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I.C.U.

This is just a side page for all of the reviews on I.C.U. I can't very well keep all of the reviews on the site, so once a month has been up, your review will get moved to here. It's organized by month, the newest from that month are on top. If you were spotted in that month, feel free to take the button that is there for you... however, there might not be a button there because Jayy is super busy and doesn't have time for and tends to forget about things like that =p

Peace. Love. End World Hunger.
Jayy.

You've Been Spotted

...In a different month

2009
December

2010
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, October, November, December

2011
June

December 2009



Button by Jes


[[12.22.09]]

Rae;
I like that you have the whole nautical theme going on. Hmm, wow, I am really impressed with your whole site. Though, I have to say, what is so wrong with Twilight xD oh yes, I'm one of those girls... but not so much as I used to be =p (ha. no, I wouldn't ask you to make me a pixel that says "i ♥ eddie" that's right. I call him Eddie now. HA. yeah. ok. enough about me.) ANYWAY. Your pixels really are fantastic. I love the calendar thing you have set up. Everything is really just top notch. Good job(:
Things I would change: WELL, besides the whole battling in the BD thing (ha. jk.) The only thing I've really noticed is on the homepage where you say "hello candy_spooky_theater"... when, obviously, I am not candy_spooky_theater... you are. But more importantly, getting the pixels is a little confusing. Knowing how to get the codes for images, it's not a problem for me... but I can't find your text area that has the base code (maybe I'm just blind)... but personally I would put it at the top of the pixel page. And I would also suggest getting someone who owns a mac (sorry, I don't either) to write out how to get a pixel on a mac... I know it has something to do with that flower button thing. haha. Oh, and for some reason you have a "&" at the top of your pixel page, it's weird... idky it's there.
Would I revisit? Yeah, I definitely will. I'll probably even request to be affies (with Teenybopper). Awesome pixels though, and awesome site. *Claps for Rae*
xoxoJayy


[[12.17.09]]

Lillia;
Your site is too cute. I love the colors, and found the MOST AWESOME THING... whilst I was trying to figure out how to view the content of your page, I stumbled across your navigation links at the top... and they're fantastic. I love them. Probably my favorite part of the whole site... idk, I just love how you incorporate them into the layout. Very nicely done.
Things I would change: First off, I would say your name somewhere on the site... I had to go searching to your userlookup to find it. Secondly, the layout is slightly messed up... and maybe that's just because I'm using FF(I know the old Forks' Phonebook layout was similar to yours... with the anchor links... and it didn't work right in FireFox). Anyway, when you click "home" it cuts off the top part of the banner so you lose access to your navigation links... if not for the "back" key, this would be veryyy annoying. Also, you have the home box centered, but the other two boxes off to the left... which is also slightly annoying. Finally, I would add some sort of credit section somewhere... add more of you into your site, rather then just: here's the choices you have, pick it up, and have a nice day.
Would I revisit? It's a nice site, but I have no need to request buttons most days.
Keep adding to your site and it will definitely get better(:
xoxoJayy


[[12.17.09]]

Emily;
Wow. Your site is so neatly organized. I really love it. I wish there were more content on it. The big banner at the top is beautiful, and the links below it match so nicely. So, good job to the ones who made those(: The color theme is also awesome and nicely done. I like how the boxes are laid out, and all the award and fanmail images are set to an 88x31 size. It gives your site this clean, professional feel.
Things I would change: The main thing that bugs me is the link back buttons and the fact that I had to manually find the image link and then make the rest of the link myself... essentially, I'm not able to copy the code inside of your almost nonexistent boxes, so this is probably the case with other people too.
Would I revisit?Hmm, if not for anything else, just to look at whatever new layout you might have up.
Awesome job with all of your sites(:
xoxoJayy


[[12.17.09]]

Nathalie;
Very interesting site, I actually remember it from my failed attempt at "The Challenge" xD - Just more proof that I shouldn't have numerous amounts of sites... but I still do. Anyway, when your page first loaded I really thought that I was going to be let down... the background didn't load, it was just this bright green block with white off to the right and a notebook slowly loading its way down the page... but then everything was finally loaded, and it looked a lot better than I had thought it would. Good content. THANK YOU for understanding that icon does not mean a 100x100 pixel cutout of a random picture... your icons are so much more interesting than that. I love all the resources that your site has to offer too(:
Things I would change: I am not really a fan of how you have your affies set up. It saves space and it looks fine, I just don't feel like it's fair to all of your affies who have your site clearly listed on their site and then you only have them listed as a random number. Also, just random grammar things that bug me. it would be "run" instead of "ran" -- "This site is ran by Nathalie and will be only ran by Nathalie." Also, I feel like you are a very honest person because you say "to be honest with you" quite a few times xD Mmm. And possibly the color scheme... I'm on the fence if I like it or not.
Would I revisit? Yes ma'am, I would(: I do quite like your resources, and I'll probably find them helpful at some point. You have a high quality site, and I hope it stays that way(:
xoxoJayy


[[12.12.09]]

Purple;
Hmm, second site of yours in 2 days. Guess you just must be that awesome(: Well, I have been to your site a great many times, but this is the first since I started ICU. Personally, I think it is such a great idea for a site. It is original and unlike any other... except for maybe those who try to copy it..... and fail miserably. Layout is set up nicely, so kudos to all of you who contributed to that. I also like the "meaning of Flare". Very clever. It makes me happy too, because it implicates so much of the Christmas spirit(:
Things I would change: There are a lot of comments and such on it, and with all of those topics at the top of each section, it get's a little confusing. Also, didn't you used to have a section where people could give shout outs? Like "Happy Birthday So and So"... idk, I think that that would be a cool section to still have. Other than that everything is set up so nicely and works really well.
Would I revisit? Yessir, I most definitely would. You're site is really helpful and I am considering sending in some things(:
Best of luck to you and your site!
xoxoJayy


[[01.02.10]]
(first review on 12.12.09 however I deleted that one)

Charlie;
My oh my... so much better than the first time I looked at it. That is one of my all-time favorite site layouts. It's so professional... or at least has that kind of feel... and it is organized so well. I love the buttons at the top and your online_ offline icon. I like that everything fits on the page nicely... no icky scrollbars... and that the content pops up where it's supposed to and doesn't flow over. It is all very neat and tidy, and if you were getting graded, you would get bonus points on it. Definitely one of the better site layouts using anchor links. The "Charlie" icon is also very cute(: And as I did before, I still love all of your little counters and pixels. Nicely done.
Things I would change: Not much. Your site is already awesome the way it is. The only thing I would suggest is that you take off the Userlookup option until you actually have userlookups to offer. And probably get more content... I know you value "Quality over Quantity" which is good... but though you have good things to offer, you don't have much. Also, I find it amusing that it says "I love my Grarrl" on a Kacheek page... teehee xD
Would I revisit? Yeah, definitely. I'll probably even ask you to be affies with one of my other sites... though I'm always so self-conscious when people say "top quality sites only"... I never think I'm good enough. but idk... this isn't about me =p haha. But right. So yeah... I'm just too enamored by your layout to not come back and take a look. xD
Awesome job. Keep up the good work and add more content!
xoxoJayy


[[12.11.09]]

Baily;
I was going through the list of affies that I had on Teenybopper™ just to make sure they hadn't deleted me or been closed, and I came to your site. I decided to look through it a bit, and I thought it was a pretty quaint site.
Things I would change: Umm, nothing. Actually. The colors all go nicely, there isn't any funky positioning or coding errors, and everything is laid out nicely.
Would I revisit? Nahh. I have no use for buttons or UFA/UFT banners. While this site might be helpful to someone, it isn't helpful to me.
Very cute site, good luck with it!
xoxoJayy


[[12.10.09]]

Kitty, Kaz, and Purple;
What drew me into your site was the title, "εxpressions" Ha, like the slogan too. The layout is very nice, the colors match well and it's just a really nice effect. You're a little lacking on the amount of content you have, especially since all of your requests are closed, but you all run other sites so that's understandable. I think it's cool, as well, that you all run the site... usually it's just one, and sometimes there are two, but rarely there's a neo site with more than that. So awesome(:
Things I would change: You know, not really... possibly raise everything up the page a bit so there isn't so much empty space, and there is a side scrollbar, so I would get rid of that... but other than that, I have no suggestions for your site.
Would I revisit? Honestly, probably not. You have a great site, so it's not like I think it's terrible or anything, I just won't revisit it.
Hope running it by 3 keeps working out for you(: Cute site, and fantastic name!
xoxoJayy


[[12.09.09]]

Stephanie;
Well, finally after seeing your site everywhere and hearing so much about it for the past few months, I have taken the time to have a good look around it. And I have to say, wow... horribleeeeee. hahaha. just kidding. Quite the contrary, your site is FANTASTIC. Oh jeez, wow. I am very sorry that I haven't taken the time to look around sooner. If you can't tell, I'm looking at part of your site, coming back and writing a sentence, and then going back and looking at more. Ok, I'm just going to throw out there, I Love: most especially, the links to other pages, where you have a list of what that page offers pop up when you hover over the link; How you have your site set up like offsites; everything under resources and button bases; and your explanations.
Things I would change: For those who have small screens like me, it can be a bit annoying to have to press F11 to see the layout in its entirety (The lists that pop up when you hover at the bottom get chopped off). Also, it might be nice if you include some sort of "back" button/link so that people (Especially the ones on F11, where in order to see your whole site, the address bar and other things at the top disappear) can navigate back to where they were easily... not necessary, since you still have the main links at the bottom. Also, under "donated" button bases, they're all linking to the same person... like you forgot to close a link... is that on purpose? If so, maybe (if linking them each is too tedious) you can just put a link above it to the person saying "so and so" made all of these... that way people won't be like. Wait... is this supposed to be like that? There's a scrollbar in the "link back buttons" on the site page... and it bugs me, but that sort of thing does, haha. And finally, it would be nice if you could not have everything spread out over so many pages... it takes long for my computer to load up everytime I want to check a different page. Tables and anchor links are an awesome way to keep it all on the same page, but I know that makes it confusing for you...
Would I revisit? You bet. This is such a high quality site, no wonder why you're so popular. Excellent content and cute layout(: Love it all!
xoxoJayy

Twilight graphics here!
[[12.09.09]]

Lucy;
Any twilight fan, such as myself, has no doubt heard of Forbidden Fruit, one of the best twilight sites out there. What you might not be aware of is that she has gone offsite... I'm not in the habit of looking at offsite sites, but I definitely make an exception for her. The site layout, as always, is fantastic. The content is the same as it's always been - amazing, only now she's added tutorials and even more graphics.
Things I would change: Can I think of anything? I guess I'm not really a fan of the link back buttons. And the TTS counter has disappeared.... and I dislike that Fonebook link back button that you're using... but those are just things about my other sites =p
Would I revisit? Yes. Of Course. Yours is my favorite twilight site... saying that even with having my own. It's such an awesome site and I'm glad that you've come back off hiatus and are running it... it's better than ever(:
xoxoJayy


