One of the things I take the MOST pride in is when people tell me my kids have good manners. I LOVE hearing that compliment. I just think good manners and all around kindness will take you MILES in your life.
With the addition of the internet to our everyday lives, it kind of seems like general manners don’t matter as much anymore. Mostly because you don’t have to look people in the face. You don’t have to talk to anyone, and you can literally hide behind your computer.
Rather than get angry about it, I choose to believe it’s just because most people don’t really KNOW how to have internet manners. And hopefully most people never mean any harm by the things they do or don’t do. But if you are an avid blog reader/follower…this one’s for you!
(If I felt better, I think I’d invite some friends over and make you a video. For now, you’ll just have to enjoy this awesome one from 1951 talking about table manners….LOVE IT!)
With that in mind, I thought I’d just let you in on some blogging/internet etiquette that I’ve learned.
(and for the record…I didn’t know most of these either…
someone had to teach me. And sometimes the hard way, like I got embarrassed.)
Here’s the deal with Pinterest.
- It’s amazing.
- It’s changed the way all of us think and keep our ideas straight.
- It’s super pretty
- It’s addictive and fun
- It’s a super fast way to find LOTS of cool stuff
Right? We love Pinterest.
But here’s what you MUST know….
Pinterest DOESN’T MAKE THINGS!
Every time you pin a recipe, and idea, room decor, craft, holiday idea, organization technique…..it doesn’t come FROM PINTEREST!
It’s possible that this is just a pet peeve of mine. But really, it’s about manners. Pinterest has changed SO MUCH about how blogging works. I often hear “I got this idea from Pinterest,” when, in fact, some lovely person in the internet universe MADE that idea.
- They sweat over it.
- They took pictures of it.
- They wrote up a post about it.
- And they’ll never hear that you made, tried, or loved it
I’m not going to tell you not to use Pinterest. HECK NO! I love it. I just want you to think about HOW you use it, and how you refer to things that might be inspired by something on the site. Take a minute and see where that idea came from. Who was the mastermind behind that beautiful picture/idea that inspired you? And even better….take a second to tell them that you love it. It’s just good manners.
And please, just for me, NEVER SAY, “I got this idea from Pinterest” again. Deal?
Again, Pinterest has revolutionized the way we view blogging, and sharing ideas. Particularly creative ideas such as cooking, and crafting (barf, I hate that word) and decorating, and DIY’ing.
I’ve had very deep conversations with some of my blogging friends (many who I consider to be BLOGGING SUPERSTARS!) Who say they are just ready to quit. Be all done with blogging. It’s just not satisfying for them anymore.
Why?
Well, people used to come to your blog and look around. Many would comment on the things they liked. Many would leave messages thanking the blogger for the amazing work they were doing. Many relationships were formed when a blogger was able to respond to a comment and form an actual friendship.
Now, those pictures are pinned. And many, if not most, of the people don’t even stop by the blog.
Think of it like this….
- how do you feel when you’ve put a MAJOR amount of work into a project at work?
- how do you feel when you’ve spent the whole day cleaning the house?
- how do you feel when you put tons of effort into looking extra cute?
AND NO ONE SAYS ANYTHING.
Boo! It’s the worst feeling ever! Can you kind of understand how they feel? Making a blog post takes several hours just to write, let alone all the work that goes in to making whatever thing is being featured.
And I know you MIGHT have the impression that these bloggers are making tons of money to do what they do. But I can tell you? They DON’T. Most make next to nothing. Some make enough to cover the cost of their supplies. And VERY few make actual money. (and most I know put that money back into things they can blog about and show you!)
What would we do without these bloggers? These people that STARTED the idea of sharing creative ideas. These people who give away their genius talents? Let’s not make it so they want to quit.
Show your favorite bloggers that you love them. I’m not kidding. They will keep going if they start feeling a connection with readers again. It’s just good manners to share your appreciation. Let’s all learn to say “thank you” more often! Okay?
Of course you knew this one was coming. The nastiness that flourishes because no one can see you as you type your hateful comments, opinions, or words.
Sometimes I just think, “if you were looking that girl in the face, would you say that?” And maybe some people would. Because mean people exist. BUT….I think for the most part the answer is no.
Here’s one….
- Did you know that a site owner can look on Pinterest and see the comments from items that have been pinned from their site?
Yep. So when you make a comment…(and this is a real one that happened to a friend of mine)
“Great idea, but I’d want to make it actually cute”
Really? How do you think she felt about that? I mean, it’s not like super horrible. But is it necessary? She worked really hard on that. If you want to make it different, just do it. I totally tend to think people don’t realize that what they write can be seen. Now you know.
But remember….that EVERYTHING you write on the internet….has the ability to be seen. Be thoughtful.
Can I share with you a VERY personal story?
One time, on Facebook, I made a comment about an old High School friend’s husband. It wasn’t nice. But I put it on a page of a person that didn’t know her. I didn’t use her name. No big deal. I am friends on FB with this high school friend….but these people don’t know each other AT ALL.
Well….the internet has a funny way of saving all your words.
Through whatever channel…whether it was “Lara made a comment on so and so’s page” or whatever…. This high school friend read EXACTLY what I wrote.
I would have had no idea, except that she decided to write me an e-mail and confront me. You guys…..I DIE! I swear, I try to be a nice person most of the time. I’m not perfect. But I was caught in a big ‘ol moment of true bitchiness. (pardon)
The e-mail, however, ended with her telling me that she truly forgave me for what I said. And she hoped that in the future, I would know that things I say, can hurt others. I have rarely been so inspired in my lifetime. And so completely humbled. It takes an amazing person to offer that kind of forgiveness. And I have never forgotten it. I immediately responded with a sincere apology, taking full responsibility, and thanking her whole-heartedly for the forgiveness she offered.
I learned such a lesson. There is NO REASON to be unkind. No reason to write unkind words. And if you decide to…..be prepared to be found out.
Just because you can leave an “anonymous” comment. Doesn’t mean you should.
I ADORE how Ellen Degeneres ends her show every day. It’s how I want to end this post.
BE KIND TO ONE ANOTHER.
Post edit: 10/3/12: I am overwhelmed by the response to this post. Overwhelmed. Nothing like this has ever happened to me before. And I ADORE and appreciate all the wonderful support I’ve received from many, many, comments.
However, my comment space has become a place where many people feel like they’d like to voice their negative opinions about bloggers, pinterest, and my thoughts. And frankly, on a post that was written to promote kindness, that response has been disappointing.
If you notice, the article asks people not to say “I got this idea from Pinterest”. Which I hope we can all agree is a very different thing than saying “I found this on Pinterest”.
Discovering new things on Pinterest is the thing that is great about the site. And I love to find new friends and talent there, just like you. But the site, on it’s own, doesn’t come up with any ideas. And that is what I am asking people to consider. In no way do I hate Pinterest. Which was actually mentioned several times.
That’s not in question.
The negative comments about bloggers and their need for a pat on the back hurts my heart. These are my friends, and some of the most humble women on earth. They are giving this community FREE ideas, patterns, and step-by-step instructions for projects. Saying “thank you” isn’t about an ego….it’s just good manners.
I just am baffled as to why the end of the article about “treat others kindly” doesn’t apply to them.
Because I value SO MUCH the kind-space with which I wrote and shared this article, I have decided to turn the comments section off. I hope the article continues to help people think about Internet manners and how to be kinder to those whom you interact with words.
But in that spirit, I just can’t foster a place for people to be unkind. It’s the opposite of what I mean at Less Cake {more frosting}. This website is about love, laughing, and support. Period.
It has nothing to do with your right to express yourself. And you’re more than welcome to express yourself on your own site. But here…I just like to feel warm fuzzies. That’s what my body needs to recover right now. (did you know I’ve been sick and in bed for 6 months?) I hope you’ll understand that. You know where to find me if you need me. 
And I’m still ‘lil old me…who loves frosting, and friends, and giggles.
I absolutely LOVE this post and second everything you said, especially the part about giving credit where credit is due for things you’ve found via Pinterest. I am guilty of crediting Pinterest when I use a recipe or see someone else make/bake/craft something found on the site. But from now on, I will do my best to use the original source when giving a shout-out.
And I’ve always had an issue with people using anonymity to say things they would NEVER say in person. If you can’t say anything nice, even online or via “Anonymous”, then for heaven’s sake, don’t say anything at all. This is as true now as it ever was. We deal with enough crap on a daily basis; no one needs more crap thrown at her.
You go, girl. So blessed to call you my friend.
Thank you for taking the time to blog and putting your ideas on Pinterest. I will now go directly to the poster and thank him, her for their efforts. We all need to remember our manners!
I love this post. Such important info. So important to let people know that you love what they are doing
Could not have said it better myself. 1 million % agree. The truth is- I like validation. Putting a loooot of time into something and then hearing crickets is a bummer. Then hearing “I found it on Pinterest” is like a triple bummer. When I pin something I make sure to credit the source or I don’t pin it.
I love all your points. Shared on Facebook.
love you bb!
Oh thank you so much. I too agree that things have become SOOOO unkind in the world today.
Recently I was inspired to make myself a little printable with 50 ways to simply be kind, I printed it out and kept it at my desk at work. The words BE KIND are written in bold over the entire list. I need that daily reminder because it has stopped coming naturally.
I love your thoughts about commenting. I get a complex when hundreds of people see a post and don’t say anything. Maybe I’m just absolute crap and don’t realize it, LOL.
Also, I promise to never say the words “I was inspired by Pinterest” ever again. What an eye opening thought.
So great! In fact, it just reminded me that I FORGOT to give a shout out to my inspiration on one of my posts. Going to fix that right now!
You are so great… and right. I am so glad you brought up this point about Pinterest. I see it in a whole new light!
As a furniture refinisher, I would add that it’s rude to tell someone who has poured their heart, soul and creativity into remaking wood furniture that it would have been better left in it’s wooden state. Why then would you visit, follow and comment on a furniture PAINTING blog/page? Always gets me.
Great post Lara! Hope you’re on your way to feeling better too! Thinking of and praying for your complete and speedy recovery.
Wow. this is going to resonate all over the internet!
nice work!
Beautifully written. I just wish that everyone would understand this and start giving positive feedback because we all need it!
Thank you, thank you, thank you for this post! I think we all want validation. Who doesn’t like validation? No one. that’s who. These topics are the cause of my love/hate relationship with Pinterest. I love it because it’s an awesome resource and it’s one of my top referrers, but I hate it because of the points you made. Another thing that grinds my gears is when someone (non-blogger) says “You’re so Pinteresty”. By “Pinteresty” do they mean creative? Thanks for having the guts to write a post about this!
Lara, it has been too long! How are you my friend? I love this post- like LOVE it. You have a way of saying what all of us are thinking. Hope you’re hanging in there- I think about you all the time!!!!!
PREACH! It is so important to be nice. Thank a blogger for hosting, let fellow bloggers know you like their project, let your readers know you read and respond to messages. If a blog is a hobby, a business or something in between we all love to hear that we are doing something right. To hear that somone out there likes the stuff we make, and wants us to keep on coming back to see what we are doing means the world. Rule of thumb: If you wouldn’t steal someone’s art from a store, don’t steal it from the internet.
Thank you for being awesome,
Tanya
Great post, but I would’ve made it cute.
Kidding, kidding! I think you speak truth. 
In fact, I want to share this post with my pinning friends so they understand. I’m like the pinterest police: constantly telling people to click through the pins. I love finding new blogs that way!
Those are some good points. I know I need to work on commenting on those bloggers that I enjoy everyday! Look, I’m starting here! (this is a good start, right!?) I’m on the right track!
Thanks for reminding us all about how to show appreciation for others.
Laura, Your posts like these are always so inspiring. I have felt all these things, too! The Pinterest thing drives me absolutely bonkers, but, you know, it’s so prevalent that I’ve caught myself saying it even though I hate it so much! Be kind to one another. The end.
Love it.
Wonderful post! I do need to get in the habit of commenting more often.
Here’s a question for you…
When I find something original on Pinterest, I link back to it. However, what would you do about an activity that has been done the same way by multiple people (like 5+)? That’s usually when I fall to “I saw it on Pinterest”, simply because as a reader I wouldn’t want to see half a dozen links to the same thing. Ideas?
Just a thought, but you could link to your page where they are all pinned? That way others can see the variety of sources that inspired you. If it’s only 2 or 3 links though I think it’s worth linking them individually. Usually there are a few that truly served as my inspiration.
I pledge to comment, even if I have nothing to say but cheers, mate! Good on ya.
Great post and AWESOME reminders. 100% with you on the craft (BARF) thing.
