people cheering for a haircut. They were whooping and hollering and clapping and cheering for me at the event. If rock star is the title, I will accept. I think the exact words were that I am the closest thing we have to a rock star in our industry. Just what I need to hear. Stuff like that will go straight to my head. Good thing my wife makes me take out the garbage when I get home. Back down to earth in a hurry.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Sue Hinkler
An old friend. No, not an old friend, but a friend I have had for what seems like a long time in this business… But it can’t be that long since we are not that old, right?
Sue is a talented and passionate hairdresser. She is a good friend and an asset to our industry.
It was easy to pick here as a witness for the Guinness event. I am very glad I did. Her energy helped to carry the day and provided us all with enthusiasm and just the jolt we needed on more than a few occasions over the 24 hours. I could not have achieved the success we did without her.
Sue is a talented and passionate hairdresser. She is a good friend and an asset to our industry.
It was easy to pick here as a witness for the Guinness event. I am very glad I did. Her energy helped to carry the day and provided us all with enthusiasm and just the jolt we needed on more than a few occasions over the 24 hours. I could not have achieved the success we did without her.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Children with Hair Loss
Regina Villemure is the founder of a great organization. Children with hair loss is a charity that provides wigs and hairpieces for children with hair loss. All is done at no charge. We made Regina’s charity the beneficiary of the funds raised from the world record event. Andis was happy to link up with her and her group for this. Regina solicited donations for sponsoring her to stay up with me for the full 24 hours. She told me, if you will stay up and cut hair for 24 hours for me and my kids, then I will stay up with you. There she was… just 6 or 7 feet away from me for the entire 24 hours. She had a good grip on the broom. Some of the time the broom was there for sweeping. Some of the time she used it to stay upright. Bottom line. Regina was there with me the whole way. From start to finish. Thank you Regina. Regina is another example of how I could not have done this alone, set NEW world records.. It takes a team. I was very glad Regina was on our team. You should be on her team. Please contact her to learn how you can make a donation to her cause or get involved in working with her and the great things she and Children with Hair Loss does. http://www.childrenwithhairloss.us
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Andis Live on the Radio
I have been invited to be live on WGN radio in Chicago. Sat. Sept. 13 at 4 a.m. I know it is early. You can hear me live discussing the world records and all the fun we had. Another great Andis promotional opportunity.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
My Show Schedule
My show schedule
Going forward I will be posting my upcoming show appearances here in blog entries. Keep checking here to stay up to date on where to see me and Andis live on stage. Next up is Chicago, IL. The Victory beauty Systems event with BSG at the Renaissance Conv. Cntr. In Schaumburg, IL. September 14 and 15, 2008
Going forward I will be posting my upcoming show appearances here in blog entries. Keep checking here to stay up to date on where to see me and Andis live on stage. Next up is Chicago, IL. The Victory beauty Systems event with BSG at the Renaissance Conv. Cntr. In Schaumburg, IL. September 14 and 15, 2008
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
I'm Currently Reading....
The Back of the Napkin, Solving problems and selling ideas with pictures
This is a fun little book that teaches new ways of seeing and new ways of communicating. Fun to read and very useful for presenters and anyone who is selling anything, ideas, etc. Time to hit the library. I do most of my reading from library books. Once in a while I will then go out and purchase the book. But this is not very often. I do keep a list of what I have read so that, down the road if I want a book again I have the title, author and dewy decimal number. Makes finding it again a snap.