[[12.07.09]]

Abby Abolish;
I like that you are different and out there and don't care what people think. I like the icons, but they are all so similar, and with me not being much into scene, it get's boring for me after a while. They're good icons, buttons, and avatars... just some are very simple and they all look very much alike.
Would I change anything? First off, all of your petpage pictures have expired so I would get rid of them or update. Oh, I forgot to mention. THANK YOU for having no side scrolling scroll bars and all of it looking nice and neat. That's so refreshing. OH WOW. I just saw the top of a scrollbar on the home page and I was like, what? Turns out it was to the graphics one, I would move that down a little lower so people can't see it. And you have very many link back buttons, perhaps too much... but what do I know?
Would I Revisit? Hmm. Probably not. Nothing against your site, I'm just not into the same things that you are.
And you might like the different mismatching, yet matching backgrounds, but I do not xD Don't change it though, not that you would, because it definitely shows off more about you and puts more of you into the site. But now I'm gonna stop talking because I sound incredibly cheesy. Best of luck to you and your site!
xoxoJayy


[[12.07.09]]

Tiffany;
I wasn't too sure about your site when I first got there because it was quaint, but I know of a lot of font sites that are less than, well, fantastic... but when I started looking at your fonts. Wow. Some of them are super adorable. Admitted, I'm not fond of all of them, but I wish I could create fonts as wells as you can. Alas, that is why I stick to coding web pages and not forum fonts.
Things I would change: I really don't have much. I would make the box a little bigger though so that you can see all of the scrollbar. You have a pretty long update/blog box, I would shorten that somehow. Also, I might put links at the top to all the different fonts since you have quite a lot of fonts to scroll through.
Would I revisit? I would definitely look at your site if I needed a font, but other than that, probably not... but then again, getting a font is mainly the only reason to visit your site, isn't it?
Keep adding awesome fonts(: Good Job
xoxoJayy


[[12.06.09]]

Cass;
Why yes, I absolutely DO love your site! Thanks for asking. Always a cute layout and I love your whole spew in the welcome message, it's so creative and cute. And of course I'm not the only one who loves your site, wowee on the views.
Would I change anything? I miss some of the old layouts you used to have up with the seemingly spaztic table boxes. I also dislike the side scrolling bar in the text areas, but that's just one of my own little quirks. The three columns confused me a bit because you had 2 layouts and then the pictures below it, but then I got that they ALL looked the same... yes, I can be that slow. And I'm torn between the dreamy layouts. I really love the little icons that you made and you give a description above it, maybe a link to an actual example of the layout?
Would I Revisit? Oh, most definitely. Cute CSS and layouts. Not to mention, you're a really nice person (ok, I didn't get that just from your site, I've neomailed with you before too). And plus I like visiting my affie's sites from time to time.
Fantastic site. Love it to pieces(:

xoxoJayy


[[12.06.09]]

Catie;
Cute site(: I'm glad this one was my first one. Love the colors and the way you have everything set up. You also seem like a pretty cool person just by reading updates and other such things around the site. I like the "back to top" buttons at the end of each section.
Things I would change: I would make the previews of the petpages and pet lookups bigger, and possibly make the links to the examples open in a new page? Other than that it all seems good to me.
Would I revisit? If I ever needed a start for a layout in a hurry, I might use one of yours. I like the petpage layouts, but I'm not a big fan of most of the userlookups... not that they aren't good, they just aren't for me. However, knowing what a strange person I am that I just like to look at pretty layouts on various sites, I would in fact revisit your site for that purpose.
Good Luck with your site and everything you do(:

xoxoJayy















January 2010



Button by Remy


[[01.31.10]]
+6

Tiffany;
Yay, a font site(: Don't see that many of those. I like your link back buttons and how you also have tutorials and blank font templates. It's a clever idea and it helps people, such as myself, who don't have time to sit through and figure out the best way to get everything in there without running over. It also is helpful for those who want to make their own fonts.
Things I would change: I would change your site layout. It's boring, I personally think. And everything just runs and runs down the page. Also, your fonts could use a little work. Not saying that they're bad, I for one could not do near as well, but they too, like the layout, are a little boring.
Would I revisit? Nahh. I'm not going to be changing my siggie any time soon, so I would have no need for it, but I would recommend it to anyone who is looking to make their own fonts.
xoxoJayy


[[01.31.10]]
+7

Amy and Rebecca;
You have a lot to offer at your site. And I'm aware that a lot of directories seem to think that it's really awesome. You have good resources, yes, that's true. You have a nice site layout and I love the story of how the site got its name(: However, I'm not a fan of your layouts. And I can't even begin to critique your graphics because the page is messed up.
Things I would change: For starters, I would fix your graphics page so that it was all back where it's supposed to be. I'm guessing that you weren't aware that it was like this and it is an accident. Well now someone has told you, and you should fix it. I'm also hating the scrollbars within a scrollbar. I guess I'm just a big fan of anchor points... you should consider it. Either that, or elongate your page... however I do like the compactness of the current layout. And add some more content. You need more original resources, because nearly any pixel of graphic site you go to has everything that you offer. Also, I'm a little confused as to why you have open signs in one color and you don't have closed signs in that color.... (like green open and no green closed). I would also suggest, that you upload the images like that to photobucket, so all the people who use your graphics will have to do is change close to open in the image code, instead of having to go back to your site to find a different image. (same goes for fast/medium/slow and online_ offline).
Would I revisit? Hmm. Probably not. Your site is not that original and nothing really stands out and grabs my attention. You still do have nice graphics, they're just very similar to a lot of other sites'.
xoxoJayy

Edible Art
[[01.30.10]]
+8

Rachelle;
You are by far one of the best layout makers that I have ever seen. You always seem to have the best site layouts. And usually when the layout is made for a large screen so it causes my tiny screen to scroll over (side scroll), I get very annoyed, but not so with your layout. You have found a way to make Kristin Stewart look attractive, I applaud you for that xD I also really like that you take requests... I wish I had the patience for that.
Things I would change: Compatibility. We are both fully aware that your site only works in IE... but I nearly despise that browser and I do all of my internet-ing in firefox... which is such a let down when I come to your site and it's completely messed up. Please, please, please find someone that can make it look right in both FF and IE... idk if you have the firefox browser or not. I'm also not sure why it is so off in FF and not in IE. Well, whatever the case. As soon as your site works in FF (im not sure how it looks in safari or any of the others) it will be 10 times better. Other than that, I can't really say much more. I love how you have your elite affies in that circle, btw.
Would I revisit? Most definitely. Along with Forbidden Fruit and iTwilight, your site is one of my favorites. Keep up the awesome work.
xoxoJayy


[[01.24.10]]
+7

Sandi;
I'm loving the background, but I really love those blues, and water(: I think your blue and checkmarks is a nifty idea... that's right, I said NIFTY /and/ contrary to popular belief, I used "is" properly as well. Anyway, I like your whole theme and it's nicely put together.
Things I would change: My first suggestion, is to make it a little more exciting. I love how you have those image links, but to me, I it would be better if you changed your boring old headers into new image headers that matched those links. And if you don't do that, at least get rid of the empty links that reside on some of the headers. Also, if you want to go for original, may I suggest finding someone other than Cass to make your banner. Yes, it's a fantastic banner, Cass's always are, but so many sites (review and sites in particular) have a banner made by her. Also, I understand that it's a lot to keep up, but I kinda wish that you would at least have an archive on some petpage somewhere so people can go and read the reviews for sites that no long have their reviews up on your page. Also, make the link buttons in the review boxes target="_blank" so that way the reader can switch back and forth from the site and your review... makes it easier. (haha. only slightly hypocritical of me, because I'm pretty sure I don't have target=_blank 's on all of my reviews....... or any at all =/ i'm not sure) And try not to give what your judging by asking so many questions. Using bullet points, making a list, or combining questions will get rid of all that question asking. (and being a silly nothern american, whenever I end a question, my intonation goes up... so you can imagine how annoying that is for me in my head at the end of every sentence that little voice in there goes up. but, I've never been a fan of a lot of questions in a row... just ask the people I've proofread for english =p)
Would I revisit? Hmm... maybe when I want to get one of my sites reviewed, but I've been off the whole "having-my-site-reviewed" scene for a while now. Anywho, good luck with your sites(:
xoxoJayy


[[01.21.10]]
+9

Yumi;
Aww, your pixels make me want to open up paint, gimp, iconart, or another one of those programs with which one can make a pixel and make a pixel. They're so adorable and I love that you have a theme. I also like that your site maintains a nice color theme. It's all pretty neat and orderly.
Things I would change: Ok, do you seriously have a link to another page just for your link back button codes? For a lazy person like me, that is so much wasted effort... I almost just copied the image code and added the link to it myself. Just put the link-back button codes straight on the page below the button they're for... you can always edit them to make them pretty and fit nicely. Also, I'm not a big fan of the height of your right column scrollboxes. Everything just seems so squished together... it would be more effective if you gave it more space. And though I'm not usually a fan of marquee affie boxes, I will let the non-pixel affies slide, because at least you allow non-pixel affies at all. However, in your pixel affie box, the 4th row down, you have a breakline there so the buttons aren't next to each other. Also, you had mentioned something about Kimmi dolls and how they mean something, but you never went into greater detail. You should explain a little bit about them under the header you have for the whole section dedicated to them. I do like how you explain what all of the pixels are and I really like all of your club stuff at the bottom. The train is awesomexD
Would I revisit? Yeah, I think I might. I am a fan of your pixels, though I'm not sure if I would ever use them, I do like them(: And they inspire me to make my own.
xoxoJayy


[[01.21.10]]
+8

Rebecca;
Beautiful site. I know why so many people rank you among the top 5 of button making sites. Your options to choose from have originality and quality, your animations and spaz-tastic, and all of the buttons in your profile look professional and great. I love the layout, the colors, the imaging. It really is beautiful.
Things I would change: Hmm... I would take out the scrollbox for the big picture. You have the links at the top, let people click them and get to where they're going... I feel like the scrollbox makes it more cluttered in a way, but just a personal opinion of style i guess. (get rid of scrollbar→ overflow-y:hidden). Also, I'd like to add out there to ANY BUTTON MAKER, I would really appreciate it if when you have your "neomail form button" you linked it with a "target=_blank" because it's so aggrivating trying to remember exactly what you want and then putting it all down in the neomail, especially if there are parts to the form that you didn't even consider. It's nice to have the 2 separate pages to go back and forth, checking, with. Also, give your textareas some height... it's a pain to try to copy the codes from them in firefox. And a quick spelling error: Under affies→ "Your site should have enough to content to be considered at site." (it should be "a" not "at")
Would I revisit?Yeah, mostly because I need a button for February and I'm hoping you'll make it(: But you definitely do run a top-notch button making site.
xoxoJayy