Thank you for sharing.
Feel well!
Krista
Thanks for taking the time to write this post about proper internet manners. I know I work hard to teach my children good manners and I hope that in this age of the internet, instant messages and less personal connections that we can all remember that words whether spoken or written can have an impact on others, kind and unkind alike. Thanks for sharing!
great post!!
I wish everyone with a computer could read this post!! I love everything you said!!
Wholeheartedly agree. Although I am sure there are several people who would say nasty things in real life, too. I hear them all the time at my shows. It’s really annoying! I read many blogs and there are many times I don’t comment because I just can’t think of anything witty or clever. I guess I should just say anything…nice, that is!
Thank you for saying it all so well! I’ve been one of those bloggers who has thought about stopping. So appreciate your efforts to so eloquently put the feelings of so many bloggers have into words!
You dear, are an awesome writer. I think this post needs to be shared and I promise to give credit where credit is due.
As always, your wisdom astounds me. It’s something I’ve been thinking, but haven’t had the words to express them. So, I’ve shared this post on Facebook, and hopefully some of my friends will take the hint! LOL! By the way, if I like something, I usually visit the originating site. Sometimes that’s not possible, but, now I’ll be leaving kind comments about their projects.
LOVE LOVE LOVE this! A little lesson in manners never hurt anyone
I am sorry but I don’t understand why you “hate” dislike the use of the term “crafting”…Why? Are people like me who have many many creative outlets suppose to take the time and franckly be obnixious enough to list them all…Use of the word crafting for many of us is done because most people don’t beleive us if we list all the things we actively participate and have mastery of anyway. So we simplify for the masses..Is that so wrong?
This was a wonderful post. Thank you so much for writing, as it applies to SOO many of us!
Beautiful Lara! I love this and totally agree. I confess I have been one of those bloggers that thinks about quitting because it makes me so sad when I post a project and hear crickets – and my blog isn’t even big.
where do I begin.. well for starters you nailed it all. I mean, I have gotten so frustrated when I have read the words from (non-bloggers) on my personal FB page or even in person…” I got this off Pinterest” I bite my tongue and don’t say a word. I would like to say NO’ you got that idea from some creative craft blog. grrr. I also, think that as much as I do love Pinterest it truly has changed the blogging community. I just today took pictures of my ghost treat bags… uploaded my pics, edited all the fav. ones. ended up hating them all, because I new they could of been better. So I reset up my back drop and props and re-took them all again, with edits and all. I have gotten 1 comment on the ghost bags. It feels like a waist of time, why share cute ideas for the world to see, when no one says a word. I can just keep the cute ideas to myself….. you know. Anyway, you said everything so perfectly in this post and I love it so much. Thank you for sharing this with us all, and thanks for reading my novel. I sure hope you are healing well and getting better. hugs, jen
Dear Lara, thank you!!!! Love this post and I love you!! {I realize I sound like a creeper… but I promise I’m not!
}
Anyway, this is a wonderfully written post. Thanks, once again, for all you do!!
Thanks for this wonderful post-I so agree and need to remind myself in several areas more.
amen, sister. thank you
You took the words right out of my mouth. Especially about Pinterest! Arghhhhh! Great post
Thank you
I’m a Pinterest addict, but if I make something I’ve pinned I’ll usually say “I came across this idea on Pinterest. You should see the other stuff this blogger does!” I always go and have a look at the source (if possible). I’ve usually found more great ideas. I uses Pinterest as a visual bookmarking site more than anything 
i love this idea/phrase!
Talk about a kick in the pants! For me that is
I’m going to make it my personal mission on thank every single blogger that I borrow a recipe from or that inspires me…
Starting with you…
Thank you so much!
Amen sista!!
I could not agree more- I can not tell you how many times I’ve been all excited about posting a project then get ZERO comments- Makes you doubt your excitement… I sometimes wonder if the days of blog comments are gone.. which would be sad because that’s what makes you think you are SHARING your ideas with others…
Thanks for the incite! I went to a blogger conference this summer and I believe the women and (men) that bog and share put s much work into their blogs. I appreciate you and all your hard work.
Cheers!
thanks for the timely reminder
I recently participated in a sewing competition called Project Run & Play and was voted off today. Many people visit and quite a few have made comments like, “so and sos dress was definitely the best!” Or” Too bad so and so got voted off because she would have won this week!” These people obviously don’t realize how much work it was for all of us involved and that we were all checking the blog daily to see how many votes we were getting or as spectators, they just didn’t care. Great post!
I just went through a bunch of recent posts to make sure my Pinterest links and phraseology was in favor of the originator… I did ok for the most part, but did find a few changes to make! thanks for the reminder. Sorry my blog name puts “Crafty” in your inbox!
I totally agree with you! You are so right on each of your points. I have found LOTS of great new blogs from following the pin to the source. It’s always worth clicking through! I figure if they had one idea I thought was good enough to pin, chances are they have many more on their blog or site. I wish I got more comments on my blog, however – when I see how many times a project of mine has been pinned, it makes my day and makes me want to create more.
So glad you took the time to write up a great post for online manners, I appreciate it!
As a semi-non blogger the above things you mentioned honestly haven’t occured to me before but they make complete sense! I very rarely go to the actual blog that is linked to the Pinterest picture and never do I leave a comment. Now I will do better. And as for your high school friend….I once did something similar. I sent a not so nice text to a friend when I thought I was sending it to my husband. It was so super humbling and I immedietely hopped in my car and drove straight to her house to apologize in person. It was awful! But she said something I appreciated so much. She said, “Everyone makes mistakes. It’s what you do to make it right that counts.” I’m positive that you made things right with your friend!!!
Love ya!
I am so guilty of the “found it on Pinterest” phrase, but I usually click to the original site to pin something. Great post, definitely food for thought. PS. Found this post through Vintage Revival’s Facebook.
I saw this on Pinterest
but I was curious and came to read what it was about. I agree- only nice things to say, or just say “good idea” and make it to fit your style. I notice a lot of Pinterest manners aren’t followed, recently I have been trying to see if there is a way to block nude pictures (yes even the artsy kind) because it specifically states that they are not allowed. But to do that, I have to actually click on a picture to report the image, which makes me feel like I am searching for porn or something. I wish there was a block tab option without having to click on the picture. There are a lot of kids on pinterest, and moms with kids, and moms who are prudes- like me! If I look through photography stuff, I don’t want nudity. I wish they’d even just categorize boudoir photography separately from photography. It isn’t what I think of when I think of photography- pets, family, children, couples, wildlife, nature… that is what I look for, and sometimes I actually go to the blogs even, but the other stuff seems out of place and makes me uncomfortable, and it’s against the rules.
BEST POST EEEEEEVER!!!!!!!
It made me cry! Thank you for being so talented with words. EVERYTHING you said was spot on, and I agree 100%.
Thank you dear friend!
Thank you for sharing internet manners, I think that everything you said is SO true! I have to explain to friends (and even my mom) that IF you click on the picture it will take you to the link where it originated. Ps. I LOVE the title of your blog! <3
Great Post! You are a really good writer. I’ve been trying to comment more, and I will keep doing it.
I can’t agree enough, particularly on the being mean stuff.
And the Pinterest thing drives me crazy. people pinning images with no way of tracking back the original poster, or even pinning the general blog or an archive page, so you have to spend twenty minutes digging through the site to find the actual tutorial/picture/post. I *always* repin with the correct URL whenever I can. And, I can’t tell you how many cool blogs I’ve found by clicking through…
Thanks so much for the reminders!!! It’s easy to get busy with other things and think, “well, I’ll credit the blogger later….” or whatever, but SO much time is really behind that tiny little Pin!
Thanks for these reminders, dear… I agree with all of them. It is maddening to hear the phrase: “I got this off Pinterest.”
Thanks for spreading the word about this!
Can I get a “AMEN HALLELUJAH!!!!” You took the words right out of my mouth!!! I wish EVERYONE who uses Pinterest would read this! I am off to share this NOW! ♥
This was so well written and explained. I think everyone can relate to putting in effort to create and share something and then to not have any feedback and love. Blogger or Non-blogger. People need words of love and validation. Thanks for sharing.
Love your post! I personally always refer to things I’ve done as I found it on Pinterest, and _______is the blog. I follow SO many blogs, and really appreciate all of the creativity shared that I am sorely lacking personally! thanks for the reminders on manners! You rock!
Rock on! This post was amazing! Such awesome reminders and advice. Thank you!
Lara, you sure opened a can of worms. And well over due. I don’t even know how to use Pinterest so I am guilt free. But I agree there is no place for bad manners. Even though you aren’t feeling well your still thinking of others. I have been worried about you since I haven’t heard from you in a while. Always love your blog. Hope you are doing well, we pray for you every night. God Bless you!
Amen, sister! I was just trying to explain the whole “pinterest doesn’t make things” to some non-bloggers the other day. It drives me crazy. And, when I see other bloggers actually cite Pinterest instead of the actual site it came from, I die! It reminds me of when I taught high school and students would site “google” as their source. LOL!
Thanks for writing this!
P.S. Wanted to let you know that I think about you often and pray that those doctors can figure something out to get you out of pain and out of bed!!
This is a fabulous post and the video was funny too. I miss blogging the way it used to be. When people actually commented.
Have a fabulous day!
I love to read blogs and I love to comment. Unfortunately, I get annoyed at having to “register for this site” or “use this account” or whatever. It’s such a hassle! Truly, if more blogs/webhosting sites would just let you comment with your email and that’s it, I’m betting there’d be a lot more comments posted by passers-by. Keep blogging, people! We read them, even if we can’t comment.
I love your honesty – thank you!
I love everything about this post! I’m not so good on the taking time to comment on blogs. I’ll try harder!
Great post!!! Thank you so much for taking time to be a little reminder to all of us!!
I am going to pin this but wanted you to know how great I think it is first. Thanks for posting what so many of us are thinking
So sorry my blog name makes people want to barf
But thank you for all these reminders. You know, I’ve seen the phrase “all I want to do is make beautiful things even if no one care.” Well, there is satisfaction in creating something and enjoying the process–but of course we want people to care! We want to know that someone liked what we designed or was inspired by something we made. And yet Pinterest, this non-human entity is being praised left and right for it’s brilliance.
So very well said! You have such a gift for writing and expressing what is felt.! Thankyou!!!
Thanks for the reminder
THANK YOU!!!!!
I feel the pain! I try, when I “repin” to actually go the blog post or page and pin it from the source. Sometimes it’s hard to track down the origins because it has been repinned so manny times.
But in general ditto for recipes. I actually TAUGHT a class face to face with 6 other women from my church TWICE and it has been allover face book (in our circle of friends) to add my “secret ingredient” in a canning recipe and only one of them has given credit for the addition that has made such a huge difference in their canned salmon. It not even a family secret, My husband and I experimented for some time with different recipes and we settled on the one we created. It’s WORK to come up with something original!
I read a blog post once about recipes, and how she felt it was kind of stingy not to share them. She just couldn’t understand why some people guard them. Cooking (and crating/crafting) are often hallmarks. It is a big deal and it hurts that others are taking credit for your work. I don’t blog, but I love to look. I also cringe when work is not rewarded. Keep posting and we’ll keep reading!
PS I’ll be showing my boys the manners video!!
via FB and COM : )
Amen sister! Well said!
I love you Lara! This is such a fabulous post! And it is so true about the comments on Pinterest! I’ve read stuff on things pinned from my site and am like “Really? I CAN SEE THIS!” I would have loved to comment back but I decided to be a bigger person about it.
I will definitely be sharing this post for others to see. SO much has changed in the word of blogging it is crazy. I started my blog almost 3 yrs ago now and it just isn’t the same anymore but hopefully it will/can get back to how it used to be or somewhat at least.
I will admit though… I’ve become a bad bloggy friend on commenting on people’s blogs, even reading them. I hope for that to change once Travis gets home though.
Thank you , thank you , thank you ! This is the best post I have read in a loooong time . I put a project on my blog no one even says hello and then I look on pinterest and it has been pinned 68 times in the first day , well thanks ! So pleased you wrote this and thanks again !
Nail. Head. Hit.
Great post! And thanks for sharing the internet boo-boo. I think we have all been guilty of that at some time or another, caught, or not.
I {LOVE} this! Thanks for putting it out there!
So confronting, and so full of truth. Thank you! I already try and “rePin” by clicking through to the website and Pinning myself, but I promise to be a better Pinner/blogger in even more ways!!
♥ this!!
Thank you for this post! Now if we could just get every one that pins to do it right.