This is a fun little book that teaches new ways of seeing and new ways of communicating. Fun to read and very useful for presenters and anyone who is selling anything, ideas, etc. Time to hit the library. I do most of my reading from library books. Once in a while I will then go out and purchase the book. But this is not very often. I do keep a list of what I have read so that, down the road if I want a book again I have the title, author and dewy decimal number. Makes finding it again a snap.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Traveling Tracy
Hello again!!, I have a great sanitation/cleaning tip to use for all of your Andis tools......Its called Andis Blade Wash...You would want to do this at least once a week....I do it every Saturday at the end of my week, so that when I return to work on Tuesday my clippers and trimmers are ready to go....TIP...... Open up your Andis Blade Wash, (Can be ordered here on our website if you cant find it in a local beauty supply store), pour enough of the blade wash into the lid of the container to cover the blade of the clipper only, about 1/4 inch, ( this prevents hair from getting into the rest of your container, and possibly dipping your equipment too far into solution). Take your clipper or trimmer, turn it on, tilt lid carefully, laying the blade of tool in the liquid, and watch all the hair just come spilling out! Once this complete, wipe blade off with soft, dry cloth.After all equipment is done, discard dirty solution, rinse lid with soap and water, wipe clean and replace back on Blade Wash......I promise you, if you do this once a week with our Andis Blade Wash, you will maintain a healthy, happy clipper!!!! So get to cutting!!!!! If you have any questions or comments please feel free to email us here at Andis, we would love to hear from you!!
Friday, September 5, 2008
Talent tape
The talent coordinator from the Tonight Show with Jay Leno has asked me to submit a tape for consideration for a spot on the show. I will be filming this tape this week and pop it in the mail. Stay tuned.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Lisa Penny
Lisa is a 3rd generation master barber and a good friend. She was excited to learn of my upcoming attempt to break the records. I invited her to be there and she jumped at the chance. Lisa was a huge asset to me and our team in making the world record event a big success. She hung in there for the entire 24 hours. She did it all. She shampooed. She swept. She worked the chairs for me. Lisa was a cheerleader and supporter from the get-go. Lisa is also an aspiring platform artist for Andis. She has done school classes as well as gotten up on stage at a few large shows and put hair on the floor for Andis and shared and sold tools. Lisa and her family own a great barber shop in Florence, SC. The hair place on Irby street is the place to go for a great haircut and superior customer service. Thank you for being there for me and Andis. I look forward to visiting you in your shop soon.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Back to Empire
The World record journey started at the Empire beauty School in Arlington Heights , IL near my house. Things went full circle this past week. I met the photographer from the Chicago Tribune there for a photo shoot for the Trib article on the world records. I thought it would be a good place to do the pics. The crew at the school was happy to see me and have the photo shoot there. I am to go back there later this week for a class and to share the story of the world record with the students there. Thank you to all my fans and friends at Empire. Val, you and your team are the best!
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
This week on YouTube
This week we have uploaded a video featuring the NEW BG series Outliner blade. Have a look. The link is right here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTaHcgf1T4E
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTaHcgf1T4E
Monday, September 1, 2008
Yackin with Yafchak
...well it September and I'm exited to be going to Denver on the 14th for our hair show, hope to see A lot of you there at the Andis booth. I will be demoing every haircut in the universe with our super clippers come check us out and treat yourself to a great tool.
Happy clippering!
Lynn
Happy clippering!
Lynn
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Bronner Bros, Aug. 2008
The Bronner show was again a huge Andis event for Andis fans and educators alike. We sponsored the competition as we have come to do. We presented a SRO class of short clipper cutting. Tone rocked the floor with his unique brand of highly technical, high quality cutting. Kenny Duncan and the clipperedeucation.com presentation was the highlight of the Barber Boot Camp on Monday. Were you there? You know that you cannot miss this powerful event . Make plans for February, 2009. Andis and I will be there. Don’t miss it.
Monday, August 25, 2008
NEW World Haircutting Records
Yessssss!!!!!
We did it!
The Andis team , along with help from Woody's, Rooster's and a crew of many more helped me break all 3 Guinness World haircutting rcords.
Fastest haircut... 55 seconds
Most haircuts in 1 hour..... 34 haircuts
Most haircuts in 24 hours..... 340 haircuts
WoW!!!!
I can't even believe the success we had.
Stay tuned for more on this exciting event and how it can mean more $ in YOUR pocket.
TY
Ivan
We did it!