[[01.20.10]]
+10

Weapon;
Wow. I am in utter shock, really. I have seen your button everywhere and for some reason I've never felt it worth while to look at your site, but it has to be one of the best I've seen. It's so creative and the layout is wonderful. I love how you have rollovers and everything set up so professionally. I also personally love the office shoutbox xD
Things I would change: Honestly, not much. The whole link back part confused me a bit. I think it just took me a really long time to figure out that the number boxes below the button were where you got the link code... of course, I am slow... and it is a clever way of doing it - just a little confusing. Also, I love the office shoutbox, but it gets slightly annoying to sit there watching it all scroll through, I would like it better in a scrollbox, but based on your space and the importance of it, it probably suits you better in a marquee. I am also slightly confused about the whole "package round-about way of going" thing... do you send in your neomails the "position" it's at like in the world of neopia? If you did... that would be awesome, and it would be really cool to add a map of neopia to your site and have a star in places saying like "Courier is here at the moment" idk... might not fit your needs, but I think it would be cool. Hmmm... and maybe some more linkback buttons, for a variety?
Would I revisit? Yeah, I definitely would. I'll have to send a gift sometime. I really do love your site(:
xoxoJayy


[[01.18.10]]
+9

Purple;
Well, it appears that I've already reviewed one of your sites... and I guess I've never really had an "only one review per person... no matter how many sites" rule, but if I did... I think I would still make an exception for this site. Very clever idea and nicey put together. I love your navigation, and I love the whole idea of the search engine box... I just wish that you didn't have to copy and paste it into a neomail to send it... but I guess there isn't really a way to do that on neo, huh? Well, if there were (I think you would be doing it anyway) but if you weren't... you should be. ok. enough about that. -Quick aside: IE is driving me crazyyyy. just thought you'd like to know.-
Things I would change: Well, your navigation appears twice... and the top one isn't centered... bahaha. little things like that annoy me =p So either change what's in the drop down links, get rid of the top links, or get rid of the dropdown menu. Changing the drop down links? I think of Google when I see that, so maybe you could put commonly asked questions, and when a person clicks on it, it takes them to a page automatically preset with that question, the subject, and your username... so all they have to do is click send. That's just one idea, and if you want to do it and aren't sure how... just ask (it took me ages to figure out how to have the message body preset... but you probably already know how xD haha) Also, I think your answered questions section would look neater if you used anchor points instead of the scrollbar... you already have the links set up... all you would have to do is add "overflow-y:hidden" to the main scroll box, and then shorten the height of it so that you could only see one box at a time.
Would I revisit? Yeah, I would. I like reading your opinions to questions... it makes me think a lot of this site. I think you have a very clever site and a lot of nifty doo-dads that put you above the average, regular neopets site. Awesome job(:
xoxoJayy


[[01.15.10]]
+7

Ellie;
I'm not going to hassle you about your site name, because I like your reasoning. I don't necessarily agree with it, but I think it's cool for the reason behind it. Love the layout. It's very cute and well done.
Things I would change: I wish that the navigation was in a better, less random and spaztic order, but to change all of that, you would have to change your background header image, wouldn't you? That's too much effort for a lazy person like me xD Also, setting it up so that each navigation link is a different page is annoying... I have to wait for everything to load, and using anchor points is helpful, unless you have some reason as to why you can't do that (ie, too much content will make the page load slower than loading a different page each time). Other than that, I have nothing to say.
Would I revisit? Hmm... I might at some point, if I'm ever too lazy to make something myself (which happens frequently... though usually I don't request, I just wait 2 weeks until I feel like doing it =p) Your graphics are pretty good and I like that you are a request site(: Awesome job, keep it up!
xoxoJayy


[[01.15.10]]
+4

Kat;
What to say, what to say. Your site isn't bad, we'll start with that. Your icons are cute, I would use them(: However, I really have nothing else to say because you have nothing else to offer besides your wording (which at least it is easy to read and brings a smile to my face)... and btw, I do remember doodled heartz, and you also had the review site: Color my world Reviews? Yeah, I remember because I gave you a cumulus cloud award for it, and you reviewed my site... and we were pretty good affies way back then... but enough about that.
Things I would change: The Layout - it's good... and this is to critique the actual maker... but the transparency on your images is way to light... I have to squint to see anything clearly. The banner at the top doesn't have your name on it, so for a second, I thought that you had changed your site or something. And you didn't even create it, which is fine, it's just one less thing for me to comment on =p Your Icons - they would be a lot nicer if I could view them at full size rather then dragging them up to my address bar and waiting for that page to load... back and forth... back and forth... it's rather annoying. And I would add more content, because you hardly have any at all. Your site just seems very underdeveloped to me.
Would I revisit? In all honesty, probably not. I like your icons, but none of them called out to me =p And you don't have anything else to offer. However, I do admire your openess to "hate mail"... most of us can't deal with that. Anyway, good luck to you and all of your sites.
xoxoJayy


[[01.15.10]]
+7

Cori;
Fabulous site. Absolutely love the name... I can't tell you the number of times that I've said that phrase, and using it as a site name is really clever(: Your layouts (including the site one) are absolutely adorable, i love your vectors. Any idea how to save them as vectors while using gimp? I love that you explain the difference between vectors and rasters... I, myself, just learned this year at the beginning of computer art. I've been making vectors all year, but only using Illustrator... so it would be cool if I could do it with GIMP too.
Things I would change: I'm not a big fan of the pinks and blues that you have together... but it still looks fine. You should add a credit section. And keep working on that content (though I know it takes a lot of time to make content, and your site hasn't been open very long) Make your background textareas the same height as the layout ones. Explain how to get the code for pixels. Take the center off at the end of each section, because your headers get centered after the layout section. Make your header 2s aligned on the right... well, it doesn't really matter, it just mixes things up a little. Add a welcome/about section... and possibly a counter?
Would I revisit? Yeah, absolutely. I love your backgrounds, I'll probably use them at some point, and your vectors/layouts are so adorable. Very cute site, but still underdeveloped.
xoxoJayy


[[01.11.10]]
+6

Ruth;
Let me be the first to say that you have fantastic content... and if I'm not the first to say it, than GRR to the one who is. Your site layout is also really cute. The colors go nicely and the image is great, the positioning of the content is all on one page and fits together nicely.
Things I would change: There are a few problems I have with how you set this up. For starters, it took me the LONGEST time to find your affiliates. Having them the transparent off to the side randomly placed is not helping anything. Unless you have a really good reason for it's position, it should go back in the box with all of the other content. I wish the counter were a matching purple rather that random, obnoxiously bright blue... but that's fine. I think it would be awesome if the navigation links at the top faded when you hovered over them. You should also mention your name in your opening paragraph. I know, it's pretty obvious by your username, but still, it never hurts to have your name there. Also, work on your grammar a bit. You have fantastic things to offer but it's a pain to sit through and read everything on your site.
You must to follow the rules If you want to use my lookups but If you don't follow this rules you will be reported and you will be in the wall of the shame.
to
If you want to use my lookups, you MUST follow my rules. Anyone who breaks a rule will be reported and posted on the wall of shame
It sounds cleaner, looks nicer, and makes you seem more professional. The side scrolling in your textareas bug me... but that's a personal pet peeve. Also, I'm not a fan of the different previews for lookups and pet lookups. I like both ways you have it, I just personally feel like you should set it up so that they look the same... and not have the previews varying.
Would I revisit? I might. Like I said, awesome content. I love your icons and your layouts are pretty awesome.
You have a lot of talent, you just need to clean up your site a little bit. Awesome job though.
xoxoJayy


[[01.10.10]]
+8

Remy;
First off, love the title of your site... I'm a big fan of most all things classic disney. And it's a rather creative title too(: Layout is beautiful. And pretty professional. Premades are alright, nothing spectacular, but they aren't horrid either =p The headers you have for each section are pretty awesome and very unique. I really like how your site isn't a carbon copy of everyone elses... and sorry to hear about all the stealing going on there =/ I'm also really happy that you have button requests open, because do you know how hard it is to find a button request site with their requests open?
Things I would change: I would add more variety to the icons, they're very nice... but it's mostly just anime. Also, it would be cool if you didn't link to so many different pages... on an old dinosaur of a computer like mine, it takes forever to load each new page.
Would I revisit? Yeah. I like your site, it's cute and creative, and I need a button made(: haha
xoxoJayy


[[01.06.10]]

Chip and Lemon;
Creative. Intriguing. Original. I've heard of sites having color pallets, though hardly any on neo do. But having a whole site dedicated to that? It's so clever and simple. At first I felt like you should offer more, but now I don't think so. I really liked that you put color when you hover over bold, italics, and underline. You generally don't see that style anywhere... and it's fantastic with your layout because it adds color into the gray. I also like joggly's comment xD
Things I would change: hmm. I would like to see that instead of switching pages, you keep it all on the same page and use anchor points. Also, keep the same layout style throughout... so I would put all of your pallets into the main box where on the home page it gives all the info. Also, get some more link back buttons. Variety is always nice(:
Would I revisit? Yes, I actually do like the color schemes that you offer. So if I'm ever in need of one, I shall keep your site in mind.
xoxoJayy


[[01.02.10]]

Sienetta;
Cute site. I love how you organize it. Your link buttons for navigating around the site are way cute and it's all just really nicely done. Hmm... absolutely love your premades... well. most of them. And I love that you are able to search through them... although I think this would be more helpful if you had more content and less of a hindrance. For me, it's easier to just scroll through the layouts then to use the keyword boxes, but good thought though. All of your content is actually pretty good, and I can tell you put a lot of time into it. Very nice tutorial(:
Things I would change: I kind of really wish that you had your name posted somewhere obvious... for slow people like me xD Ha. Also, like I said the keyword boxes really are just there to take up space more than be helpful, but it's a clever idea and I still like it... so idk if I would suggest to get rid of it or not. It's also annoying to me that all of your content is splayed out over different pages... it takes forever for my dinosaur computer to load each page. It's annoying, but if it works better for you that way, I understand. Can't make everyone happy. I'm also wondering why your counter is so low considering you've had this site for over a year and it's definitely good enough to have more views than that. Just curious.
Would I revisit?Hmm... idk. Yeah, possibly. Just took look around atleast. You've got a lot of interesting thing to offer, I think... and everything is very well done.
xoxoJayy


[[01.02.10]]

Kaitlynn;
Well hello there. Let's see... your site. Hmm... when I opened to it, I thought "wow... this layout is kinda bugging me". It's so big and scrolly-barry and all over my screen and it's not like it's even that fantastic. It's not like an Edible Art layout... it's just. idk. Too big for what it's worth. Not to be mean or anything. I'm not too fond of the colors either. However, I really do love your icons... they are rather cute. And your blends aren't too bad either.
Things I would change: Well... mostly, just the site layout. Hmm... I make it sound like I think it's bad, which I don't... I just don't like that color gray for the background and I think you went a little brush crazy in the blend... and I think the colors should match better with the blend... well, I mean, they go nicely... they just don't match. I also think you should get more creative with the way you display your site name. Also, I wasn't sure where to find your affies until I click "exits"... who would have known that's what that meant! Ha. I would make that more clear, though it is creative and cute(:
Would I revisit? Hmm... I think I would to see what you do with the site (and because you are my affie xD lol) You really have a lot of potential, and I'd like to see you build up to that. It's not that I think your site is bad, I just think that it could be better than what it is. So keep working with it and I'm sure it will reach efforts of supreme awesomeness(:
xoxoJayy
























































































































