After reading about going all the way back to the original pin, I’ve started doing that. If I can’t find the original link for a tutorial, there’s no reason to pin it because I won’t have the instructions of making the item. The article I read didn’t mention making a comment which makes so much sense. I should have thought of it because I know how disappointing it is to put all my energy into a post and no one comments. I’m going to pin this and I promise to link straight back to you.
Hey lady, GREAT POST!
So true re Pinterest and can I apply it to Instagram? Is it wrong that as a content creator it annoys me to no end that people instagram images that someone else created without crediting the creator or at minimum, source?
Also, thank you for sharing your honest story. Yay for forgiveness and lessons learned. X
I pray every day that we will be kind to each other. I would rather raise kind children, than smart children, or pretty children, though I do strive for all of them, LOL. XOXO
I love this post Lara and I love you! Everything you said was spot on. Thank you for all the reminders. I wish everyone would read this.
Great post. I agree with everything that you have written…and it’s something I’ve wondered about Pinterest for a while. I often go back to the source to see where the pin came. The really great thing is that there are so many people who want to use the internet with “manners” and I’m sure we’ll all eventually be the standard rather than the “manner less” having the upper hand.
I LOVE this post. I am a brand new blogger, not a fancy one and I envy the style and way so many others do it. But if this post did nothing else, I PROMISE when I find something on Pinterest, I will do my utmost to Repin from the original location i/o Pinterest itself. I am guilty of the saying “I saw it on Pinterest” but I will do my best NOT to do that any more. I had thought of this before but thank you for putting it out there and I am going to PIN this post to several of my boards so all my followers can read it as well! The one thing I really hoped to do from starting a blog was to develop new friendships and share my ideas.
I can’t say this enough…..THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU.
WE APPRECIATE YOU !
Well said. Thank you for the gentle reminder. I love all the fun, creative,inspiring things found on my bloggie friends sites. I’m going to do a better job of letting you all know. You my friend are awesome!
I am one of those Pinners….I get on Pinterest and pin away! I don’t think I’ve ever read any “rules” about pinning. I assumed that whoever posted the original pin would have their name watermarked on it so whoever pinned from a pin would be able to follow it back to the original….am I being naive in saying that? I apologize if I pinned your originals without giving credit to you. I will look more closely. Do the remarks follow from one pin to another? Thank you for pinning your “stuff” you are very talented!
Michelle, Sometimes the pin doesn’t link back to the original source so it’s always good to click. However, I am guilty of just pinning away as well. For me the bigger problem is that I have had projects completely copied, re-written, re-blogged and re-photographed and the only credit I get is “I saw this on pinterest.” There is so much work put into blogging that it’s very frustrating. Not to mention the legal aspect, some of these projects turn into more than just that and if credit is not given to the original creator their could be legal ramifications if products, books, etc. come from the original posts. Otherwise pinning is fine it’s more about the crediting.
Lesley
I also fall into repinning. For some reason, I thought there was some Pinterest etiquette that indicated that if I was taking the ‘pin idea’ from someone else, I should repin instead of pinning it as though I found it on my own. I’m not sure where I got that idea, but it hadn’t occurred to me that by following a “Pinterest etiquette rule” I could be breaking an overarching Internet rule. Good food for thought – thank you for writing this post, Miss Manners
Great post! Makes me want to go back and comment on the blogs of all the projects Iade from a pin. Thanks for the inspiration
You ROCK! Love the article & it is all true. Would be nice to get credit for ideas, etc. but at this point I would just like commenting on my blog posts too! One step at a time – all we can do is keep trying I guess! =) Keep up the great job – I will try harder to personally comment MORE – I feel like I do but I can always do better myself! Thanks for keeping it “real” & saying the hard stuff to everyone! =)
what a great post! a good reminder for everyone!
Great information! When ever I can, I click until I find the origin of the post. I find such amazing blogs and have had some great results. But this is the first time I’ve ever left a comment. I never thought anyone would be interested in my comments. From now on when I make something and tell others about it I will credit the blogger rather than Pintrest – promise. I’m going to go back to as many as I can and comment. Thank you for making me a better informed consumer.
This is SO needed! I’m sharing this on Facebook, Posting this on my website AND pinning it! Manners never go out of style but they seem to be forgotten.
Roxy
P.S. I don’t mind “craft” …. it’s definition is befitting.
Came to your site via Is This Really My Life? FB post. Great article. I’ve really never thought about Pinterest that way, but now I’ll never be able to think of it otherwise. Thanks!
I totally agree. I am guilty of the phrase, “I got this from Pinterest.” {though I do link back to the original post and not the pin…pet peeve of mine}. But I can guarantee I won’t be saying that anymore. What you said about blog readers is totally right as well. I want so badly to hear from my readers – even if they only visit once – so I can know people. That’s really all I want. To know people and be known by them. To build relationships. When my words head out into the cyber universe and return with crickets it gets harder and harder to send them out again. Thanks for this reminder.
You are so right. If I find a project or a recipe that I like, I always go to the site origin to see what they had to say about their own creation. However, I have been VERY guilty about not letting the original creator know how much I appreciate their idea or how it has inspired me. I have just spent the last few minutes leaving comments for all those who have given me guidance or inspiration for my projects in the last week. Thanks for the reminder that it really is just good manners.
Thanks so much for this post. I just recently wrote a post titled “I saw this on Pinterest” that highlighted a lot of what you said but you went even further into detail. I myself have had things swiped and re-writen and all the author has said was I saw this on Pininterest. I also have had my pin that has been pinned over 174k been featured as one of the worst pins on Pinterest by a not so kind blogger. How Rude? I totally agree with you that manners are necessary and I for one have very low tolerance for people who steal and swipe posts and don’t credit the author. Thanks again for this post ! Lesley http://chaoticallycreative.com/2012/09/17/i-saw-this-on-pinterest/
Lara, I love you. Not to be a creeper or anything, hahaha, but I do. The grace and humor with which this post (which I know took you a long time to write and find the perfect words) was written, just amazing. You have a gift.
I’m guilty of not commenting or responding to comments (for shame!) cause “I’m busy”. Man, I’ve grown to hate that phrase. Everyone is busy! I need to start telling people how I feel and how much I truly appreciate them. It stinks how we all know each other, but you’re almost like imaginary people that live inside my computer. Some of you robots cause you’re way too awesome to be human. Anywho, you are awesome, you all are, and I am so honored to be blogging amongst you guys in this genre. Hugs!!!
I always try to credit the person/blog/website I am pinning from. I frequently go to the original source because I want to see more awesome but I don’t always make a conscious effort to credit that person in conversation but I will do better. Thank you so much for bringing to our attention what so many of us simply don’t think about even when trying to be polite.
This is so true. Thank you for the great lesson!
Words of wisdom! I do often go to the original post and look around – have found some new favorite websites this way – but I don’t always comment. I’ll do better from now on because I read enough blogs to have an idea how much time and effort you bloggers put into your daily writings. I, too, am happy when I hear compliments of my child’s good manners because I think that is one of THE. MOST. IMPORTANT. things we can teach our children. Our society would benefit from more “please”s and “thank you”s in daily life.
I’m a blogger and I really appreciate this. I once saw a really negative comment about some tv segments I did on Facebook. The original poster had tagged my blog page, so I got to read exactly what the cool kids in college thought of me. (I am an old lady and a mother of three, so this bothered me a lot less than it might have a few years ago. I actually ended up having a nice dialogue, through private FB messaging, with one of the posters. I objected to his use of homophobic language to describe something I styled. I like to think he learned a lesson. He seemed like a nice young man. Yes, I know I live in a fantasy world.)
The weirdest thing I ever saw on Pinterest, though, was a picture of my children handing out programs at my cousin’s wedding. I guess someone downloaded it from Facebook and posted it. I came across it randomly and was actually flattered that someone thought they were cute enough to be Pinterest-worthy.
I wish I could share this article on the Google homepage. I’d say more people (myself included) could read this article at least once a month. Ann Marie from White House Black Shutters shared it on facebook – and well, damn – I’m gonna too!
Thanks for being so witty – it’s much appreciated.
I was sent here by a share on FB (Chaotically Creative). This is the first time I’ve visited your blog, but I will be back!
Greatness! Off I go to click around… 
I agree with it all! I’m not a blogger but have been following soo many of you guys over the past years. I love being inspired by blog posts and I completely agree with what you said about pinterest. It makes me upset when I share something on facebook that I made or a great recipe that I tried and everyone says “good ‘ol pinterest!” or pinterest strikes again” I say noooo I didn’t get this from pinterest, I got it from one of the blogs that I follow. 90 perfect of what I pin comes from blog posts that I’ve actually read and then pin myself. The other 10 percent is one I’ve clicked on from a friend, read the post, obviously liked it if I pin it and most likely have found a new great blog to follow. Everything has changed so much. I can only imagine how it makes you guys feel. Just know that you guys are appreciated for all the awesome stuff you do!
Wonderful post, BEAUTIFUL blog!
I found this on Pinterest just now : ) Thank you so much for such an important reminder of manners and kindness and I promise to never say “I found this on Pinterest” again. Thank you! I’m planning to share on my Facebook page to enlighten my buddies who love Pinterest, as well : )
I have to tell you i read your blog because i took the time to double click on a pinterest post!
but i have to say as much as i loved doing that when i first got on pinterest, i am very weary now…i have had many bugs almost crash my computer and the only different thing that i had been doing was clicking on different links on pinterest that sometimes brought me to wonderful blogs that i continue to follow and others that were dead ends (hence where i think the bugs came from). any advice on how to tell if your going to click on a scam? my husband almost wanted me to cancel my pinterest account because of it! anywho your right though…i say all the time, “i found it on pinterest” but i also realize that someone made it and that it is just pinned. at the same rate, i also have to say that i never would have found those blogs if it weren’t for pinterest. i wouldn’t even know how to begin searching for a blog. so pinterest has to get credit for that i guess! haha. great read today, glad i double clicked to follow the pin!
amen, lara! i am committed to be better.:)
I completely agree.
None of my friends are bloggers and very few every read blogs. They see them as ‘mommy sites’ which is completely ignorant and untrue. However, they all use Pinterest. Whenever they try something new from Pinterest and the question ‘How did you do that?’ comes up, I get the ‘I found it on Pinterest!’ answer. If I ask what site it was at, they look confused and say ‘Pinterest, I just said that.’
I’m going to share this post with them and hope that maybe they will start to understand the hard work bloggers really put in to all they do. Thank you so much for sharing your feelings!
So awesome and 100% true! Thank you for writing this, I am sharing wherever I can
I saw your picture on pinterest and wanted to find out more. I think most of us don’t understand what pinterest is all about. I see something I like and I always want to go to the source of where something comes from because I feel like if there is one interesting thing, then there are probably more. That’s what I found out here. I just subscribed to your blog. I want to say, thank you, good job, and I look forward to getting to know you better!
Thank you so much for sharing! I had no idea the cooments section is shared with the owner. Great way to share How Much their Work is Appreciated!!! I dont think most “pinners” know anything about the work behind the awesome ideas and certainly know little to no Internet manners – I also think most will be embarrassed and feel terrible because they didn’t know.
Thanks for the heads-up! I will try to remember to give feedback when I use an idea from one of my boards. It seems that we’re all in such a rush that we forget the people it took to get things done (or help spark an idea). Thank you, again for reminding me.
Thank you for this post, it really struck a note with me. I need to get better about pinning from the site. I do make a point of visiting the site before I pin everything. Thanks for this!
love, Love, LOVE this post! Thanks so much for putting it all out there!!!
I am pinning this to my board Playing with Pinterest because it is so true and such an A-Ha moment reading this post. I HAVE created crafts and recipes from many pins and not gone back to the website to say thank you. Such bad manners I have! And the comments I have made are suppose to be for my reference but yes, I didn’t really think about other people seeing my comments including the original pinner. I hope I haven’t been too critical. So new pinterest etiquette for me – if I use it, I will say THANK YOU.
Thank you for the reminder about manners. I also am very gratified when people are impressed by my kids’ manners. It’s a little sad, though, that it must be so very unusual for a kid to use good manners, that it is commented on so frequently!
I agree about Pinterest, too. I have been in the habit of getting to the original blog or link before pinning, so I know where the idea is coming from. I have found some amazing blogs that way!
I try to pin from the original source and if i make something and it turns out, i go to the blog and let them know with comments. I know Pinterest doesn’t make things, but its just easier to say i saw this idea on pinterest than this blog with a really long weird name that i had to translate from dutch to english.
