Crafting Site..

[Laurey]

http://www.crafters-index.com/index.html

Looking specifically for any navigation issues, is it easy to find your way around? but would appreciate any comments. This is basically a 'cgi-resources' site for crafters (i.e.: no cgi - mostly patterns).

I've hacked the heck out of the script to provide for full reviews & the addition of pictures (for those patterns that have been done up by users of the site).

So.. let 'er rip.. what needs fixin'/replacing?

tia,
-L

[(jj)]

Laurey,

NICE :) Looks like a lot of work and love went into this one.

It loads well, even for Geezers on dialup.

The navigation is good, but trying to think as some users would, there could be a wee improvement.

When a user follows through to an area and needs to back up a step or two, the only way to do so is with the back button (unless I missed something)

Maybe where you have the path listed, as in:
Crafters Index: Needlecrafts : Crochet : Afghans and Throws

you could set these as links to take the users back to any of those previous categories.?

Also, an obvious "Home" link would be nice for those who'd never think to click the logo :)

Other than that, everything worked well and looks great.

[Laurey]

Thanks JJ :) yes.. a lot of love is going into this one.. it's such a hassle to find a good free pattern sometimes <G>

GLAD to hear speedly load.. the average user here will have either dial-up or low-speed broadband I believe, so it was a additional design factor.

I'll see if I can find where to hack in & add links to the category portion (Great idea! and no you didn't miss anything) & a home link (duh! <G>)

any other comments/suggestions out there?
-L

[YvetteKuhns]

I agree with all of jj's remarks. The use of the back button isn't as good as a link back. What would be better is:

<a href="http://www.crafters-index.com/">Home</a>/
<a href="http://www.crafters-index.com/Candle_Making/">Candle Making</a>/
<a href="http://www.crafters-index.com/Candle_Making/Gel_Candles/">Gel Candles</a>

There is extra blank space on the left, but the colors are nice. The logo is cute. Nice job! ;)

[Laurey]

Thanks Yvette :)

I'll probably add the HOME to the top menu bar.. I think that's where most users would expect it to be.

As to the 'blank space' to the left.. that will be filled at a later date, probably with advertising (but not moving stuff.. HATE THAT) or possibly the most recent pattern review or similar. Figured it'd be easier to put the area in place now than try to get it in there later when I have traffic <G>

-L

[YvetteKuhns]

I thought the space on the left was there for advertising. You can make a banner that says "Place your ad here" and have it link to a page to place an ad. Or sign up for Google AdSense for related ads.