February 2010



Button by Laur




[[02.13.10]]

Courtney;
I was pretty impressed upon first opening up the link for your site. I really liked the layout. Then I looked a little closer. From what I can see your petpage layouts look good... hmm, I guess I should just skip to the next section right now, haha.
Things I would change: I can honestly not tell you if your userlookups are good or not. As a user of your site, I don't want to have to open up a separate tab for my userlookup just to see if I even LIKE your layout... if you must have the preview of the layout in that 100x100 box, have a link to a live preview of the layout on someone's userlookup... if they're all the same style, you only need one live preview... if they're all different, you should link each one. I like your icon bases, but your icons themselves are a little bland. Try using different fonts and textures. Play around with color and saturation levels. And be careful not to sound too redundant - you don't need to use "of course" one sentence after the other (in the icon section) The overall layout is nice. However the scrollbar in the link section is driving me crazy... make the links closer together or get rid of some of them. The scrollbar really takes away from the layout. Also, the links at the top are hardly noticeable. I thought the big white area with your text were the links. In all honestly, you can probably just get rid of all the neo links in that link box and put in your site links there... I mean, how many times have you been perusing sites and then go, "oh, I want to create an account" or "enough with this, I'm going to go talk on the boards". I think you can have a link to the neo homepage and that would be sufficient enough. You also might want to say "Guild Lookups" since you are not offering guilds for people =p Your positioning of your main box is a little off... but maybe that's because I'm using firefox and you have it made in IE (do you?). idk. Finally, you have wayyyyy to much crammed into your sitely box. Just make a sitely separate in the main box. Instead of having credits at the top, put sitely and then put all of your sitely things in the credits box and have the credits at the end of it. Leave your updates in the sitely box, and maybe the linkback? It's up to you... but there is definitely not enough space to make that a successful sitely section.
Would I revisit? Hmm. That is a good question. Yes, because I like to revisit my affies' sites, just to check in xD OOOOO. I just got more things to say! *ahem* I love your explainations of things... it reminds me of me(: haha. However. WOAH! Your scrollbars aren't scrolling the whole way! Look at your rules page, I can't see the bottom of the box. NEEDS TO BE FIXED! woo-oo, woo-oo (that's the siren going off) I'm not sure what the deal with your coding is there, but something isn't right. OK, now where was I? Right right. If you make the changes I suggested (which I know, there's a lot xP sorry I'm so rambly and long winded, haha) I'd love to see how your site turns out. Anyway, best of luck to you and your site(:
xoxoJayy


[[02.09.10]]

Brittney;
Interesting site. I like that it's a font site. There aren't many of those around. Wait. WHAT?! PAPER THIN IS GONE?!?! Oh the way you find things out... haha. OK, anyway. As I was saying, I like the originality that you put into your font site... let's face it, it's hard to come up with an original site these days, and once you do, people generally start making carbon copies of it. I like that you took an unoriginal site idea and made it different. Even if it's only by the way you title things and organize things, idk... I just like it.
Things I would change: I like the whole faerie series, but you are leaving out some of the faeries that I feel should be added in. And thanks for that link. I am a water faerie(: See, there is another clever idea. I guess, mostly, I would just ask you to spice up your fonts a little. They're fine and all, just a little plain and boring. I'm not a fan of the space between the header and the content box either. Your requested fonts look a lot more interesting then your premades =/ I really like the yes/no thing to the layouts... but what is up with all of the boxes between them? It's weird. And get better buttons for your advertisers. Not to be rude, I just wouldn't want to use either of those buttons if I were to advertise your site.
Would I revisit? I'm never in need of a font, so no... but if I were, then yes. haha. Best of luck to you and your site.
xoxoJayy


[[02.03.10]]
+6

I Don't Know;
Kay, dear, it would be really helpful if you put your name somewhere, preferably on your page. Maybe it's JJ? But I can't know for sure... maybe someone else named JJ made your layout, who knows? You don't have much content, but what I'm seeing, I'm liking.
Things I would change:
I know your layout is valentines day, but keep in mind that /just because it's pink DOESN'T mean that it matches/ You have some really drastically different pinks in your layout that don't match with each other at all... it actually kind of clashes. I think mostly it's just that rose-colored pink you use in the navigation... pick a bluer pink, it will look much nicer. And your layouts are cute... just a little underdeveloped. I'm not saying go crazy and add 20 billion brushes overtop of it so it looks horrible and muddy, but it wouldn't hurt to add a little something to it. Please stop the side scrollbars in the textareas from happening... just one of my pet peeves. And what's with the random blue in your link hovers? I actually kinda like it, but with it only on that one little spot on the page, it seems misplaced and doesn't fit in with the rest of the layout. Also, add more content, but I understand how being busy could stop you from doing that.
Would I revisit? Hmm... maybe, I'm not sure. I'm not in a decisive mood (along with being in a bad mood) So don't take it personally or anything. But yeah, nice site... good start, keep working on it.
xoxoJayy


[[02.03.10]]
+5

Random;
I like your layout, though I note that you really only just edited it. However, you made a good choice with it. Sorry to say I'm not in a particularly good mood and nothing really pops out at me as "THAT WAS SO FANTASTIC" so I'm just going to skip straight to the next section.
Things I would change: Move the layout up higher. You have all that empty space up at the top, and for what purpose? You could probably fit that entire box onto a page without causing it to scroll. Get some more attractive link back buttons. You are a button site, and I can't say that I really love any of them. Mostly I don't like the font and the animation in the first one hurts my head =p May I suggest adding Silkscreen and Bangalor to your font choices... I really only like number 3 for a button... but Redensek is my favorite pixel/button font out there. Your buttons are alright, but they're not /fantastic/ and if you want to complete your goal, you're going to need to kick it up a notch. I can't really help you because I'm not all that fantastic at making buttons myself, I just know what I like and what I think is high quality, and yours just isn't there yet.
Would I revisit? If you improve a little, yeah. I'm always looking for button sites to make my current "I Was Spotted In..." buttons.
xoxoJayy






















































































































































March 2010



Button by Pip




[[03.18.10]]

Melissa;
Well, don't you feel special, being the first site that I take a look at since over a month ago? Well, what can I say about your site? Bravo for having so much content after only being open 9 days (or maybe that's when you started your counter? idk) I also like that you update regularly (unlike me, as you can see I have fallen into =/) I like how you have your content and navigation set up as well.
Things I would change: I'm not a huge fan of the header. It is alright, I suppose. I think that I have started to like blends that blend together better. You have so many random images that don't match other than the person who is in them (good choice, btw... Laur would be proud... and if you're scratching your head trying to figure that out, she's my best friend who helps run some of my sites). It's overwhelming and too much... I see that some of the images do in fact match, but it all just seems like too much to even notice it really. And by looking at your blends that you have to offer, I can tell that you are a good blend maker... which brings me to my next point. I don't like that I have to drag and drop the images to the address bar to see them in their entirety. Would it be so bad to make those images bigger so I can actually tell what it looks like?
Would I revisit? Hmmm... probably not. Your site is nice, but it's not super fantastic or anything. Keep working, I am really impressed that you are doing so well for having such a new site.
xoxoJayy






















































































































































April 2010



Button by Jayy



[[04.29.10]]
CSS Premades

Dear Emma,
What I Like: Your site. Plain and simple. I like your site. I like the way you have everything set up, laid out, and colored. I also really like all of the pet pages except for one and maybe a few of the others, but still, they're all pretty good. I like that you also have the color schemes set up and that you say the date that you came out with the layout. I don't think anyone has ever really dated their work, and I don't think the viewers of your site much care, but it's cool to look back and see what you did and when and how far you've come. I don't know, I like it(:
What I would Change: The color in your textarea is too light and unreadable. Maybe make it a slightly bit darker gray? I know it doesn't matter if you can read it or not, but I'd like to be able to see that it's there. Your introduction gets cut off at the bottom, so maybe make it 2 or so pixels taller? And I know everything is compatible in firefox, you say that in the introduction, but I'm not sure how many people read that. If you're going to give symbols of which ones work in the IE browser, you might as well just give symbols for which browsers the layout is compatible in, even if they ARE all compatible in firefox. Then you can also add things like Safari and Chrome. Not a fan of the userlookups or pet lookups, I guess I just have yet to see any CSS for either of those that I really like, so I can't make any suggestions on how to make it more appealing to myself, though I'm sure many people do like the CSS look on userlookups, so as long as it's good to them, that's all that matters. Oh, did I mention I like that you have the key there? Yeppers, well, I do.
Anywho, fantastic site. I hope your as enthusiastic about it in these next two months as you have been the past two since it opened. Wouldn't want to see this site die.
xoxo,
Jayy



[[04.14.10]]
Link Directory

Dear Anna,
What I Like: You are the first directory site I've ever spotted, but I think that's because I have so much to say about your site. Where to start. Well, I like all of the creativity you have in it. It's like, 20 billion different things rolled into one site... like, Walmart of the Site world. I like the banner at the top as well. Oh, and congratulations on being the biggest directory in neopia... or at least one of them if you aren't... Who knew there were so many sites =p
What I would Change: I'm not a fan of your background color. Also not a fan of having to scroll back and forth from left to right on my tiny monitor, but it's not like you really should make your layout smaller because you have so much stuff on it already. However, it is all mushed on my screen, which drives me crazy. I think that's the biggest part of what I don't like about your site, you have all of this content mushed together on one page, and it's hard to sort through and find things. I think you would benefit from being more organized, and I know, you're thinking "how could I possibly be more organized?" I suggest either using another petpage to put the non-directory content on, or using anchors to make it appear like it's on another page. Putting all of your content in that one scrollbox makes it harder to navigate and more overwhelming. You have so many options that even the navigation bar gets to be a bit much when looking at. Another thing is I like the creativity of your titles, but I wonder if it might be too much... perhaps it's just the idioticness of me, but it took me forever figuring out what things were. I like it's creativity, but it doesn't do you much good if people don't know what "backordered" or "book group" mean without reading down through it. I just think with a site as large as yours that titles that don't explain enough of what it is would be a hindrance. Like, the "to be stocked"... that means, do you want to be listed? Ha, it took me forever to figure that out... I was searching your page for 5 minutes until I saw that there and thought. I BET THAT'S WHAT SHE MEANS! Wow, this is really long, I'm sorry. The final thing is that the 2 side bars don't scroll? So I can't see the bottom, and therefor have no idea what the link back button at the top looks like. I guess I'll find out shortly xD
Really great site, just really overwhelming. Hope you keep growing though(:
xoxo,
Jayy