Thank you for this. I went back through my pins and left feedback and a “thanks!” on the blogs of the ideas that I’ve tried. And I’ll continue to do so, because you’re right, it’s very important
I saw this article on fb…shared by Laura from Eye Candy Event Details….I am so happy I saw it! What a GREAT article. Well said…. and great way to put it into perspective for everyone! Love it….Going to share now….
Hey, I found this post on Pinterest!
Ah, the irony? Anyway, thanks for the good words, and I shall henceforth discontinue saying “I saw it on Pinterest” even when I am quoting quotes.
I admire you for bringing Internet Manners and the need for them to people’s attention. Too many of us now a days are to rushed, busy and self-absorbed that we tend to forget to say thanks, give credit and acknowledge hardwork and other people’s kindness and generosity. Way to go. I hope this blog post goes far.
I was already so impressed by how you explained the importance of giving credit. It’s simple to understand, you used examples and asked readers to put themselves in the original author’s shoes. It really drives the point across!
But I am so blown away by your bravery to share your facebook story. Not many would share her own mistake for the world to see. So you’re not just standing there preaching…you’ve been there, on both sides!
Thank you, thank you, for writing this post!
Thank you for this post! I think we all get caught up in our own things and forget to give credit where credit is due. I absolutely love your posts – they are always so thought provoking and just plain awesome. I always get so excited when I see your blog has been updated.
A wonderful reminder about how manners and kindness make the world a nicer place.
Lovely post. I have noticed that since I became a blogger (and Pinterest addict) myself, I have spent considerably less time reading and commenting on other people’s blogs. I put so much time and energy into my own posts and projects that I always feel I don’t want to spend more time on the computer reading and commenting. Because of this, I have been missing out on some great posts, and most of all missing the connections that come from friendships formed through blogging. Thanks for writing this. It was just the kick in the pants I needed to really go back to focusing on why I started blogging in the first place – the sharing, the inspiration, and the relationships. I’m re-pinning this post (which I did, in fact, find on Pinterest!) and sharing it on my Facebook page. I think I need to set a goal for myself to spend at least one day of my “computer time” each week doing nothing but catching up on my favorite blogs, tracking down actual original posts from Pinterest, and most of all…COMMENTING! Thanks for your thoughts.
So very true!! And I am guilty as well! even when I cautiously do the step by step tutorial with my laptop by the sewing machine, I say “Pinterest”! I do try to edit my “pins” judiciously to make sure they go to the correct site and permalink. Even when they point to a “feature” blog, I’ll pin to the tutorial. And the rudeness online! Oy!!! I agree with you all over that! I don’t understand why people think they have any privacy on the internet/FB/etc. I will Pin you forward and hopefully get the word out!
I get what you’re saying… but understand this: it’s not that big a deal. When I say, I saw that idea on Pinterest, it is to say just that… I saw the idea on Pinterest. Now, I realize some person, somewhere made it and that’s fabulous! GO PERSON! However, I wouldn’t have seen it were it not on Pinterest. So, there’s that. Secondly, people do use their words to flippantly, I agree with you there. But it’s not really the end of the world if someone didn’t like a pattern or a color, etc and say something like, “I’d actually make it cute.” Is that the nicest thing to say? No. Would I even type that? No. But my point is, we have different opinions about what is “cute” and I don’t think that’s something to get all hurt over. I’ve put a lot work in to many thing and not all of it is appreciated and so what? I didn’t do it for someone else to appreciate. I think the real issue is: what defines us? God defines me. Who I was created to be is so much more than what is said of me on Pinterest. I understand everything you’ve said and I actually, personally, like to credit the proper source and I do believe we should treat each other kindly. All I’m saying is that in the grand scheme of things, when we place things in proper perspective, it’s just not worth getting my panties in a bunch over what others say or don’t say.
And just so you know, I do appreciate that you value manners. Makes me smile and I mean that.
MANY BLESSINGS!
Amen.
Such an excellent post! I know I have felt like that all too often-like “why am I wasting my time making something, taking pictures, editing them, and writing up a post for no one?” That’s time spent away from my kids, my family. You’re absolutely right-we all like to feel appreciated! And we definitely need to be more aware of what we say online-my rule is if I wouldn’t say it to that person’s face, I shouldn’t be saying it at all. Thank you, thank you, thank you for this post!
I’m new to Pinterest but not new to being annoyed with the lack of internet etiquette. Thank you so much for the education and the reminder that there are authors/creators/designers behind all of these wonderful ideas we share. They deserve credit, appreciation, and (ALWAYS) respect. I can’t speak for anyone but me…. you’ve changed this Pinterest newbie. Thanks again!
Hi Miss Manners- I just wanted to stop by and say that I did find your blog via Pinterest and I so loved your post…but mostly because everything you had to say is spot on. I DO tell people I found things on Pinterest, but I also often say, “I got it from this one girls blog I found on Pinterest”. From now on, when I see something cool and I pin it to try later, I PROMISE you that I will go to that blog and give the blogger proper thanks! Thanks so much for pointing out the obvious elephant in the room, that no one could see!
Couldn’t have said it better myself! thanks for posting this. I would more and more people wouldn’t just stop at Pinterest and like you said actually visit the blog/website where that idea came from and leave a little love and appreciate more. Well said. Sharing now!
I agree with you 100%. I try to say I found that on Pinterest not Pinterest did it. I also try to link back to the original blog or source of the coolness. I think there are a whole lot of very talented people who like to share. I appreciate you all!! I don’t have time to “surf” blogs to find ones I like but I have been led to many I now follow from Pinterest posts. So to the people who blog and the people who post links to the creative geniuses THANK YOU!
This is all very true.
When I pin things, I do try to make sure its legitimate link to the actual creator/blogger/website.
I must say I’m guilty of not leaving comments on blogs that I really like (yours included!) Sometimes I dont feel like logging in or creating an acct., but compared to hard work the blogger just did for the post, I shouldnt complain
I read alot of blogs and sometimes I think: eh, they wont care about my comment being the 134th one.
I do understand the feeling or not getting any comments or praise on something you’re really pleased about., so I will do better!!
okay, this entire post was awesome. but the thing that really struck home with me was the comments on pinterest.
my daughters’ bunk bed room has garnered quite a bit of pinterest attention. and for the most part people pin and repin it with nice comments. but there are quite a few that just…grrr. the one that got to me the most was someone who compared it to a concentration camp. i wasn’t even angry for myself necessarily, as i was angry that someone would make such an unbelievably IGNORANT comparison–on so many levels.
oh well, thanks for giving me a place to vent. i resisted the urge to comment back…but it still irks me.
thAnks! i agree and will be mindful. great article!
Thank you so much for this article!! I think you pretty much nailed it. I am a new blogger and I am already experiencing much of what you have talked about here. I look at my stats and see how many people have clicked on my page from something that has been pinned and then look at the likes or comments on the post and it can be a little depressing. I admit, I will often wonder, “Okay, so did all of these people like my post or did they skim the page and decide that my tutorial sucks?”. I am happy to know that I am getting exposure from Pinterest but it would definitely be nice to get more feedback from that traffic as well. I make no money from my blog and I didn’t start it to make money, either. I started it to share my creativity with others, and the only currency I want in return is a reader’s comment, or a click on the like or follow buttons. However, I do so much enjoy blogging, so I am going to keep at it!
Thank you for reminding us to give credit, say thank you, and be respectful!!
Ironically I found your blog post on Pinterest. I think of it this way…………….If there were no bloggers there would be nothing to pin. I would not have found your blog if not for Pinterest. I get lots of traffic to my blog from pinterest even though they dont leave any comments – which to me is ok. I can see my stats, how many views and where they came form…..even though they didnt leave a comment they still looked……a lot!!
I think some bloggers got used to being “super star bloggers” with lots of comments and now due to the evolution of Pinterest feel less than superstars because they arent receiving the comments they used to. If they look at their stats Ill bet the the traffic hasnt changed (or maybe it has improved views like mine)……just the comments. Personally, I have found that Pinterest has drawn more views to my blog – comments or not. Pinterest doesnt require any talking, just looking (you will notice very few comments on the pins) so we have become used to not saying anything.
Maybe there is another issue with not leaving comments…..the dreaded word verification. Its become more difficult to read those twisted words and after a couple tries I just give up. I dont want the frustration and from what I have read out there I am not alone.
Keep up the GREAT blogging……we look but may not comment – not enough time to do everything.
Robin
Good points. I am guilty of saying I found this and that idea of Pinterest all the time. I am just so excited about Pinterest and want all my friends to know about it, and I always include a link directly to the original blogpost., so i guess that is okay?
But I do need to be better at thanking people when I craft something inspired or flat out copied from a blogpost.
Great post…Alison sent me! I don’t really enjoy Pinterest…it just is too much eye candy at one time. Great reminder on being nice.
Thanks for this article! I almost always check links on Pinterest but never thought to thank the blogger I will definitely be more mindful of my manners from now on!
Great post and so true! I try so hard to make sure I have the right links associated with my pins, but it never even occurred to me to go back and tell bloggers that I loved their tutorial. Thanks for making me think about it that way.
I seriously just fell in love with you. For realz. This is beyond words incredible.
All I can say is that you are FLIPPIN’ FANTASTIC!!!
Thank you for such an honest post. I’ll remember to credit the original blogger and not Pinterest. (PS: I found this post from Pinterest).
I love this post and am sharing it far and wide. Thanks for finding the perfect words to explain this. The Pinterst Didn’t Make That graphic is priceless.
You made us think about many things with this post. It´s true that we don´t give enough credit to other people´s work. I´ve found so many amazing things on pinterest (like this post!) and I´ve NEVER left a comment!! I will never do that again!
I like to think I have good manners, I really do, and I want to rise my children so they have them… but you kind of forget when you don´t have a person standing in front of you, nor on the phone…
Thanks!
I love this post so much I wanna make out with it. You are so right. Thank YOU for saying it and sharing it. And for owning up to your actions in the end. That is huge.
laughed out loud at that one;)
Thank YOU for sharing this. I’m not much for the blog scene, so this opened my eyes and will definitely be changing the way I use Pinterest. Thank you again!
you are so right! Preach it sister! Thank you for sharing, and for pointing out that even online manners matter.
I say “I found it on pinterest” all the time. This made me think a bit though. After reading this, I did a google search on something I made that ended up on pinterest and found that it was being sold on Etsy. Kind of a weird moment. Thanks for your thoughts!
very well said.
I, too, get annoyed at “I got it from Pinterest.” I understand FINDING through pinterest, but like you said, Pinterest doesn’t make things. People do. Pinterest is just a way people can find those people, their blogs, and their neat projects. Amen, sister!
Very well said! And thank you for sharing this!
xx
Anne
I wish there was some way to make this post mandatory reading for everyone who uses Pinterest…or, you know…the INTERNET.
Perfectly stated.
I read your…blog? Post? I’m not sure about the correct terminology. I felt a nudge to respond to a blogger about a recipe I have been using. It didn’t work out because I couldn’t figure out how to do it , but I tried. I apprecciate your pointing out the need to respond to ideas we try.
A really great read – thank you so much for putting it out there for everyone!
Thanks for this post. I usually check out the picture origin site, but rarely leave comments. do people know if a picture or post has been repinned? I know it’s not the same as reading it on your personal page but there is some recognition to it. either way thanks again something else to consider.
I Pinned this post, but I’m leaving a comment too.
After a day when I received more spam comments than actual, real comments on my blog post, this really hit home for me. It has become increasingly frustrating to put together good posts and watch feedback dwindle. I very very much appreciate the traffic I get from Pinterest, but I very very much miss the days when I got lots of comments and encouragement from readers and visitors. Everyone is so busy to link up, earn a feature, see how many times they can get a post Pinned, etc….it’s just too rushed for me. I don’t know which blogging superstars you were referring to, but I know how they feel.
I hope your post gets tons of clicks…it’s a great read for bloggers AND readers!
Hi there. I just dicovered your blog via Amanda via her pin. I’m not a big time blogger but I most certainly agree with you. I’ve been following blogs for about two years now and I have noticed over time how many have their ideas stolen. I don’t blog much and sometimes I go a whole week or two without reading blogs but I try to be cognizant of my blog hopping and try my best to leave a comment. If I don’t have anything nice to say then I just move on.
I too have been getting more traffic to my blog because of Pinterest but I rarely get a comment so it makes me wonder. I wonder if people like my ideas and are “wham bam thank you ma’am” and run off with my ideas or are like “meh, I’ve seen better.” Or what?! Again, I agree with your post and I thank you for it; and I’ll be sure to drop by more often.