The Andis team , along with help from Woody's, Rooster's and a crew of many more helped me break all 3 Guinness World haircutting rcords.
Fastest haircut... 55 seconds
Most haircuts in 1 hour..... 34 haircuts
Most haircuts in 24 hours..... 340 haircuts
WoW!!!!
I can't even believe the success we had.
Stay tuned for more on this exciting event and how it can mean more $ in YOUR pocket.
TY
Ivan
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
New video camera
We have upgraded to a top end digital video camera with a HUGE hard drive. We will be faster, nimbler and more creative with the YouTube video series as well as custom video to support our customers. Look out Hollywood.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Yakking with Yafchak
Today i was watching shear genoius on bravo and noticed that the stylists were
using our andis blue ceramic advanced detachable clipper while cutting
a dogs fur to match the hair cut of their owner. This clipper is one
of my favorite andis tools ever. It must be pretty great to appear on a popular
beauty industry show. talk to you next month.
HAPPY CLIPPERING
P.S
good luck this month ivan with the guiness world record of cutting the most hair the fastest
using our andis blue ceramic advanced detachable clipper while cutting
a dogs fur to match the hair cut of their owner. This clipper is one
of my favorite andis tools ever. It must be pretty great to appear on a popular
beauty industry show. talk to you next month.
HAPPY CLIPPERING
P.S
good luck this month ivan with the guiness world record of cutting the most hair the fastest
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Friday, August 8, 2008
Witness kits out
The witness kits are out to the GWR witnesses. They will be prepared and we all will be ready to make history. The practice event was a big success. We broke both records in the practice… More on these later… There are 2 weeks to go from today. The training intensifies.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Cosmoprof 2008
The Cosmoprof show in Las Vegas is always an exciting time for Andis. The introduction of new items for the balance of the year gets our customers and reps excited and this year was no exception. It is too soon to discuss some of the items here, but stay tuned. I will be sharing lots of info on the NEW must-have Andis tools in your future.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
This week on YouTube
Ears and Sideburns. A great video on all you need to know to do a great job in this crucial area of your short men’s clipper cuts. Cut and paste the link below. Post a comment. Let’s discuss your ideas too.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-f5TgmZrvg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-f5TgmZrvg
This week on YouTube
Ears and Sideburns. A great video on all you need to know to do a great job in this crucial area of your short men’s clipper cuts. Cut and paste the link below. Post a comment. Let’s discuss your ideas too.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-f5TgmZrvg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-f5TgmZrvg
Friday, August 1, 2008
Slam Dunkin
This weekend the Andis Educational team experienced a super exciting educational experience. We all came together to equip each other with tips and techniques that will make our presentations power packed and a must see. Pictures of this event are posted on www clippereducation.com
Kenneth Duncan
Director of Education \ Andis Educator
cell: 1-215-858-6899
Remember we provide inspiration, motivation, and Clipper Education!
for booking info:
booking@clippereducation.com
http://www.clippereducation.com
Kenneth Duncan
Director of Education \ Andis Educator
cell: 1-215-858-6899
Remember we provide inspiration, motivation, and Clipper Education!
for booking info:
booking@clippereducation.com
http://www.clippereducation.com
Slam Dunkin
This weekend the Andis Educational team experienced a super exciting educational experience. We all came together to equip each other with tips and techniques that will make our presentations power packed and a must see. Pictures of this event are posted on www clippereducation.com
Kenneth Duncan
Director of Education \ Andis Educator
cell: 1-215-858-6899
Remember we provide inspiration, motivation, and Clipper Education!
for booking info:
booking@clippereducation.com
www.clippereducation.com
Kenneth Duncan
Director of Education \ Andis Educator
cell: 1-215-858-6899
Remember we provide inspiration, motivation, and Clipper Education!
for booking info:
booking@clippereducation.com
www.clippereducation.com
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Last week on YouTube
This week on YouTube...
er...
Last week... I got a bit behind in posting these nitces.