[[04.10.10]]
Premade and Custom Request Site

Dear Chloe,
What I Like: You have a very nice site, and it's good too see a high quality request site. I know that a lot of site owners get requests when they don't want to make them, so it makes me really happy that you take custom requests, you're good at it, and you like doing it. I like the simplicity of your layout, it's not colorful, there's not a lot going on, and it seems professional. Everything is organized nicely. The premades you have are really good. It shows that you can and will make a very nice custom layout.
What I would Change: Mostly just tiny things, like the border around your link back buttons. It's only on the "Css for you" and then your own buttons, of course, but image link borders around buttons have always bugged me. Another thing is all of that space between the bottom of your content area and then the neopets links. Here's a suggestion: you could put it in a separate gray box like the one the holds your content and move it closer to the box. The sidescrolling bar in your update box bothers me as well... but that's just my crazy brain(: Center your scrollboxes for the petpage images, or make them take up the whole width, like the textarea for it would be beside it? It just seems unbalanced and squished together as is. And again, the sidescrolling in the textarea. I'm not sure why you have 3 envelopes on your request page... I'm pretty sure you only need one link to neomail to you, but I suppose you have it there for design purposes.
Your rant made me chuckle because I know all too well what you are going through(: Anyway, love your site, keep up the good work with it.
xoxo,
Jayy



[[04.08.10]]
Premade Site

Dear Adrienne,
What I Like: Your site. haha. No really, I actually love your site. I have for a while now, I just haven't done much spotting lately, and it surprised me to see I haven't spotted your site yet... Well, I'm going to have to go with you're very talented. You certainly have a lot of content. And for someone who isn't big on plain css layouts, I am finding that I really like yours. Wow. You do have a lot. The first time I looked at your site, I took note to the backgrounds because I thought I had been so ingenious when I had come up with it, great minds think alike i suppose(: Yours look better anyway =p
What I would Change: I'm not sure how i feel about your banner. I think I like it... hmm, I'm not sure. I kinda almost wish that the navigation would stay in place, but I do like the convenience of it being wherever I'm viewing. I don't like the font of links, but that's pretty much it. Oh, and your massive scrollbars of content, I would change that somehow to make it less scrolling. I suppose you DO have the links at the top xD But idk.
Anyway, love your site, I'm adding it to the hall of fame, keep up the awesome work(:
xoxo,
Jayy



[[04.08.10]]
Layout and Resource Site

Dear Milou, Angel, and Emily,
What I Like: I love how neat your site looks. I like the colors and of course, the name. The navigation is very cool, easy to find, and it adds to the page. The contact bar that moves with the page, well, that's awesome. I like your color pallets as well, and you sure do have a lot of them.
What I would Change: I understand that you make your layouts simple, and there's nothing wrong with that. The only thing I would suggest is if you're going to be simple with it, try more creative ways then layouts that look similar to 20 other sites out there. I mean, your layouts are fine, honestly, that's just my opinion. Also, I'm a little confused as to why the FAQ is on the resource page when a)it has nothing to do with anything on the resource page and b) there is nothing indicating that it's there... almost like it's hidden, like SURPRISE! YOU FOUND THE FAQ! here's your prize. And your scrolling contact button doesn't link to neomail you =/ I don't know if you're aware of that or not, just something I noticed... and it's only on the lookup and petpage pages. Your textareas for the link back buttons are small, very small, and your textareas scroll sideways... you don't have to change it, but that's something I would, cuz I'm just weird and get bugged like that xp
Anywho, really nice site, especially for only being a month old. Keep up the awesome work(:
xoxo,
Jayy



[[04.07.10]]
Pixel/Resource Site

Dear Tiff,
What I Like: You have a very nice site. I really like the layout. It makes me happy that it actually works and the anchor links aren't messed up(: I also really like the colors and that you used your scribbles in the layout for the site. Oh yeah... I love the name. When I first read it, I thought "oh cool, someone putting 'el' instead of 'the' to make it spanish... like I sometimes find myself doing xD" and then I realized how ingenious it was because you mixed up the word pixel. Ok, that was my little happy moment... I don't know if you tried that, but I like it anyway. Your pixels are really cute and I love the beauty and the beast one... that's just fantastic. I also like your ragdoll idea. (even if they do creep me out a little =p haha) It's original and cute.
What I would Change: I honestly really can't think of anything that I would do differently with this site except for the size of the textareas. I would probably also put requesting to be an affiliate in the affiliate section, but it makes sense where it is. Sheesh. I got nothing. You have a lot of high quality content and your site is organized really nicely... there isn't much I can suggest to approve on. Just keep up with what you are doing, I suppose(:
xoxo,
Jayy























































































































































May 2010



Button by Blossom



[[05.31.10]]
Premade CSS Layouts

Dear Paige,
What I Like: Your site is cute(: I really LOVE how you have the images set above your codes. I like how the background fades from dark to light. I like your use of symbols and I think it's really good that you explain how to get the codes(:
What I would Change: Wow, nothing really. The scrolling affies thing bothers me. Also you should have an 88x31 button (well, that's just my opinion). You might want to add navigation... maybe that cool kind that people have now-a-days that scrolls along with you as you scroll down the page. The biggest thing for me is the petpage images... Do you have any layouts made for this already? If you don't, I don't think that you should have the images up for it. If you do... why are they all the same? Oh... some of your textareas are squashed closed so I can't get any of the codes from it.
So, I pretty much really like your site, it's cute and put together nicely. Keep up the good work.
xoxo,
Jayy



[[05.31.10]]
Lookup Premades

Dear Ai,
What I Like: Your layout is absolutely adorable. I love the color yellow and it all fits together nicely. The name also makes me smile(: Your premades are epic. Just saying, if I were into manga/anime, I would definitely be using one, just saying.
What I would Change: Just a few things. First, an 88x31 button would be nice(: Second, all of your layouts and everything is crammed into that small box at the bottom of the screen which makes it tedious to scroll through everything. I suggest using anchor links to make the boxes smaller... like, put each section in it's own div box, make the overall box overflow-y:hidden, and then use anchor links in the navigation to jump from section to section... it will be more coding for you, but easier for your viewers to search through everything. Not a big fan of the scrolling affiliates either. I never like it when people do that or make little ♥ or something as the links to their sites... but that's a different story =p I don't think "Trophies I've Earned" needs to be a scrolling marquee.

You have a really good site, just a little overwhelming with everything trapped in that little scrollbox. You know, I found your site on Soroptimist, so it's weird because as I was reading it, I read that you were inspired by your sister, CC. That's pretty cool... and slightly ironic, because she's the one that inspired me to keep going with my sites... actually, I learned most all I know of CSS from her and our long gone site, Neospace. But anyway, I know you don't really care... I just thought that was interesting. Right, so, good luck with your site(:
xoxo,
Jayy



[[05.26.10]]
Premades

Dear Allie,
What I Like: Your site layout is very nicely set up. I like all of the anchor linkage that you have going on and the colors and the image. The links to the different parts of your site... like the actual, physical, winged links are pretty cool. I also really like that you have the coding fix right on the front page, RIGHT THERE for everyone to find easily and use. Good thinking(: I really like the way you have your userlookups organized, as well.
What I would Change: I'm not a fan of the font you use. For some reason, Times New Roman just seems messy and gross to me... but that's a personal preference, if you like the font then that's all that matters =p Also, perhaps make your navigation links a bit bigger? When I looked at your page, I first saw the image, then went down to read the text and it took me a while to find the links. I kept skipping over them when I was looking for the navigation. The other thing is that you have your userlookups organized so nicely, and then you just have your petpages there. I suppose that I would just make it more uniformed and set up the petpages the same way as the userlookups... even if there are considerably fewer pet page layouts.
Anyway, quite lovely site(: Keep up the awesome work!
xoxo,
Jayy



[[05.05.10]]
Resource Site

Dear Limei,
What I Like: When I first opened your page, I thought, meh... layout is alright. The more I looked at it, the more I started to really like it. Did you draw the image? Because if you did, that makes your layout beastly. I love the backgrounds, even if you didn't make them all... that's slightly a let down, but I still like them. I take back the whole thing I said about the drawing, but um, korked... your picture is very good(: I like the faerie pixels and the slorg pixel, but I have always loved slorgies(:
What I would Change: To be honest with you, I am not so much a fan of your premades. Some of them are quite alright, but I suppose I just don't like the big chunkyness that seems to be a style that you stick with. Like the size of the headers and navigation links are too big for my taste. I'm also not too fond of a lot of your color choices. And some of your layouts, like the first few pet pages seem boring to me... but that might just be because I generally find CSS layouts boring. Actually, I really like "The Wind Waker" layout, probably my favorite out of all of them... I think if you make more such as that I would like them a lot better... though that's just my opinion, I don't speak for the rest of the world. I think on your site layout that I would make the 2nd header smaller, since currently it is the same height as the header one. Aww, I love your suggestion box(: sorry... just looked at that. haha. The bottom of the bottom box should be against the bottom of the screen, but other than those few things, I think you have a really nicely laid out site.
xoxo,
Jayy



[[05.03.10]]
Banner Request Site

Dear Jamie and Babo,
What I Like: I've never really been to a site that's all about the banner making before, so I don't know if this is common, but I like how you have everything set up. It isn't just the "request a button", but you have different boxes for specifying exactly what one wants their banner to be... much like a button request site, only for banners. I like that. I like how you have each option in a different box. Teehee, I like the "sister brother. Also your link back buttons.
What I would Change: I like your requests open button, however I think it would be awesome if that were the button you click to send the form... it just looks like one of those kind of buttons. If you want to have a requests open button, I would put it above the form, not below it. Plus, it get's all confusing with the linking and sending... but yeah, I think it would look better if you made a cool button for people to click to send the form. Oh, did I mention that I love the ugly doll theme? Because I really do... I have one name Mr. Kasoogi(: bahaha. Anyway, you could use a bit of work on your colors. Make them match the header more, because the pink and green you have right now really don't go together well, and then they're completely different from the green in the background. You've got all the right colors, let's just bring them all into the same hue so they look better(: Are you aware that your avatar in the updates section says "jaime"? Might want to fix that... please get rid of all the image link borders around various buttons on the site. And your pick up box doesn't scroll? The only other thing, and probably the most important is that your banners are a tad bit boring. It seems like you took an image and then added text over it and called it done. Actually, I really like the sonic boom one. idk, I suppose, after looking at some of them, that they look better at a larger scale =p but still, I'm not sure if I would call image+font with border a super fantastic banner.
Anywho, I'm glad I came across your site. It's new, I see, but it seems to be off to a good start. Hope you can keep it going, because I know of lazy/busy/unlearned people who need banners to be made for them(:
xoxo,
Jayy
























































































































