This is one of the best posts, if not THE best, I have ever read regarding Pinterest and blogging and all the work that goes into it. I am amazed to see that a photo of mine has been pinned over 20,000 times, yet I don’t see any of those hits…sigh. And, like most, I make enough money to pay for the food that I blog about. Too bad those 20K hits went, or stayed, on Pinterest…
Great post! Something to really really think about, and share. Thank You!
Such a brilliant post!
It is so true, so many people think that us bloggers are making a fortune and living the high life. I spend hours on my blog, for pretty much no money and when I do get a comment that says thanks – it means everything!
Thanks for this information. I had no idea the things you mentioned. I try to follow a pic on Pinterest to the original website and have found some interesting things.
I’m a (brand) new blogger, and I actually got the nerve to blog FROM PINTEREST! So, though I know that there’s an army of really interesting people, fabulous shopping sites, and photographers galore, Pinterest created in me the courage to show what I know. When I started using Pinterest, I did not credit any of the sites I pinned from. I have started giving credit where credit is due. Maybe others can learn to do the same and drive traffic back to the bloggers sites.
This is simply fabulous! I have shared it on Facebook and Pinterest- such an important lesson in etiquette! xo
Thank you for bringing this to our attention! I, just as many others, can’t get enough of Pinterest! I, also, am 100% guilty of not giving credit where it is due, and that is all going to change now. I try to go to the original source when I “repin” something, but many times I am lazy and just repin from the last person who saw it, and it may be a link of a link to the original recipe/craft/idea. On the opposite side of your argument, I have come across many new blogs via Pinterest that I now follow and love, and may have never known about otherwise. It is a fine line that I wasn’t really aware existed, but now will be conscious of for the respect of the blogger!
Thanks for sharing. Starts me thinking about my pinterest manners. I’m a lazy pinner. I just like so much that I couldn’t possibly check out all the sources, could I?
I’ll try to re-educate myself. Starting by writing a comment.
Thanks, again!
Amen sistah!!! “I saw it on Pinterest” is one of my biggest pet peeves! Thanks for this and I’ll be sharing on my FB. Love it!
I might be the lone wolf here, but I’m not sure if I agree. Maybe because I’m a blog reader, and not a blogger. Doesn’t Pinterest help bring traffic to your blog? How else would I find your blog if not for Pinterest (or in my case, Twitter)? And do bloggers really do it all just for the credit and applause? Makes me think a little less of bloggers, if that’s the case.
What a great post! I honestly couldn’t agree with you more. So glad that someone, you, finally wrote this:)
I found a link to your post via Facebook. So glad I stopped by and I’ll be back again.
I agree to a point. When I say “I got the idea from Pinterest”, I did. The person posted to an internet site (Pinterest) so the idea is on the webpage “Pinterest”. Would it be better if I posted as my Facebook status “wow- the idea I got from blogger named Mary Smith really sucked and she has no idea how to make a craft?” No- I would rather not call out an individual person. Just my 2 cents.
Thanks for your thought provoking post. You brought up points I hadn’t considered. I really do appreciate how Pinterest can bring so much great information to one place but I agree that it would be nice if the original posters would get better credit.
Uhm. Calm down. Bloggers are all so self-absorbed anyways. They write and post pictures and just wait for people to “like” them or comment about how amazing everything is on the blog. Gasp…I can’t believe that bloggers just want to quit now because they don’t get the recognition they feel they deserve. Spare me.
I am going to say “I got this idea from Pinterest” all the time now. Spread the word. Pinterest is amazing. Blogs are annoying and Pinterest is a great way to get past all of these arrogant “writers.’
You are SO right!! And thank you for taking the time to write this. I totally agree about manners and have often felt that for all the benefits that technology offers, there are also an equal amount of risks to human relations and behavior. Thank you for the reminder of what we all (hopefully) learned in kindergarten….if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all!
Loved this. What a great reminder. I’ll be sure to visit and comment on all the blogs now.
Just add this to the big fat list of reasons I love and admire you so much. Thanks for making me think about what I do a little deeper.
Hey there Lara– I’ve tried to be a responsible pinner since I read a post similar to this one almost a year ago. And it is tricky. I sometimes spend 20 minutes trying to find the original source. I follow a lot of bloggers boards on Pinterest, but I also follow a number of friends aren’t addicted to the craft and DIY blogs in the same way I am. I’m really grateful to bloggers out there like you who’ve helped me make my home a more colorful and happy place. Knowing how important it is for a blogger to attract traffic to their website, I’m amazed and often frustrated when I see that even the bloggers boards I follow and try so hard to pin respectfully, don’t do this for their colleagues
Hope you’re hanging in there!
“BE KIND TO ONE ANOTHER.” Amen.
I vow to comment on all those posts that inspire me daily. Thanks for the inspiration and reminders!
Oh, and I love the video you included. Going to show my 9 year old.
Amen!
would you PLEASE get out of my head dear!!! HAHA I LOOOOVE this! I can’t TELL you how many times I’ve complained about people, my own mother included, saying “I found it on Pinterest”……do people find a recipe and say, I found the recipe on google? – no, they may say I googled it and found xxxx site – why is that so hard with Pinterest.
And the rude comments! oh brother, they are in full force lately – on Pinterest AND FB!
any way, thanks for putting it out that Lara!!
Wonderful post!! And such a great reminder for all!! Thank you for taking the time to write such a well needed & well written post!! Well said!! – Lori
LOVE IT!!! Thank you for the post!
I always say “I found it on Pinterest” because that is where I found it. I don’t feel that I’m being rude at all. Before Pinterest I read 4-5 blogs a day because that’s all I had time for. That’s what I feel is so great about Pinterest is that I can see a lot more ideas from the blogging world than I would of never seen before. If there is something I want to see more of I will click on the blog. I have more time to pin and then go to that blog post if I decide to make something like it. I don’t know if you’re just talking about blogging manners. But if someone asks me about something I tell them I got the idea from Pinterest. And if they want the link I give them the blog.
Personally, it’s more about people who copy it and re-write about it and the credit Pinterest and not the original blogger. THey simply write, “I found this on Piniterest.” Nothing more. If you are not publishing the things you are making and just telling your friends and family I don’t see the big deal but if you are writing about them and crediting Pinterest and not the source it is very frustrating.
I really appreciate this post. I see a lot of comments on pinterest asking for the recipe or what not on certain pins and I always want to tell them to follow the links! One thing I would like to add for bloggers is of you have a person leave a comment (especially if they are asking questions) is it is your best interest to respond. I have left many comments (questions) on certain blogs with no response at all. It does not make me feel inclined to return. Which is a bummer because some of them are sites I really enjoyed!
I am really thankful for all the work bloggers do!
So beautifully said! I love that you kind of hit the nail on the head when you spoke of how discouraging blogging can be without all the support of the readers. Such a great reminder.
Well written! I wanted to stand up and applaud when I finished reading. I also pinky-swear that I will not say that I “got” anything from Pinterest. I may have “seen” it but did not “get” it…I get it!! When I pin a recipe (or whatever) from a site that I love I include the website in my description, that way others can see where it is from.
I agree 100% that ‘found it on Pinterest’ is not the proper way to credit…how on earth are you supposed to find it, now?? It’s like saying “I found it on Google”. As much as I love Pinterest and all the traffic it has sent my way, it’s the reason after 4 years of blogging I’ve started watermarking my photos because like you said, I do put in a lot of work and time on my posts and projfects. With so many people repinning improperly and taking photos as their own, I’m marking my territory. They may use the idea and pass it off as their own, but they won’t be using my photos anymore to do so. Which I’ve seen A LOT!
If I can’t find a direct source, I don’t pin it. Period. If it’s awesome enough, I will track down the original source, and that’s a pain, but I equate it with posting it on my blog. I wouldn’t post about anything without proper credit and linkage. But I guess I’m old-fashioned that way…I still send out paper thank you cards
Such a beautiful piece of writing! Love it! And so true too. Love Pinterest and from now on will try my best to credit the ppl behind the ideas.
Absolutely love this. So very true. Pinterest is fabulous in so many ways. I love seeing my recipes pinned and shared. Then I see my recipes completely copied into the text under the photo on Pinterest and almost want to cry. I don’t think most people have any idea the amount of work we put into creations, photography and posts. Credit where credit is due is one of those rules we should all grow up with and apply to everything. Thank you for putting into words what I know so many of us think!
Thank you. Very well put! I will be conscious in the future of visiting and commenting on the blogs that my pins come from!
I will definitely make more of an effort to comment when I read an article or see a tutorial that I enjoy. I always was afraid to comment before because I felt like a stalker. It was interesting to see it from the author/creators point of view. Great post!
Your way with words is amazing! Can I request manner lessons become a regular thing here on LCMF?
Very nicely done!! We should remember that Pinterest is just another tool to help us organize the amazing ideas that we find ELSEWHERE. I have such mixed feelings about the ‘repinning’ – I think I would enjoy Pinterest more if all pins were original, if everyone had to pin from the source and not just a frenzy of clicking on the repin button. Beautiful post – thank you!
Love this! Thanks for sharing! I feel the EXACT same about pinterest. I find even people dumb down the projects I’ve made by saying ‘oh that’s from pinterest’, like it’s no big deal that I actually MADE something instead of just ‘pinning’ it! Drives me nuts! Anyways I really appreciate this post and I will be sharing it
Great words, really timely too!!! Thank you!!
Thanks for your insightful post. I too have been the victim of hurtful comments and messages via FB. It’s just unnecessary. “If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all” is definitely a creed I try to live by.
I don’t really use Pinterest but I do write a blog of my own. I love feedback. But so many people a just spectators and don’t get involved. I love to read comments and constructive criticism. I will make more of an effort to comment on blogs and posts that I read in the future
Beautifully put! People laugh/make fun of… that I “like/comment” on so many FB pages, but seriously??? it takes seconds and I know how it makes me feel. I know our self worth/identity isn’t based in comments, but i look at it as giving the gift of encouragement. What person (esp women!) don’t need that!!???
Thx again <3 KINDNESS RULES!
LOVED this Post!!! Very well said and so very true!! Very inspiring as well! Thanks for sharing this and for making all of aware of these things!
Warmly,
~Suzanne
GUILTY as charged!!!! And as of today I am on notice! I will STOP saying, “Got it from pinterest!” I WANT to give credit where credit is due! Thank you for your post and for bringing this to my/our attention! I love Pinerest for bringing these wonderful post to our attention. It is just a vehicle! I will look for where it originated from and thank THAT person!
Lara, Thank you for posting something we all need to remember. I adore pinterest for the ideas and inspiration. I have found and bookmarked so many blogs as a result but have never been big on commenting. Knowing I might lose the blogs I have discovered and go back to regularly will be great motivation for me to comment. Thank you
Cheers, very inspiring and a good thing to remember… I also struggle with the quitting blogging. I am tired of putting my heart and soul into something… It is good to have a check in about pinterest and other forms of social media…
Megan
Hi, I am going to start by giving credit to Glory of Glorious Treats for sharing your post on FB. I read your post and it made me very sad, I wonder if there would be a way to block ones blog from being “pin-able”? In the end isn’t the point of blogging to make money, if no one is coming to the blog how on earth is that going to work? It is hard to justify hours of work with no revenue? How does Pinterest make money what is their point? I do visit Pinterest but I am not an avid pinner I hate to pin since I worry folks will know what I am up to. I am always floored when I read mean comments; it takes them a whole 3 seconds to slam someone’s efforts. How or who creates this condensed photo instructions collages of the blog posts where words are not even necessary, those really upset me and I see those all over Pinterest. Thanks for your post it was very thought provoking, I hope this lesson in internet etiquette gets multiple shares.
Lara – you are the best, girl!!! No one could have said it better!!
Love ya!!
Good feedback and reminders about good manners and common decency!
I’ve just recently started reading blogs, so thanks for the guidelines. You know, something I’ve noticed: I frequently leave comments on peoples’ blogs…it really is impressive some of the trouble some of these folks go to….and I’ll leave a compliment or ask a quick question….the thing I’ve noticed is that I very rarely get a response. Some bloggers even post on their blogs something along the lines of , “I don’t always respond, I’m just so busy, but I appreciate your comments, and you are all so important to me.” That’s kind of nice, but it also kind of implies that the blogger’s time is more important than the reader’s time. 
Anyway, the only two bloggers that I can remember responding to me were browneyedbaker (she answered a question I had asked- and quickly, too- the very next day), and TidyMom who responded to a compliment I wrote after serving a recipe of hers that was really good. So it’s great to comment, and it’s also great to hear back. 