TY
A bright look at Andis Illuminating tools. Have a look.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yahfpCY6yJ0
er...
Last week... I got a bit behind in posting these nitces.
TY
A bright look at Andis Illuminating tools. Have a look.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yahfpCY6yJ0
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Yakkin with Yafchak
Lynn is a member of the Andis education team.
It is amazing how long my Andis clippers last me ! All because I keep them clean . After every hair cut I just simply brush the hair out, give a squirt of cool care on each side of the blade, then two drops of oil along the blade. Nothing can be simpler. Have fun with your Andis clippers
It is amazing how long my Andis clippers last me ! All because I keep them clean . After every hair cut I just simply brush the hair out, give a squirt of cool care on each side of the blade, then two drops of oil along the blade. Nothing can be simpler. Have fun with your Andis clippers
Friday, July 18, 2008
The year of the T shirt
2008 is to be the year of the T shirt in the pro beauty industry at shows. Paul Mitchell started it a couple of years back with the separate clothing booth across the aisle from their reg. booth. BTC got into the game big time lately with salon industry inspired offerings. IBS Las Vegas was just swamped with them. Not product or brand connected. Just salon industry themes. Everywhere. Booths with traditional goods had t shirts too. The “just t shirt” booths are the new thing. Graphics, rhinestones, humor, fashion images. Anything goes. And boy do they go. Booths are simple and cheap. Inventory is deep and traffic looks heavy. There is always another opportunity to make a buck in this game.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Totally Tracy
This is a great technical trick for all you barbers that don’t like using razors.....this trick however is only effective using the T-Outliners, Outliner II's, Styliner II's or the new M3's. I like to line my clients up twice, after the first line up and haircut is complete, I apply some type of astringent, and then some light oil on the hair and a little over the hairline... then I grab my brush and trimmers (My personal favorite is the Styliner II's)..and repeat the line up, brushing the hair constantly, making sure that when I re-line the hair it is perfect.... after you make your way around entire head, wipe off access oil...This way when your client gets up in the morning and brushes his hair, it looks just like it did when he left your chair....This is a cool trick to know, if you want to learn more tricks, techniques, or tips please keep checking for my blogs...and if you have any questions or comments please feel free to email us!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Rooster Dance
Have a look at the video in the link below.
The Rooster's Men's Grooming Center mascot will be present for the Guinness World Record Event. Guy in the suit will be getting a haircut (minus the rooster head) as a part of the festivities.
See you there.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZhC0sU3uvzI
The Rooster's Men's Grooming Center mascot will be present for the Guinness World Record Event. Guy in the suit will be getting a haircut (minus the rooster head) as a part of the festivities.
See you there.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZhC0sU3uvzI
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Mr Anthony, still going strong
Andis classes were standing room only for Mr. Anthony at the Las Vegas event last week. His information is classic and solid. It represents the foundations of great clipper work. This is the stuff people come to hair shows to see. Nice job Mr. Anthony.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Training days
The Andis educational team gathered for 2 solid days of clipper cutting sharing. With 9 in the room (including me) we had over 220 years of clipper cutting experience. And share we did. I presented a few cutting concepts. They all presented to the group. They we all grabbede clippers and mannequins and jumped in and cut together. Everyone contributed to the collective knowledge pool. Everyone went back to their shops with new skills, ideas. All of us got a group energy and excitement boost. Look out at the next show you attend. We are informed, excited and energized like never before… and you will be the beneficiary.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Smoothness
The theme for the Premiere Orlando event this year was smoothness from start to finish.
Here is the list:
1. I used an Elevate SpeedMaster clipper for a cut on stage on the floor. Wow! That clipper was singing. I use SpeedMasters all the time. This was just one great feeling, sounding and cutting tool. This tool is one of the best values we offer… power, price, performance. Wow! The crowd responded. Immediately after I did the cut with it we sold about 24 units. This is exactly how it is done. Show and sell. Boy is it fun when it just clicks.