June 2010



Button by Jayy



[[06.29.10]]
Premades and Resources

Dear Nikki,
What I Like: For some reason, I feel like I've "spotted" your site before, but I couldn't find it in any of my old spottings, or a mention of it anywhere on your site, so I'm just gonna assume that I've LOOKED at it before, but never "spotted" it. Because I definitely remember it. It is quite a fantastically done site. Maybe takes a little bit to load, but totally worth it. You have good content for everyone to use. And i absolutely love how you have the pagination and go backs at the bottom of your layouts. It is cute and it's very easy navigation.
What I would Change: Nothing, for the most part. The three buttons to the left of your content could stand out a little more... maybe put a white border around them... like, the image itself. Or even just moving it up a little so it's just in the yellow area? Other than that, I really have nothing to say... minus the page loading issue, but I have no suggestions on how to make the any faster =/
Hmm... maybe I requested to be affies and you turned me down? Not on this site, obviously, but on RaveShock? I honestly don't remember. But anyway, quite lovely site. Adding you to the hall of fame, and you also happen to be the 50th spottee... WOOO! haha, ok, done now(:
xoxo,
Jayy



[[06.14.10]]
Premade Fonts

Dear Fer,
What I Like: I like that you have other things on your site then just fonts for people to use (yes, I suppose that includes requesting fonts) but I was mainly talking about the spot with your favorite sites, or how you have your "About Me" section (which, btw. LOVE Hey Monday! I almost put 6 Months as the song on here, since, you know, this site is 6 months old and I was being clever xD baha. loveee it... check the lookup) And woo yes, first font total win! Especially because it has helped me figure out that that word is solo xD Haha, ok, ok, enough of Hey Monday! Anyway, anywayy. I like your fonts, I feel like they almost get better as you scroll farther and farther down.
What I would Change: My biggest pet peeve with this page is that I have to hit F11 to view it in entirety, or I would have to zoom out, but that would make the text small and hard to read. So, my suggestion? Get rid of the overflow-y:hidden on your page... unless it's there for some superrrr important reason. And I'm not sure how I feel about all these flashing, animated graphics speckling your page. That's right, I just used speckling as a verb. That is about it. ooo, and I love your site counter(:
Cute site; I really like the name(: Good luck with it!
xoxo,
Jayy



[[06.14.10]]
Pixel Premades

Dear Sticky,
What I Like: Your pixels are absolutely adorable! It always amazes me to see such high quality pixels... like, how much time and effort must go into making each and every one of them. They might be small, but there's so much detail. OK, anyway, I like how you have your site set up and organized, and I like the whole amusement park theme... I like that you incorporate it, but it doesn't take over your entire site so that -"Take A Ride on the Ferris Wheel" ... what is she talking about?- kind of thing doesn't happen.
What I would Change: I would probably make your navigation a little easier to read, the words just don't stand out much, like you can tell they're words and navigation, it's just hard to read where they're taking you. Another thing is adding "Back" buttons to go back to the list you were just on. Like, if I clicked "Inspections", you should have some sort of back buttons so I can go back and view your sitely list again... I know, I know, I could just click sitely to get me back there (trust me, I used to do that all the time), but I suppose just the mindset of someone viewing is that clicking back is easier and less confusing. Oh, and definitely add some way to contact you!
Congrats on almost 3 years!(: Good luck to you and your site.
xoxo,
Jayy



[[06.12.10]]
CSS Premades

Dear Elle,
What I Like: You have adorable CSS layouts. I always envy those who can make such creative layouts with getting all into the image aspect of layouts. And I also like that your site was founded on my birthday, but that's neither here nor there(: baha. The banner for your site is pretty cool, and I like how you have things organized.
What I would Change: You have a really nice layout, it's just a lot to scroll through, even if you do click the navigation links at the top. And the more content you add, which I assume you'd do, the more there is to scroll through. Perhaps you can use smaller div boxes and anchor links to have people be able to click through the different number of columns. I mean, it's fine the way it is, it's just something I would change. I would also probably call more attention to your envelope in the bottom corner; I didn't notice it there at first. Maybe you could make a bigger button that says mail me? Or add a "to the top" link there, I'm not really sure.
Anyway, really love your site. I need to keep it in mind for if I ever need a petpage layout in a hurry.
xoxo,
Jayy
























































































































































July 2010



Button by Jenna



[[07.23.10]]
Premades

Dear Sosu,
What I Like: Wow. Just wow. Your site is completely amazing. When I first opened it, I was a little annoyed with the length it took to fully load, but when it did, I thought to myself, 'This is a pretty cute layout'. It's a creative idea too, basing layouts off of avatars. I really love how when you click on the avatar, it shows you the image in that little box to the right. That has to be my favorite part ever. Not to mention, there are no scrollbars, everything fits nicely and it all looks so neat. Love your headers and subheaders(: I guess I'm just really taken with your whole site layout. I actually found you because Grace's userlookup is one of yours, and I thought it was good, so I wanted to check out where it came from.
What I would Change: I didn't notice it with the affiliates, because you have the same amount of rows, but I think it would look nicer if you had the "back||next" links set in the same spot... like, make a table with a set height and put all of your affies, or linkbacks, or whatever have you, and then put the "back||next" link on... which, for the record, I think is a fantastic idea... really minimizes scrollboxes. Also, I feel like if you're going to label it "sitely", you really should have more than just link backs, or otherwise you could call it just linkbacks... Having credits somewhere would be a good idea too. Other than that, there's really nothing I would change.
I really do love your site, and I'm going to add it to the HOF.
xoxo,
Jayy



[[07.19.10]]
Graphics and Resources

Dear Tina,
What I Like: You certainly do have A LOT of content, and it's pretty good too. I actually love all of your pixel resources. Your altador buttons are adorable. I love the 2nd fake avatar in, the one of the girl in aviators... makes me think of my friend, Mel. Also, the *derp* one cracks me up... mostly because of some of my other friends, Chrystie and Evan. Anyway, besides the fact that your graphics make me go all sentimental xD, they are wonderful. And I love the blue in your layout.
What I would Change: I think you have too much crammed on your home page. You have three columns in it goes down far, and it just seems almost too much for me to take in at once, too overwhelming. It's actually like that in a few other places - all your many scrollboxes within with scrollboxes. It definitely makes it more organized, but I wonder if it makes it too overwhelming. It could just possibly be that I feel that some of your scrollboxes are too small; like the ones for the button bases. They don't NEED to be large, because the graphic isn't large; but it would be preferable... at least larger than it is currently. The other thing is that some of your glitters seem a little off. I don't know how to explain it much better than that... maybe they seem a little too pixely? Like random pixels flashing rather than the illusion of glitter (which is again, random pixels flashing... but you know what I mean)
Anywho, I do quite enjoy your site, keep up the awesome work(:
xoxo,
Jayy























































































































































October 2010



Button by Jayy



[[10.15.10]]
Link Directory

Dear Ella,
What I Like: Your layout is full of really nice colors. They're all bright, and go well together. I like the font and the headers, and your text in general is well done. Your bullets go nicely, as well.
What I would Change: I do not very much like the banner you currently have. It is plain and boring and I feel like it's just there to take up space because of the massive block of content below it that makes it feel somewhat inadequate. So, the big massive block of content below it? Bear in mind that a lot of your viewers have small screens, so the whole block does not fit on the screen, thus creating side scrollers. I am not a fan of side scrolling... just a little pet peeve of mine. So if your viewers don't scroll to the complete right, they won't realize that all of that content is in one overall scroll box, so when they click on a link and it disappears, they'll have trouble finding it. My suggestion is to change your layout. Make it thinner. Make the width of your content the same width as the banner. Add anchor links to create the illusion of more pages when really all the content is on one page. You might also want to add to your credits that all content on sites belongs to its owner... Just a thought. And I encourage you to think outside the box and add any original ideas you have to the site. 20 directories all including the same thing isn't very helpful... since you can't be creative with the main content you offer (links to others' sites) then you have to be creative some other way to gain viewers and users.
Keep going, I know it's hard to make layouts for directories because of all the content you have to try and smush in there, but I think you can do it. It will make your site a lot more viewer friendly. Good luck(:
xoxo,
Jayy



[[10.15.10]]
Resources

Dear Cooliozcoolz,
What I Like: I am quite fond of your name, actually. Other than that, I like the idea of your site - solely resources based. I think a lot of designers that are too busy/lazy (*cough* me *cough*) appreciate places where they can go to get a quick banner or button background, add some text, and then they're done with it. Requests are always good too. I also like the colors of the layout. And the organization is good as well, though I'm not necessarily fond of the one column deal.
What I would Change: The thing about one columns with me is that they can tend to make a page stretch on forever. It's not so much a problem with your site, right now, but I suggest adding some sort of navigation, back to to top, the whole shebang to make navigating your page easier and less... scroll..y. Also, I like the font on your banner... however, I'm not sure about the banner itself. It's not bad, I just feel that you could do more with it. To me, it looks like you copied, pasted, and cropped a neopets background and then applied a pixel filter, added text, and were done in 5 minutes. Try experimenting with colors, hues, brushes, overlays, masks, all those crazy things as I have seen you start to do in other banner backgrounds.
Awesome day to start a site, and you're already doing very well for being only 5 days old. Good luck to you and your site(:
xoxo,
Jayy



[[10.12.10]]
Premade Shields Site

Dear Silverskyline,
What I Like: You have the best shields that I have ever seen. Fo-sho. Seriously though, you have some awesome animation skills and the shields just look really great. Your site is also very neat and not cluttered. I like the star/moon vector-image-thing at the top. And I love the colors.
What I would Change: Personally, I hate Times New Roman font... it makes things uglier for me. It's all about personal preference I suppose, just not one of my favorite fonts. I assume your sidebar navigation is an image map, so this might be more work than it's worth, but I would make each link dim in opacity when it's hovered over. Obviously, if this is one large image, then you would have to cut it up and put each image in separate and position everything, and it would all be a big pain, but it's an idea. I like the navigation at the top, however, I never have been a fan of putting the main neopets links on a petpage... Personally, it's like, I would find links to this page more appropriate then links to "another site". Which, essentially, it is. It's the parent site, the hosting site, to yours, but that doesn't mean you have to link every page of theirs. I just figure, how many times am I looking at a site and thinking "if only there were a link to pet central." If it were me, I would change them to anchor links to navigate about your shields. Also, I would change the color of the links when you hover over them.
Your shields are stunning, and it's even more impressive that you have such fantastic content and don't require credit or have a watermark on them. Kudos to you. And keep up the awesome work(:
xoxo,
Jayy
























































































































