That really makes it feel like a connection. Thanks, browneyedbaker and TidyMom! <3
What a wonderful post. I never looked at it the way you just put it. I usually do click through to find the original post, so often to make sure that the actual directions are there, not just a picture from AOL or Google, as has been the case on more than one occasion. I have been guilty of saying, “found this on Pintrest”, because I did, in fact find it there originally. But from now on, I will leave a comment on the bloggers page, if I am actually going to try it. You know, I pin tons that I will probably never attempt… but just looking at it makes me think I want to! Thank you m’am, for teaching me some internet etiquette.
I truly do love you!! Thanks for writing this, and putting it out there!! I too have used the “I found it on Pinterest” but not anymore!! Thanks for being you!!
Nadine
This is a very thoughtful suggestion. I have a thought about not saying “I found it on Pinterest”. I assume that people who use Pinterest know what it is – a gathering place to save picture files for pleasure or future ideas. So when I’m saying (if ever), “I found it on Pinterest,” I’m really saying I found it on this great idea-gathering place called Pinterest. I think that’s pretty clear.
Thank you.
I appreciate what you’re saying, and it seems many have had this criticism of this article. However, if you notice, the article asks people to not say “I got this idea from Pinterest”. Which I hope we can all agree is a very different thing. And it commonly said. Obviously discovering things on Pinterest is the thing that is great about it. But the site, on it’s own, doesn’t come up with ideas. And that’s what I’m asking people to consider. I do however, appreciate the kind manner that you gave your thought….as a few others have maybe not been as respectful.
Thank you for this lesson. I never read blogs before I discovered Pinterest. Pinterest has been the vehicle to get me to the blogs, but I have never taken the time to comment on a blog before todya. From now on when I visit a particularly inspiring blog I will take the time to express my appreciation.
Thank you so much for posting. I was completely unaware of the blogger etiquette. I never would consider being unkind on the Internet or in person, however I did not know how important it was to the person posting to see the comments. I always looked at it as if someone else posts/repins your item, that was a compliment and comment was not necessary. I will be more aware in the future. Thank you again for posting.
Lara – I cried when I read this. cried. You are such an amazing writer. I have been feeling so down lately and I just love you so much. Thanks for being such an awesome friend. I love you
xoxo
Hi, I want to thank you for putting in the time to write this post. There are such amazing truths in everything you’ve said! I am afraid I haven’t been the most mannered reader of blogs or user of Pinterest but I will be sure to change my ways. I never did think leaving comments meant so much- I’ve always assumed the bloggers don’t read them or don’t want to read them (because many can be negative). I will be sure to leave happy comments about all the wonderful ideas and beautiful things I come across (starting now!)
Thanks!
Well said, so glad you took the time to say these things, they are important and we all need reminded now and again.
Very well said! It is a big problem these days that people forget curtsey and common sense and just write what the the feel like. I admit that on my person page and Facebook I do that too sometimes. Not on purpose but it slips out there.
However, I always credit the person that I got a recipe from. I can’t remember if I ever did anything specif off Pinterest but be assured I credit the blog. I think I should start commenting on the recipe that was offered and giving my perspective, linking back to my page so people can see what others do with their recipes. That way one can form friendship (hopefully).
One thing: I didn’t know the comment thing. I guess I should go and look at that but then, my page is not so big that people pin a bunch off of it.
Thanks for the post btw. Well done!
I love this post. It’s funny I am in the process of writing a blog post about Pinterest. It’s got it’s pluses and minues. Thank you for taking the time to write this!
OK – I totally get where you are coming from, honestly I do. And I am just as frustrated by the folks on Pinterest who only ‘collect’ for lack of a better work, pretty pictures in their boards and never have a clue, or sense enough, to visit the source or even be aware there is a source.
But it’s a double sided coin. For every person who pins your project without viewing thru, there are twenty who never in a million years would have landed on your page/blog/group, etc. had they NOT seen it on Pinterest to begin with. Just because nineteen of those don’t leave a comment or compliment doesn’t make the post any less well received or appreciated. I visit 50+ blogs a day, and no, I don’t leave comments everytime, truthfully I only leave comments with questions or on something outstanding.
I think part of what you have to ask is are you blogging for compliments, or are you blogging because you want to share your life/projects/inspirations? I expect the latter is more often the case, and the nature of our internet beast is a huge amount of contact from users that we will never even know were on our sites. I don’t mean this to be negative at all, I just think sometimes you have to take the good with the bad and be grateful for every visitor you get, regardless of how they got there.
Spot on Lara! I love that you took the time to write what we (bloggers) have all thought at one point and touched our hearts at the same time. xo
Kudos to you for an amazing post that resonates with so many! I’m a blogger who loves a pat on the back now and then, but I’m equally guilty of not blessing those whose ideas have inspired me. Thanks for the gentle reminder.
I love your post! Someone who;s blog I posted pinned this on their board and i will be repinning it great post. I happen to peruse the blogs where things I pin come from and i have started following a few blogs as a result but I don’t always acknowledge them and the work they do thanks for opening my eyes. Happy Blogging and Happy pinning!
What a wonderful post and how you speak the truth. Sometimes we don’t think before we speak. Hopefully more people will take note and try and be better.
Fab!!
great post and so true. pinterest is great, but it’s great because of all those bloggers and wonderfully creative people who share. guilty as others for saying “found it on pinterest” but doing my best to make sure i know where it comes from. i try and take the link right to the person’s site, then pin it from their site, so in the description it lists the website from where it came from, as opposed to just repinning the picture and saying cute craft or looks yummy. helps everyone to see that the great picture actually came from somewhere.
thanks for the great post!
GREAT post and such great humor! I too love pinterest and have started following many blogs that I found via Pinterest. I am also guilty of giving Pinterest credit and promise to correct the phrasing. Thanks for a great post!
Thank you for this post, I hope it goes “viral” and everyone who uses social media, Facebook, Twitter, G+, and yes Pinterest will think first before commenting.
Hi, I stopped by your blog to read this post that Tausha posted on Facebook. Just thought I’d let you know that I read your post and I completely agree with you. You have now inspired me to avoid telling people I got ideas from pinterest, to BE MORE NICE online and to be courteous and let people know I like what they’ve shared. So…….thank you for great advice, it does need to be taught. I hadn’t really given bloggers that kind of courtesy before. Not because I don’t care, but because I really hadn’t thought of it. Sad. I had considered myself more thoughtful than that. But thank you for the lesson!
Thank you. I love this post – I stumbled on it through Pinterest. From the points you’ve raise to the suggestions you’ve offered, you’ve articulated what many of us are feeling perfectly.
There is an extraordinary level of rudeness on the Internet and there are days when the kindnesses and support received through blogging are dwarfed by the crassness. Some seems to be a basic lack of respect for other people and their work, but there are times when the situation and people involved are such that it can only be an intentional behavior choice.
There have been times where I have wanted to leave an anonymous comment “outing” someone I know is lying, stealing, cheating, whatever… but I don’t. Because as you write, there is no reason to be unkind. Blanche DuBois said it best – “deliberate cruelty is unforgiveable.” (Proper attribution to Tennessee Williams… he “said” it first.)
Thank you again for a lovely, thoughtful, timely post.
I have never been a blog reader, but with Pinterest, I have read and found the most interesting blogs. Now I am starting to return again and again to a few. You need to let your fellow bloggers know that while people may not always leave a comment, a pin in and of itself is a compliment. It is the pinner’s way of saying “this is fantastic” without using words, because the picture is worth a thousand words. These pins are bringing new people, like me who never thought blogs were for them, to blog sites. Perhaps not everyone on Pinterest will be a new blog reader, but some of us do dig beyond the pin to learn more about the work and sometimes life of the originator.
I have seen a couple of bloggers touching on this subject. So I have been more aware of citing the original source and checking a link before I pin. Thank you!
Thank you so much for writing this post! We have all felt this way at some point ~ thanks for putting it out there! Sometimes I think manners have gone by the wayside, due to new technology. I work hard on teaching my kiddos good manners and take pride with I’m told they have such good manners! So many people “hide” behind the computer and it’s sad some have to be so negative and mean. Thank you again!!! I hope you have a Super Great Day with a whole lot of bloggie love and appreciation!
Hello,
I have, for the record, never been to your blog before. I saw someone mention this post on pinterest an felt…compelled to come and read. And, wow. Just. Wow.
On wednesday I am speaking to a youth group full of junior high and high school students who have no idea the impact of their words on social media. No. Idea. This is exactly what I needed to read. It is beautiful and so needed. Thank you.
Hannah
Love it all. I am such a big advocate of leaving a 10 second comment. Not all the time…just every once in a while. We do need a little bit of affirmation to keep going…talking to the air is just no fun, even if we do see the numbers. I wrote a little bit of a similar pinterest rant a while ago here http://kristendukephotography.com/the-great-pinterest-debacle/ Thanks, Lara!
Great insight. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Great post! I am so glad you wrote this! It made me think about how I can be a better Pinterest user and reminded me how important comments are on a blog. It’s one of the main reasons I stopped posting on my blog…I got tired of putting out all this effort and never getting any comments.
I love this!!! I think that’s why I try and follow every photographer whose pictures I pin! I love to see their other work besides just what “got them on Pinterest.” Thanks for posting this!!
This is so perfectly, and gracefully written. I purposefully don’t look up things pinned from my blog, even though I know exactly how easy and quick it is to do. I once read a negative comment on pinterest and I made a decision to never look again. It’s not worth giving away little slivers of my tender heart to perfect strangers.
Nice reminder. Funny video. My mil got my son a sweater this last Christmas that is just like the one the boy wore. Made me laugh. Thanks
Wow, thank you so much! You have enlightened me. It’s something(even as a fellow blogger) I never thought about. From now on I’ll be more conscientious of my “internet” actions.
Thanks,
Kara
One hundred million percent agree!! You hit many of the reasons why I decided to take a step back from blogging myself.
Great job, Lara. And don’t pay attention to the haters… I read a few of those nasty comments. Ugh ugh ugh. This needed to be said!
Such a wonderful post! Thank you for writing it and speaking for all of us and to all of us.
Stopping by to say thanks
I definitely agree with this and often have told people at work “I got it from pinterest…the blog it’s from is amazing!” I think the problem is: not all blogs are as easy to comment on as yours! You have to sign up with a specific website or one of five specific websites. I’ve gone to say thanks, offer my input or additions been confronted with login bs and thought “eh…I’ll do it later…I hate signing up on my phone…” I really do hope your blog changes the way we communicate about pinterest! I will certainly be repinning it as Pinterest really should be expanding the blogging community, not hindering it.
Love thissssss, and love you! I wish everybody on the Internet could read this. Ironically, a few days ago I saw a pin of one of my family pictures on Pinterest and there was a comment saying, “this picture would be so cute if the kids didn’t look so miserable.” really, are people that rude that they have to actually write that? That picture is actually one of my favorites, and though my kids arent smiling (they were under two which is hard to make two year olds smile), i still think they are cute! This article put a lot of things in perspective! Great job!
love love love! thank you for your post. i shall pin it now.
Thank you for this! I enjoy all the ideas to be found on the net and need to be reminded to thank more of the wonderful prople for sharing their work with the world.
This is an awesome post. I am fairly new to Facebook & Pinterest. This gave me food for thought. I will work on slowing down and acknowledging all the hardworking posters for a job well done and for inspiring me.
Thank you very much!
Love This!!! I especially liked the Pinterest stuff. I participated in a local market recently and received a few comments like:
- oh i saw this on pinterest
- did you start making these after seeing them on pinterest
- ohhh im going to make these tonight, they are easy.
yep. truth. I held my tongue, but wanted to shout ‘noooooo i’ve been around since before pinterest and you probably are pinning my images!’ Sometimes I actually see stuff from my shop pinned with comments like ‘i could make this cheaper’ or ‘im making this soon’.. its really hard to not comment back or feel like crap after all my hard work almost seems pointless.
But what I always have to remember- I get to do what I love, and that makes it all worth it! I loved this post so much, xo
Thanks for reminding of an important lesson.
I wasn’t quite old enough to star in the 1951 video but not far off. When I was young manners were really important at home and especially at school. I never experienced bullying or rudeness but now it’s a fact of life.
Thanks for this reminder that anyone can be anonymous and still be nice. It costs nothing and everyone feels better.
As for the Pinterest bit, I’m amazed at the number of people who’ll save a photo they see to their “photo gallery” and then post it on Pinterest. Makes me gag.
Great post… love it!
Well said. Thank you!
I found this on Pinterest…..and it is absolutely SO true. Thank you for taking the time to educate us. I will not look at a pin the same way ever again!