2. Lynn and Antonio did a great job presenting on stage. They get better every show. Non stop action for all of both days. Great job guys!
3. Our classroom presentations. When all is clicking, no one can touch the Andis team or the Andis brand. Our classes were SRO, models were good, questions from the crowd were great. Response was strong.
4. I got another pic of a great Andis Master tattoo. Show me yours!
5. The landing at O’Hare on the way home was one of the best I ever experienced. Many passengers remarked about it. So, it must have been unusual. TY United Airlines.
Back to the airport next week for more!
Here is the list:
1. I used an Elevate SpeedMaster clipper for a cut on stage on the floor. Wow! That clipper was singing. I use SpeedMasters all the time. This was just one great feeling, sounding and cutting tool. This tool is one of the best values we offer… power, price, performance. Wow! The crowd responded. Immediately after I did the cut with it we sold about 24 units. This is exactly how it is done. Show and sell. Boy is it fun when it just clicks.
2. Lynn and Antonio did a great job presenting on stage. They get better every show. Non stop action for all of both days. Great job guys!
3. Our classroom presentations. When all is clicking, no one can touch the Andis team or the Andis brand. Our classes were SRO, models were good, questions from the crowd were great. Response was strong.
4. I got another pic of a great Andis Master tattoo. Show me yours!
5. The landing at O’Hare on the way home was one of the best I ever experienced. Many passengers remarked about it. So, it must have been unusual. TY United Airlines.
Back to the airport next week for more!
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Contributions
Beginning in the next week or so you will be reading great new stuff here. Members of the Andis educational team have been invited to contribute and post to this blog. I will, of course, serve as editor, however, team members have free reign to share with you what is on their minds, in their heads and happening in their part of the clipper world. It should be interesting. Stay tuned.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
This week on YouTube
One of my favorite technical offerings. Backhand clipper cutting.
Try it today.
TY
Ivan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8DlTV4q384
Try it today.
TY
Ivan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8DlTV4q384
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
This week on YouTube
This week we posted our new video “Meet the BGRc”. This is a chance to get to know the world class BGRc detachable blade clipper. Have a look using the link below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vpQGexihIg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vpQGexihIg
Monday, June 9, 2008
Send dawn an email
Dawn from Roosters Men’s Grooming Centers is to be the clearing house for sing-ups for haircuts for the world record. Get to her at dawn@roostersmgc.com Get on the list. Get your friends together. We need the heads. We cannot do it without you! Be a part of the world records.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Kenny Duncan's Clipper Site
Have a look at Kenny Duncan’s web site. He is doing a great job of building a clipper community on-line. Way to go Kenny.
http://www.clippereducation.com/
http://www.clippereducation.com/
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Premiere Orlando 2008
This is the big weekend for clipper cutting in Orlando, FL. We had run ads on Craig’s List looking for models. Our class descriptions for this show were pretty specific so we need the right heads. We will see who shows up. It is June and not August, but it will still be pretty hot down here. This will be the first show where we will talk up both the world record event and the new Andis / YouTube project. As always, there is a lot of fun to be had. See you on International drive bright and early tomorrow.
Friday, May 30, 2008
andis on YouTube
Andis is now on YouTube. We are posting educational videos on YouTube. We are going to try to post 1 each week. We will focus the content on new tools, interesting facts and great how-to clipper cutting info. If there is a topic you would like to see addresses in the video series, let us know. Email me at expert@andisco.com and suggest a video subject. If we pick your topic to feature you will win a FREE Andis prize. Do not forget to subscribe to the video series (it is FREE). Just set up a user name and a password (FREE) and click subscribe. Every time we post a new video you will get it emailed to you. Be the first to see them. Got to http://www.youtube.com and use any of the following search words to find Andis there:
“andis”, “Ivan”, “clipper”, “taper”, ”Zoot”, “hair” Use more than one and you will find us even faster.
“andis”, “Ivan”, “clipper”, “taper”, ”Zoot”, “hair” Use more than one and you will find us even faster.
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