November 2010



Button by Erica



[[11.30.10]]
Directory

Dear Elle,
What I Like: I was intrigued by the title of your site, so I decided to check it out. I'll admit, it wasn't what I expected. I thought "help guide" and assumed that it would be some sort of tutorial/guide sort of site, when really, it is a directory. Although, when you think about it, you are helping your viewers find various sites. The thing is, with listing so many sites, how does it become helpful anymore? (not a fault on you, just a musing on directories in general - and taking that a step further, maybe someone could develop a site with just the top sites of each category. Hmm... I'll have to think about that one) Anyway, sorry for the tangent. You're site is rather organized and I like that you offer more than just the directory. It seems your SOTM is doing well.
What I would Change: Minor things, really. The position of the background header image box thing is way up, and it looks like it's cut off. I'm not sure if it's supposed to be like that, or you just have it positioned too high, but either way, it looks funny to me. Also, it's positioned so far right, that there is a scrollbar. It might be centered on your screen, but on my tiny screen, it is a pain to scroll over to see it. You have a nice layout, but it is so similar to hundreds of other sites out there. That rounded-corner-box-anchor-link look really seems to be in right now. I suggest changing it up somehow to set you apart from everyone else. Also, the navigation at the bottom bothers me because it goes over the edge of the rounded corner. Maybe center it? I guess I'm just one of those people who likes it centered. I can't say I'm a big fan of the brown you used either. Maybe use one of the dark blues from the image? One final thing, when you view the directory, there is a scroll bar on it because it is just a little bit too big for the space. Could you shave off 10 or 20 pixels or so from the boxes that contain all the links so that it fits nicely in the space and doesn't require an extra scrollbar?
Kudos to you on keeping everything updated and new.
xoxo,
Jayy



[[11.22.10]]
Font Premades and Requests

Dear Evan,
What I Like: Your site is fantastic. Everything that most other sites have that I generally comment on - overflow scrolling, not mentioning who you are, not opening links in new windows, borders around images, not being organized - you are the opposite. Your site is put together very well. I love the colors, and the quick navigation on the right hand side (very cute). Use of anchor links is splendid. I loveee your spotlight idea, it's really quite original and it's a good idea. You have great fonts of all sorts. I also think it's great that you offer two different choices for users who request. I am most definitely impressed, partially because I am horrible at making fonts and would never be able to make any good enough to offer up on a site.
What I would Change: Like I said, the usual stuff I say to change, you already have how I would change it to. I suppose the biggest thing would actually be your "go back" buttons on your premade fonts page. There little and right at the top, so someone, who say, get's really excited and starts looking through the fonts paying no attention to the little button, might not realize it's there. Even though you have a big, "BACK TO TOP", who's going to click it thinking it will take them back a page (you know, other than the people who are observant xp) In all seriousness, though, I would suggest a bigger GO BACK button, and maybe one at the bottom as well? I suppose not all your links are open in new tab (just the ones on images you got from neonice or other such places). You might think about changing that for your side navigation... neomail, userlookup, home. Also, what does this neopets pen thing mean? I have no idea. Bahh, I was searching for an FAQ seeing if you explained it for dumb... I mean.. uninformed people like me, (which I couldn't find, so maybe if you explained it. You do have an awful lot of neopet pen only fonts) Anyway, I found that you shorten font codes for people? That's awesome... just saying. Although, I'm not sure what the "spell check for your site" has to do with a font site, but it's ok.
Sorry I didn't have much to change, I just really didn't see much. You have a great site, keep up the good work(:
xoxo,
Jayy



[[11.10.10]]
Requests

Dear Betsy,
What I Like: You have a very nice layout. I like the colors and the style. Everything is neat and easy to find. However, you don't have much content, which is why that is so. I'm guessing that this a new site?
What I would Change: In the future, once you have done more requests, you're going to need more space. Navigation should be added. There should be bigger spaces between categories and sub categories. Sitely information shouldn't be smashed up right against your portfolio and pickups. I find that anchor link layouts are really nice (yet really common) way to make a button request site. Definitely add more fonts and borders, but I assume you're getting to that? I'm also on the edge if I like it's complete non-wordiness or not. I've actually grown accustomed to all these sites with their creative little intros, but I don't know, I kinda like that you stay short and to the point; it makes it easier on your viewers.
I suppose this wasn't too helpful, mainly because it's 12:30 at night and I'm tired and I can't really think of much to change that isn't "needs to be changed, but you haven't gotten to it yet because you're still new" So, I like what you have so far, and I'm sure it will get better as you continue. Definitely make your own borders too. Just throwing that out there.
xoxo,
Jayy



[[11.09.10]]
Review Site

Dear Shelby,
What I Like: You're layout is quite wonderful. I love the browns and the images and the fonts. I like your creative intro and the variety you offer in the way of reviewing.
What I would Change: First, I would make my own layout or at least request a custom made one, rather than using someone's premade. It fits nicely with the site, and it looks great, but it's always better to have your own custom layout. (unless it's awful... then maybe not so much). It's not easy to navigate. The links at the top are to neopets' pages and there are no other links to any of your site's content. (and let me just say that the whole linking to neopets' pages on a personal site -petpage or not - is one of my pet peeves.) But nevermind that, you still have a lack of navigation and it makes your site more of a burden to search through. Although I'm sure you know all this, because you grade people on their layouts. Anyway, I suggest you make sure that your site would get an A on your own review format, or otherwise it makes you slightly hypocritical. Also, at the beginning, you are so into telling a story that the reader/viewer doesn't know you are a review site until much farther down. Though I find the intro very charming and well-done (minus a few typos and grammatical errors), a lot of other people might not take the time to read it, and might bypass your site altogether. It would be a good idea to have it somewhere obvious that you are running a review site. Oh, and just another pet peeve of mine, take the borders off of image links.
Your site is cute and has potential, but you need to kick it up a little. For a brand new site though, you seem to be well underway.
xoxo,
Jayy



[[11.03.10]]
Premades

Dear Alex,
What I Like: I think it's really cool that you let people edit your codings... I know I would have found it really helpful when I was first starting, so kudos on that(: I love. love. LOVE. your layout. It's so autumn-y and elegant. Oh, and the layouts/content you offer, they are fantastic. Very much so.
What I would Change: These are just a few nit-picky things, because I really don't have much to say in this category. Possibly make the footers you have in each section just at the very bottom of the page, or add a footer to match the top. Since your content area is so big, put all the info into a div box and make it smaller (ie; the area above style 1:plain petlookups, make the text fit in a div box that is the same width as the image below and that is centered above it). Make your navigation links more fancy. Perhaps you have and I just don't have that font? I would suggest making them images that are roll overs, so you still get that hover affect, but you can control the font that everyone sees.
I love your site, it is fantastic, and I'm adding it to the hall of fame.
xoxo,
Jayy



[[11.03.10]]
Tutorial

Dear JollyGeek,
What I Like: Wow, I am completely in love with the idea for your site. I love that people can ask you questions and that you provide tutorials based off of that. And that the tutorials are on images so it takes up less space of your page. Oh, and thanks for making the link open in a new tab, honestly. It can become bothersome when it isn't like that. "What happens if I stole all your cookies?" -- hahahahaha, Love it(: only, the grammar geek in me wants to say that it should be steal, otherwise you mess up the whole tense thing.
What I would Change: First, I would just like to make you aware that at the very bottom under misc questions, you typo-ed "got" It took me a second to figure out what you meant :p Second, I know your site is new and all, but I have a few suggestions nonetheless. Make your navigation visited links the same as your regular or active. I never quite understand why people make their visited and regular links different, and I have yet to find a layout where it really works for them. At some point, you should add other pages... you know. Once you get a lot of questions asked, it will help with the organizing and it will make it easier on you. You'll also probably want to add a sitely spot at the very bottom. Either that or add more to your side bar. It just depends on how much info you have in your main column. I suggest putting your affies and your listers in scroll boxes, and also adding a credits section and possibly getting a few more link back buttons. But again, I understand your site is new, and you might have been planning to do this already.
Yes, I really do like your site. It's quite fantastic, and I can't wait to see how it turns out(:
xoxo,
Jayy



[[11.03.10]]
Premades

Dear Mellie,
What I Like: It's a good thing you're running a CSS site, because you seem pretty good at it. Personally, I am horrible at solely css layouts; I just can't seem to make them interesting... So I'm jealous of people like you who can take only coding and make really neat looking layouts. I am really liking your current layout. Blue is my favorite color and I love it with the gray.
What I would Change: Oh my, those text areas are the hardest things to find for (apparently) blind people like me. It helped once I knew what I was looking for, but sheesh... they blend in so well that I was thinking... umm. Click the image? No. Where are the textareas? Possibly make them a little darker or a little bigger? They look fantastic with the layout, and they blend well... but maybe a little too well. And maybe make your headers a little bigger. It's not that it doesn't work for your layout, I just think the text should stand out a little more.
You have a really fantastic site(: Keep up the awesome work.
xoxo,
Jayy


Css {For:You;}
[[11.03.10]]
Tutorial

Dear Summer,
What I Like: You certainly have a lot of information. And I love the header and the base. They match well and they look awesome. The background is pretty nifty too. The colors and headers and links and the whole font aspect of the site is also really well done. Your tutorials are very nicely done and well explained. Granted, this is coming from a person who already knows what you are talking about, but I think that even if I didn't know, it would still be helpful and informative.
What I would Change: You have so much content and it's spread across your whole page and the scrollbar is just so tiny. It's a pain to scroll down through all of that. And yes, you have the navigation on the side, but there's so much that it becomes a little time-consuming. You are already organized. You have everything in a nice order, and I love your grab-and-go's, but I feel like it should be condensed. Not all the information, just the space that you show it in. Also, since you have site information on other pages, I would match those pages to the main one. Keep the whole site uniform.
I can't really offer much help in how to improve your site, because I have no idea how to make it much easier to get information from. I think it's a very nice site, and very helpful too.
xoxo,
Jayy
























































































































































December 2010



Button by Erica



[[12.23.10]]
Premades

Dear Dev,
What I Like: Your layouts are really pretty. Not to sound too simple minded and simplistic, but they are. I love how you have your site layout set up, it's so different from thousands of other layouts I see. Even your past site layouts are different. It's good to see that some sites aren't carbon copies of others. Even if you are basing your look off of something else you saw, it's still not exactly the same as anything else out there. I like that. You have really great content. Your icons are cute, your layouts are fantastic, and top notch quality. Love your name, too, by the way.
What I would Change: First, I would like to note that on your layout previewing page, you missed the Illusen lookup preview so all of your previews are off by one. I love that way of previewing though, I loved it when Autumn Breezes did it and I love it now. However, in your next layout, possibly work in a way that it all stays on the same page? I don't know how much extra coding that is to add back to your main page, but it would keep the site together better if it appeared on the same page. Even if that means changing the size. However, I do commend you on having it pop up in a new tab/-blocked- Wow, wait, it's already all on the same page. Depending on what "preview" link you click, you get different images at the bottom, and the box is slightly bigger than the previews that are in it, so I see the bottom 15 pixels of the previous layout while I'm looking at the preview for the next one. It's messy, you should take a look at it. I like your navigation links, but I don't. Maybe if you changed the font color to the color of the border? Also, in your right side bar, when you hover over all the buttons, it adds a margin to the bottom thus moving the buttons. I'm not sure why it does this, but just one of those little things that bothers me. Like, when I make links that when you hover over them, the letter spacing changes moving all of words in the paragraph. That bothers me, so I don't do it. I believe it's the bottom border you have on it. Which brings me to the bottom border you have on everything. I think you're overdoing it. OK, adding that to hover over bold, ok. Links. fine. But every single word and image on your page? Meh. Especially when instead of just underlining the envelope or bullet you're looking at, it underlines the whole row. I just think it's unnecessary and a little too much. Did you just find those backgrounds, or did you make them? Same with the patterns.
You certainly are a great coder and a great designer. Keep up the awesome work(:
xoxo,
Jayy