Girl you have such a wonderful way with words! You totally were able to say what I have been feeling lately but couldn’t put my finger on it!!! Hopefully blogging can go back to the uplifting thing it was a few years ago. We all need the encouragement some days to keep up…even when we love what we do! Thank you so much for writing this..I hope it makes a difference in the way people treat Pinterest!!!!
Thank you for the Reminder and the Etiquette guide to Pinterest posts, I do go to the original site as much as possible. I have found out a whole new world of the magnificent Bloggers whose talents have allowed some of us to appreciate what they do. I applaud their talents for writing, photography and often quick wit and would not even have known they exist without Pinterest. I will make every effort to acknowledge the individual and to leave a comment. I use my boards as a place to dream…wish…relax… be inspired and also eliminate excess paper – but absolutely never to disrespect anyone!! Thank you again.
This is great! My main problem is I don’t know how to “follow through” to find who originally “pinned” something……. Not even sure how to contact the original poster so I’ll see if this is how and work on it from now on. Thanks so much, I am a crazy person about manners in the real world.
Great article! I found this on Pinterest,
and may it be pinned just for the sake of getting around and reminding people simple manners. It’s important, to women especially, to feel noticed and validated.
Wonderful reminder for all of us, thank you! I just spent some time on your blog and want to tell you that I love your spirit and outlook! And thanks to this post I’m commenting, which is something I’m usually too shy to do
.
Thank you for sharing your insights and lessons. I am guilty of saying, “I found it on Pinterest!” and not really giving credit to the originator. I’m glad you brought that up.
This was an AWESOME post! Loved it!
Thank you for taking the time to write this post. You’re points are dead on (although I don’t dislike the word “crafting”
). I will certainly make a point of spending more time thanking the original bloggers.
May I also suggest that pinners make sure that the links actually go to the original source and aren’t just a dead end? I don’t mind clinking a time or two to get to the original source, but a pin that’s been repinned and links to no-man’s land is such a waste of time and resources.
I’ve also taken to politely commenting on pins that are proven not to work (watered down glue is not homemade Mod Podge) or lead to malicious sites (I pay good money for an anti-virus program) or leads to something completely different than what is pictured.
Again, thanks!
What a great read! Thank you for sharing light into the wonderful world of Pinterest. I had not thought of all the great bloggers out there who are getting discouraged. I remind my three boys to use their manners daily. Now, I’ll have to do better on my “Pinterest Manners” !
I think this is all a bit dramatic. If bloggers only blog to get a pat on the back then I think they have bigger concerns than a few missed comments.
EXACTLY! This felt more like a rant because one didn’t get recognition. I do see a lot of things on Pinterest, that is where they’re posted. I always read the blog where it originates so they’re getting traffic on their site. If the blogger didn’t want to share with the whole world, then why are they blogging? I’m not a rude person online or in real life. I just felt like this was a bit rude telling others how to act because they weren’t being PC with the internet. I comment when necessary, like now.
Musicians initiate lawsuits when songs are used, brands beef up their copyright and trademark laws, celebrities complain about photos being used without permission… why can’t a blogger want to be credited if something of theirs is used??
If i do something and you see it online then go make it and make money off it or claim it as your own, thats rude. thats all.
Musicians initiate lawsuits when songs are used, brands beef up their copyright and trademark laws, celebrities complain about photos being used without permission… why can’t a blogger want to be credited if something of theirs is used??
If i do something and you see it online then go make it and make money off it or claim it as your own, thats wrong.. thats not me wanting a pat on the back.
even worse…I just tried googling a tutorial…and ALL that came up were pinterest accounts. Talk about completely steering traffic away!
Thanks for sharing!
I could not agree more! I always click to the original blog or site of the post, but when someone asks where an idea or recipe come from, I tell them, “pinterest”. I haven’t thought about it until now, but it’s oh so true. Credit must be given where credit is due!! Thank you for reminding us. : )
I am just an ordinary girl who was introduced to Pinterest this spring and love it. I confess I didn’t really know that there was such a thing as good manners for Pinterest other than not making snarky comments.Thanks for pointing this out so kindly and I promise I will do better.
Shoot. I should have commented yesterday when you posted…Another brilliant post from my amazingly talented friend.
Then again, I’ve really had time to think about this and to read the many comments. There’s a comment that has been made a few times that has really bothered me and I am going to take a minute to address it…
I am a blogger. I am not a blogger to say look at me (I rarely post photos of myself or talk about myself). I am not a blogger to say hey validate my post/project. I am a blogger because I love being a part of an incredibly amazing community of women. A community that has provided me with a group of friends I never, ever would have even dreamed to have on my side. I am a blogger because I love dialogue and the exchange of great ideas.
I don’t want you (the reader) to comment on my post because I want attention or because I think I am fabulous. I want you to comment because if you like what I like, I think we might be friends…Call me crazy, but it’s a process that has proven to be one of the greatest blessings of my life.
Love your guts Lara. xoxo
perfectly said Tauni!! Many of my online friends have been made thru comments!
An absolutly necessary and fantastic post!, I am going to repin it hopping others can read it, and also appreciare and be aware that pinterest is a wonderful tool we can use to see incredible lots of ideas at the same time, but behind are lots of creative people who deserves credit for fillling us with extraordinary inspiration.
Pardon me if my english is not so good, it’s not my first language.
I agree, but I think pintrest has created a new kind of blogger fame. If you have a highly pinned project, that is testament to its creativity, the photography, or general awesomeness. Pintrest has exposed me to numerous bloggers that I might never would have discovered before. I would love to be pinned and repinned, what a compliment!
A pintrest etiquette I’d like to suggest is checking your resins for an accurate source. I check almost every pin so I’m not sending garbage around. I hate broken links.
Thank you for this! I’m going to share it on Facebook to get the idea out there. I just started on Pintrest and would hate to think that I offended or upset anyone but I honestly had no idea about Blogging Manners. Thank you!
The Internets needed to hear this! I found this post on Pinterest (via one of my favorite bloggers, Amanda) I was a very early user of Pinterest and it has changed so much. I try very hard to pin from the original source. I’ve discovered so many great new blogs (including now this one!) that I would have missed out on if not for Pinterest though. Thanks for the reminder about commenting on blogs. For whatever reason, I haven’t done that as often lately. Thanks for sharing!
As a blogger, I so appreciate this. Love Pinterest but sometimes it can be frustrating because of the reasons you mentioned.
THANK YOU for being open and honest about this and challenging us all to be more polite – sometimes it’s hard to remember that when you’re online polite rules should still apply.
Now I’n going to go repin this.
THANK YOU THANK YOU
so true and this is something that will change the way I look at Pinterest
I am So guilty of saying uh hum where I found something So I will start giving credit where it is deserved
Also I want to point out a lot of people don’t even see the connection of blogging and Pinterest super sad
Pinterest killed my Reader !!!
I am a first time reader. I found you through Jessica at Allorahandmade. I just wanted to say thanks for such an inspiring post! I loved every bit of it and I think everything you said is so true.
That was an excellent post, wish everyone could read it.
Well done and point taken. I actually have started commenting more on the blogs I visit in hopes that they will keep producing great ideas that make my mother in law think I am Martha Stewart!
Carry on my friend … We are listening !
Excellent!!!! Should be read by ALL internet users. Thank you.
I’m loving this post! thank you soo much for sharing!
I’ve been blogging for a few months, and whenever someone comments or sends me a email about how they love something I did or made, I makes me feel so happy 
Xoxo
Gracias por compartir. Thanks for sharing this. I think it should be required reading for anyone blogging and interacting with blogs!! Is it OK if I pin it to bring it greater attention? This world would be a much nicer place if everyone paid more attention to manners. Abrazos, Tanja
I really loved this post – and the number of comments clearly state that most of us feel that way. To me, blogging is a way to interact with others. Pinterest may be pretty, but if you never go back to the original site this idea was pinned from, you never get to see all those other great project that this blogger has going on. I try to leave a comment on most posts that I read, even if it’s just short – I see it as some sort of calling card. I was here, I liked it, good job. Not that hard, really =)
Thank you so much for this post. I am sometimes guilty of quickly repinning something, but I try very hard to click through to the original site and pin from there. I also take that opportunity to follow that blog if I like it. I have found so many amazing blogs that way…LIKE YOURS!!!!
I live in a shoebox apt in San Francisco, so space for projects is extremely limited. Most of my pins are for “someday”, “one day” and “down the road”. I have been really trying to go back to my old pins (before I had manners
) and repinning from the original blogs/sites. There have been a shameful amount of pins that were dead ends. The upside is that, by doing image searches in Google, I have been able to track most of my beloved pins back to their original source.
Once again, thank you for sharing this post with us. My favorite thing about Pinterest is the serendipity. You just never know what you will stumble across. I want to keep these beautiful minds creating, so I will be more mindful from now on.
What a wonderful article. thank you so much for sharing. I often click through to the site before hitting repin, and I’m always astounded at how many dead ends there are. I must confess that while i usually click through to the site I’m pretty bad at leaving comments, but I’m endeavouring to change that and as I found you through a pinterest link (I thought I’d leave a big THANK YOU and hopefully a smile
Thank you! I am a habitual pinner. Do make things from the pins but I rarely comment on the blog. THIS post has changed me. I have actually subscribed to several blogs, read them faithfully via Google Reader but also fail to go back to the original post and comment. That changes today. Thank you for opening my eyes!
It’s incredible, I found this article on Pinterest! And I just wanted to thank you for your honesty! We should remember every day those few rules of good manners! And this “internet world” will be much more better! thank you again!
Great post. I make it a point to say “I saw this PINNED on Pineterest.” Another thing that bothers me is when I follow a pin back to the “source” only to find a list of picture/craft titles that link to other sites. If you like an idea PLEASE pin to the original site. It is good manners and it saves me time trying to hunt down the directions for a project I’d like to try out. Having said that, I am guilty of pinning things “to check out later” without tracing them all down.
I love this! I actually use Pinterest in a different way than I think others are using it – I use it as a kind of ‘bookmark list’. I pin the pictures to a board, and use that as a reference to the blog that I want to go to. I think of Pinterest as a fantastic way to discover other people’s blogs! I have found so many home improvement and cooking blogs that I didn’t know existed before Pinterest.
Thanks for posting this reminder about being kind on the internet. We used to tell people at work to think about the newspaper test – how would you feel if what you wrote about someone’s blog or fb page or whatever was published in the newspaper? Granted that this was a few years ago when newspapers were still being read, but you get the idea
.
One of the best things about Pinterest is it leads me to a whole new world of bloggers which is how I found you! It’s a wonderful article with loads of nice tips to share.
I will start my internet ettiquette here. Thank you for this post, it makes a great point. I do try and make sure I pin directly from websites (rather than pin of a pin off of someone’s site linking to so and so… you get it, right?) But I never thought to just stop in and say, “Hey I’m stealing this for inspiration. I love ____ about this project.” A new day has begun
THANK YOU!
I agree 100%, Ellie. Respect along with good manners would go a long way in making this a better world. Love this blog. Have a nice day!
This was an awesome read! It really put things in perspective for me in regard to “giving credit where credit is due”! I truly had not ever thought of that and will be giving all of my Pinjas the HEADS UP!
You totally made me rethink my pinterest use. I have been blindly pinning away for months. As a working mom of a 10 month old baby girl I love all the great ideas. And the fact that someone else has taken the time to share their hard work with me. So from now on when I attempt some wonderful idea I have found on pinterest I am going back to the original blog (if I can) and giving them a Great Big Thanks! Cause I know if I put my projects out there I would want someone to let me know they liked it and I would want to share in their success.
Thank you for this. I have not thought about a lot of it before, and I’m glad to have learned!
I am so glad I found this post. You have completely made me rethink how I use my blog and Pinterest. While I always pin from the original source, it never occurred to me to directly visit that blog and leave a comment. This will be my practice from now on! Thank you.
Thank you for your kind reminders of how we should all act. I was especially touched by your story of your friend’s gracious forgiveness even before being asked and how you must have felt when confronted. I’m not a blogger but have visited many blogs and websites. I rarely comment but will do so in the future starting with you. Thanks again.
I loved reading this- thank you! People do need to say kind things to one another or just let bloggers know they are out there & checking & reading their blogs. I know whenever I get some comments it makes my day. Also, thanks for your words about Pinterest, I so agree & I vow to never again say, “I got the idea from Pinterest!”
I try to never just “re-pin” but click back to the original source & pin from there so that blog gets the actual credit.
This is a great post! I’ve been guilty is saying that the idea came from Pinterest but only because I just could not track the source. This is a bad past of Pinterest, people taking off the original source. I completely agree with giving the credit where its due and being nice! I have received “anonymous” comments that were hurtful and it bugged me for days. I sometimes wonder, what makes people be so mean.
What a wonderful read! I found it on … Pinterest! The table manners clip you posted was fabulous. A MUST watch for my husband, for sure. Also, I really appreciate your internet manners piece. I always try to give credit where credit is due. I have a Pinterest follower that just arbitrarily repins my pins constantly, and keeps the comments that I write. They can’t even take the time to change the tag to something original. I have also gotten into the habit of searching for the original source pin and repin from the source to be sure that the originator gets some sort of credit. I agree, that the “information/technology age” has removed civility, and we must fight to keep it alive. We have a please/thank you household, and it’s what I’m trying to instill in my 22-month-old. Though on most days, I ask myself “why”, but I know in the long term, he’ll have manners when it counts.
Thank you!
SUCH a good point — I try to be polite and nice on Pinterest and I get annoyed with the rude folks who make bitchy comments on pictures (including those that do not come from blogs), but I totally FORGET to go to the original page and comment and congratulate the person on such an awesome project. I am going to start doing this!!!
Fantastic post! I feel like people think etiquette just goes out the window when it comes to the internet. I say, give credit where credit is due, thank the person who took the time to write the post, and leave a comment! It’s as simple as that.
I also hate it when I find a cool pin and when I try to click through to go to the page for more info, it goes nowhere!
Thanks for the great post. Glad to know that other people realize that etiquette should be alive and well in the internet world. I am guilty of reading and not leaving comments as often as I should. I will try to do better.
YES! Pinning this…which is sorta ironic lol!
Wow, I’m so glad that you wrote this because I honestly had no idea. I thought that bloggers really only connected with a few of their “Beginning” followers & that the rest of us “Stragglers” were probably more of an annoyance. I feel like sometimes when I comment that I’m bugging the blogger by making them feel obligated to respond to my comment. I can totally understand that “I” would feel sad if people didn’t comment or give me credit, but I never thought these talented women/men were feeling that way. I truly assumed that they were too busy cranking out crafts & tips to care what little ol’ me thought! Kudos to you for sharing & I hope others read this etiquette tip that you posted on Pinterest, so that we can all appreciate & let them know we appreciate all these bloggers do! Sorry for the lengthy comment, but I wanted you to know that some of us didn’t have a clue.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this! I think manners are SO important and so many people lack them these days. I live on Pinterest and reading blogs and have to admit that I am a “I found this on Pinterest” person! I almost always follow the link to see what else the blogger has done, but rarely comment directly on the post. I will be sure to do this going forward. I do try to make a point to repin things directly from the blog though hoping that this will create more exposure for the blogger. Because of the bloggers out there, my home is cleaner (with less chemicals) and decorated better, more things are “homemade”, I have more variety in my dinner menus and I’m constantly learning new ways to be a better parent and do more things for my daughter and husband. Thank you to all of the bloggers out there who take the time out of their lives to share all they know and have learned.
Thank you so much for your post! It has been very helpful. A relative of mine is a blogger and graciously corrected me to where I should comment and give credit to. She mentioned I should check her blog out ( and I do). I learned early on & am so grateful! For me, my life would not be so enriched without all you awesome bloggers! Much appreciation to you all!!!!
I just want to let you know I loved this article and have tried to live by the golden rule in my life (though I fall short a many of times) . This article is right on..I have a blog (just started) and I have said “trying this I idea I found on PINTEREST” a couple of times…..I NEVER thought about actually citing the REAL source before……Maybe its harder work to find or maybe I dont want to have to ask for permission etc… I dont know, but I will definitely try harder next time because that is so true. Also I have been blog hopping for a year or so now and have NEVER left a comment on any blog and I have seen and liked some awesome stuff, Thank you for giving me the inspiration and a great reason WHY to comment…I never want all these wonderful blogs to go, they give me so much and thanks to you I will give them back something too and COMMENT…thanks so much
God Bless
K.Renee
Thank you for this post. You pointed out several things that had even crossed my mind, and I really appreciate it.
This is a wonderful post, I love it, thank you for taking the time to write it. Could we have permission to share it wit our readers as well, with full credit and link backs to you of course?
I completely agree, I saw this on pinterest and knew what it would be about immediately. I think people forget that behind everything stands a person. It’s like people slagging off celebs on twitter, they don’t think that the celeb may search their own name and find the harsh comments. The internet is a dangerous place, and pinterest is a wonderful yet tainted side of it.
Guilty as charged. When I pin something NOT from pinterest I try to always include the name of the blog where it is coming from in the description, because they deserve all the credit for the pin. And as for being nice, I handle online stuff this way: someone says something that irks me and my inner bitch rises to the occasion. I type up a huge response/rant/reply. I tweak it so it isn’t as bitchy and sounds intelligent. Then I close the window. I don’t post it. I get it out of my system. But I realize that my opinion and harsh words don’t always matter and don’t always make a difference in the grand scheme of things. But my kind actions and words do. Thanks for the eye-opening post.
Thank you for this! I have found so many blogs that I love and I would have never found if it weren’t for Pinterest!! I will now let them know my appreciation for their awesome work!!
Thank you for reminding us about manners! Learned a lot and I promise I won’t ever say “i got the idea from Pinterest”
Awesome post and I hope more people are able to read this. I love Pinterest as well, but I agree it takes away from the authors who deserve the credit ESPECIALLY when people take the words from the post and put it in the description. Then no one is clicking over to the blog. I also usually go to the website directly to pin even if it is on Pinterest because so many people get links wrong and it also gives me a chance to look around the blog. Thanks for sharing!!
Hi- Found a link to you on Pinterest! I love your site.
Lara! I came across this wonderful post from another blogger linking to it on Facebook. After seeing your about page, realized that I know you! (Worked with your mom in Logan and sent you a couple baby photos for your announcements!)
I’m so glad you posted this and have definitely seen too many snarky, unkind comments online. I’m glad your article is getting some attention!
Also, the photo on your bio page? SUPER cute!
Very, very good advice!!
I say “I FOUND it on Pinterest” all the time. Just like I found this post on Pinterest, on What Megan Makes’ board, and guess why I’m following What Megan Makes – because I clicked someone else’s pin to her site, had a look around, liked what I saw and wanted to be updated. Before I used Pinterest, I never read blogs – there are just too many of them. And saying I found it on Pinterest is much more specific than I found it on the internet. As someone that makes sure my pins and repins are properly linked, saying I found something on Pinterest is actually more helpful to the person I’m talking to and the blogger because I’ve given that person a way to find the information not just a random name they are likely to forget and don’t know where on the site to find something. When I say “I found it on Pinterest,” it’s shorthand for “I can’t take credit for this great idea that really works, if you would like more information go check my works cited.” As for when bloggers post they found something on Pinterest without giving credit, that drives me nuts! The difference between talking about ideas and blogging to the world about how you got your ideas are two very different situations.
I agree completely with what Anna T said – my thoughts exactly! Pinterest has opened a whole new world up to many people that never read blogs, which IMHO is just the point! It is much easier to point someone to someone’s blog using Pinterest that simply emailing the link to someone… Now, the part about kindness is so right on – amazingly true and a really needed reminder, but I have to wonder why so many bloggers need recognition and comments on their blogs. Is blogging in general a self-gratifying pursuit? I have a blog and could care less if anyone else looks at it or comments on it – it is a place for me to post stuff and keep a record – if anyone finds it and likes it, then great, but my feelings are never hurt if someone pins my stuff and does not leave a comment.
That was good…and a good reminder. I know “pinterest doesn’t make things”
but I am guilty of not always taking the time to acknowledge the original blogger when I pin something. Sometimes, but not as often as I should. I will change that because, you’re right…they deserve the nice comments and credit..
Unfortunately, yes, there are mean people…and for some reason they feel it’s their duty to tell people things when they really should keep it to themselves.
Have a great day
Kelly
Thank you so much for this awesome post….. will pass along to all my Pinteest and FB friends! You have a wonderful Site!!
Thanks…such good reminders, and thanks for all YOU DO…I follow your blog on my google reader and on pinterest and love your posts. I try to follow pins back to the source to check out and make sure it’s legit before I repin…but now I think I’ll try extra hard to make sure I give credit too where other non-diligent pinners can see. And while I’m there, I will try to comment more…good advise!
I’m glad to know that I’m not the only one that feels this way. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and words of wisdom, it was a wake-up call and a reminder that there are still some people out there that have feelings and aren’t robots. ^.^
I love this, thank you! “I found this on Pinterest”… UG! It’s my biggest pet peeve, I’m always correcting people!
This is a great post! I just got back from a bloggers Conference {Blog Fete} with some fabulous ladies, and this is one of the things we discussed. I’ve never really posted much on blogs, except when I was super impressed and felt like I really had to comment. But I’m not good with words, nor very expressive, so it’s tough to put my feelings into words or feel like I’m saying it the right way.
I’ve recently taken it upon myself to subscribe to blogs. I hated the idea of receiving more emails (and I’ve never really delved into rss feeds), but w several email accounts, why not! I’ve realized that I’m missing a lot of things on my FB news feed from fabulous bloggers such as yourself, so from now on, I’ll subscribe. AND LEAVE NICE COMMENTS TOO OF COURSE!
Cheers!
Elizabeth @ Party In Style
Thank you! I am guilty of viewing people’s sights from Pinterest and not thanking them! Love all you do and appreciate everything you accomplish (celebrate with you!). Because of you I have painted my kitchen, ordered the rug you have in your dining room, bought chalk paint and planning on reupholstering my kitchen chairs (my husband is not as thrilled as I am however). Bless you for all you do and to all the other bloggers out there – Thank You!
I agree wholeheartedly about the rude comments. That needs to stop.
However, I think you’re taking the Pinterest thing too far. I’m not going to remember the name of every. single. blog. I stumble upon from Pinterest links, so I’m going to continue saying, ‘I saw this great idea on Pinterest.’ Sorry. I understand that it stinks to not get ‘credit’ for the hard work that goes into coming up with new ideas and exciting content, but to expect me to remember the exact source for each and every idea I see on Pinterest? Really? If the idea is good enough, I click the link through to your blog. If it’s just something pretty that I want to look at, I don’t. Again, I’m sorry. But I think you’re expecting an unreasonable amount of sourcing from millions of Pinterest users. Most of the things I see one Pinterest aren’t amazingly new and clever ideas. They’re just new versions of something that’s already been done before, albeit in a way that’s clever enough to warrant me pinning it. I’m sorry. I don’t need to visit someone’s blog and leave a comment on their version of something that’s been done ad nauseam. And if, as you say, site owners can check comments on Pinterest, then why can’t you get your validation there?
I regularly say, ‘Oh, I saw this idea in a magazine,’ or, ‘I read in a book once,’ without mentioning the specific magazine or book. How is that different? I don’t know. I do understand where you’re coming from, but I think at this point in time bloggers need to adapt to Pinterest. That seems to be the way the tide is turning. There are a few bloggers I now follow because they put a lot of effort into having a strong Pinterest presence. I’m more interested in Pinterest than I am in following a blog day in and day out. I’m looking for concise ideas. I think many people on the internet are, and that is why Pinterest is doing so well.
The internet continues to evolve. People love Pinterest because it’s user-friendly and a great way to aggregate multiple sources in one place. It’s a better use of my time to surf through Pinterest casually than to hop around individual blogs. I know this probably isn’t fair to the bloggers, but I’m more concerned with using my time more effectively. The internet is a resource, and I am a user of that resources. I don’t feel like I owe bloggers anything beyond common courtesy and, if I’m the original pinner, citing back to the source. But I’m not going to go leave back-patting comments on each blog that I see a cute pin from. Sorry.
I disagree with your negative sentiments about Pinterest. I always check the link that the pin is from… not only to make sure it is legit… but to discover new blogs! I cannot even tell you how many wonderful blogs I’ve discovered (and have commented on) that I never would have discovered without Pinterest. I figure if I like this “pin” I surely will find something else on that person’s blog that I will also like. And not to mention… especially with a recipe or DIY… I need the instructions! Many times I’ve tried something ‘from Pinterest’ and gone back to the blog to thank the blogger. I just see Pinterest as a better way to bookmark. I think bloggers are so worried about their ideas being stolen or whatever that you forget that so many more people are discovering you that may never have discovered you otherwise.
I love this! I’ll admit, I’ve used the phrase, “I found this on Pinterest…” I didn’t even think about how much of a buzz kill that can be to a blogger. DUH. Thank you for this!
Brilliant post Lara! I totally agree!