[[12.09.10]]
Banner and Icon Requests

Dear Shea,
What I Like: I like your site name. I like the purple that you use. You have pretty good content. I mean, not everything is brilliant, but it's not bad either. I like your banner example, though, just because you have that on the bottom, people could still cut that part off and steal it. It's wrong and shouldn't happen, but if someone really wanted to, they COULD take it, making your statement that they can't, kind of inaccurate. However, I'm not saying you shouldn't have it there, I was just saying. Everything is so neat and nicely laid out on your site.
What I would Change: Small thing, but I would put your request nav links first, before your sitely and all that such. Your content is why your viewer is there, so it should be ahead of your site things. You have all of your link backs on the home page and then on sitely page, you have one link back there, and it isn't even featured on the home page. Put all of your linkbacks in their designated spot under sitely, and only put the featured ones on the home page. You have a great amount of space for one column. Instead of just centering all of your text, it might be neater and more concise if you limited all of your text in a div box half the size of the overall white area. Make your text align to the left, and center the box in that area. Well, probably bigger than halfway, but I think right now it's just too much space. Why do you have the type of border only one the square icon? It's all or nothing - one way or the other. If it's a lazy thing, I'm right there with you, I get bothered with having to fix that sort of thing, but it's just one small easy fix that will take you minutes to do and it will make your site more professional. Woah, crazy, I made a Taylor Swift really similar to yours. Wow. Oh, one final thing, on your homepage, put contact or something above those different links that lead to neomailing you. It's less confusing and gets the point straight across.
Nice site, keep up the work.
xoxo,
Jayy



[[12.09.10]]
Requests & Graphics

Dear Ella,
What I Like: You have good content. You produce high quality work and aren't always closed, so people have the chance of getting a good request. When requesting, you can't always be picky with the ability of the maker, but in your case, no one really has to worry about that. I also like the snow theme and colors, especially for December. I like the fonts you used and everything looks pretty.
What I would Change: Your massive amounts of scrollbars. All of that makes my head swim. I am an avid supporter of the "anchor links in place of the scrollbar". I think that it looks neater and it gives your viewer less to scroll through. You do have the links at the top, but I just feel like the scrollbar is unnecessary. It would require more coding, yes, but I think you just have too much content smooshed into too small a place. I like that you have the color hex codes you used, it's really a great idea, but I don't think you need an "extras" category for that and the FAQ. You can just put them under sitely. Oh, and your Christmas Surprise thing is cute(:
You have a good site, just a lot going on. I am loving all of your resources.
xoxo,
Jayy



[[12.03.10]]
Premades

Dear Kiwi,
What I Like: Your site is fantastic. Seriously. The layout is beautiful, everything is organized nicely, and you have wonderful content. I like that when you click on each navigation, you have a main page there explaining things and giving directions. I think it's good that on your skeleton page, you have links to good CSS guides. Honestly, there is nothing much that I would change about your site. I like your FAQ section, as well. I stare at my screen when naming things, too xD And I like that you use song lyrics. I read "I'm Awake, I'm Alive" on a layout preview and I immediately started rocking out to Skillet in my head. I think it's better than the boring usual way, and it connects with the viewers.
What I would Change: When you display the colors of your layouts, you should make the scrollbox holding them bigger. It took me a bit to realize that there were more colors to scroll through, and I was like "why is she saying there are multiple color schemes when I only see these 2?" Yeah, I do stuff like that sometimes. Anyway, since I read in your FAQ that you generally only have 4 anyway, why not just make it 50 or however many pixels longer and showcase 2 rows instead of just one? Also, I read that you don't mass produce because it isn't your original coding, but lots and lots of sites make color palettes for just this purpose and ones like it, and all they usually require is crediting them somewhere... sometimes not even at all. If you're ever stuck on a color scheme, you could always use one of theirs and then credit them on your site. Although, most likely you are opposed to this, because I assume the thought crossed your mind, but it's just a suggestion. This is going to seem like such a minuscule ridiculous thing to mention, but I really have no other comments - I don't like the greenish light blue you use throughout your navigation. I think it would be better with a more purplish hue to it, like the blue in the header.
Lovely, lovely site. I really do like it, and I believe that I am going to add it to the Hall of Fame(: You deserve it. Don't overwork yourself too much though, your updates say you're busy.
xoxo,
Jayy



[[12.03.10]]
Graphics

Dear Turnip,
What I Like: Alright. I love your site. The layout is different and unique, but it works. The way you have your updates set up is nice, and I like the hover of the navigational links. I also like the flower separators. Wow, the "with a twist" thing is such a clever idea. I know most graphic/web designers, myself included, like to write. I suppose it's because we're all so creative :P Anyway, I think it's awesome and unique to include something like that. Having the information like, the counts of graphics and how to use them and all of that technical stuff at the bottom is a great idea. You have a lot of fantastic quality content. Good resources and such for people to use.
What I would Change: Possibly put your name somewhere, it at least makes it easier for me, but other people like to know who's behind the site as well. Under contacting you, make the links open in a new window/tab. Again, personal preference, I suppose, but that way people don't have to back-track to get to your site. I know you were really excited about getting everything out onto different pages, and I have to ask did it load really slowly before? Because the time it takes to load each new page is a little lengthy. Though, I understand that you have a lot of content, and long loading times just comes with the territory. Small grammar note. In the very first paragraph on the homepage, you use the word "themself" because it could be a boy or a girl reading and you don't want to get gender specific. Please say himself/herself... or even just himself, as that is also grammatically correct. By saying themself, your essentially making it plural and making up a word. I'm curious as to why you have the anchor link different page illusion for your content, but under sitely it's just another means of navigating through a scrollbox.
You really do have a great site, and I was hard-pressed to find suggestions to make on it. I can't wait to see what you do with it in the future.
xoxo,
Jayy



[[12.03.10]]
Contests

Dear Natalie,
What I Like: I've never spotted a ranking/contest/competition site before. My forte is generally in the layout/graphic area, though I've pretty much made and owned every kind of site there is to have. Anyway, I like the different contests you offer. It's not strictly one kind. I like that you edited the layout instead of just taking one in it's entirety, even if you still used the base coding. I also like the colors.
What I would Change: Let's start with the layout. I like the PNG, it's very nicely cut out, however you didn't make it. That's fine, honestly, I just can't really be like GOOD JOB NATALIE, when you didn't cut it out yourself. You have this huge banner and then this teeny-tiny content box at the bottom. I never understood why sites make these HUGE banners that you have to scroll down through to get to their content. It takes forever to load and it's less convenient. Maybe to showcase their talent? I don't know, but nevertheless, it's lopsided. Not in this awful way, just that the content should have more emphasis than the banner. Not sure if I like the splat background or not. Something about it doesn't sit right with me, though I can't put my finger on exactly what - sorry, not very helpful, am I? :p You seem to have a really good handle on editing text in images though. Perhaps you can change the opacity when you hover over your navigation links? As for the content. If your site does not have a history, then don't have a link to the history page. Also, you shouldn't give a specific date of when something will be offered if you're not going to meet it. It just gives you more pressure. Instead of saying "Coming December 2" just say, "COMING SOON!" However, if it gets to be too long, you just shouldn't have that link at all. I suggest adding more contests than just the 4 you have. They're kind of generic, across the board. You could add stuff like poetry/writing contests, drawing contests, layout contests, tutorial-making contests, screenie contests, coloring contests, the list goes on really. I had another idea earlier, but I forgot it =/ *sigh* I'm not sure what "The Elite" has to do with anything. If your main purpose is to have these "Elite" and the competitions just add to it, then you should have a big "Elite" navigation link and organize that however you want there. Maybe mix your rankings with winners of past competitions? Showcase the best of the best right up front, because that's the main purpose of your site.
It's a great start to the site. I was even thinking about joining in some of the contests... though I would have to on this site, since my main site isn't on neo =/ Anyhow, stick with it(:
xoxo,
Jayy



[[12.03.10]]
Button Requests

Dear KTC,
What I Like: Your buttons are great. Obviously, with a button site, that is the most important thing. I do love your layout, though I see you got the base coding from another site. It's a fantastic layout, so I see why you would use it. I love that it's shortened to DAR, [Daughters of the American Revolution] Really, that just makes me think of Gilmore Girls xD Your Christmas special is a great idea. It has given me ideas to add to my own site. No copying, I promise(: I also love that you have resources. It's original and a great add to your site.
What I would Change: The thing about your layout is that it scrolls down well after your content is done. I suppose there is no way to fix this, else you would have fixed it already? I don't want to say that your linkback buttons are hard to find, because they're right there on the front page, but I feel that linkback buttons are almost always under sitely. It's what people have gotten used to. So maybe put all of your linkback buttons there too, and feature your favorite on the home page. I know that's the first place I look for them, though I don't know about everyone else. You have a great banner, perhaps put it on everypage, and not just the home one? I feel like the way you have the last two links organized is a little off. I understand that affies, sister sites, and listers generally always go together, but it's weird to me to split that up from all of your other sitely stuff. If you combined those two pages it might fix the "too-much-extra-space" at the bottom and it helps clear up for confusion for people like me who go "links? like link backs?" Though, I assume most people wouldn't try it twice :p I really should pay more attention my first time around the site xP
Great site, great buttons, great resources. Keep up the good work.
xoxo,
Jayy



[[12.01.10]]
Pixels

Dear Milana,
What I Like: You have great content. Your pixels are adorable, and the stars you have under resources are great - some of the best I've ever seen. The Unazukins are great. I know most pixel sites have their own little specific pixel that the customize for people, but I really like yours. I even considered requesting one for myself, but I really have no place to use it =/ Still, completely adorable.
What I would Change: My biggest problem with your site is the layout. 1. The hearts between the navigation are good, but because it is too big to fit on one line, the heart at the very beginning and the heart at the very end seem out of place. It would probably look more even if you just got rid of those 2 hearts. 2. I like the idea of the lights, I really do. It's clever and creative, but the way you have them displayed isn't that appealing. They look like you took a bigger picture and then shrunk them down so that they got all misshapen and distorted. 3. I know red and green are christmas colors, and I respect and appreciate what you are trying to do, but it's making my head spin. I personally don't like red and green together, so to put that bright green on that bright red doesn't sit well with me. It would be different if you picked one as the main color and then accented it with the other, but right now, both colors are fighting for your attention. Also, the bright red stripes are a little much. It makes it hard to read the soft blue title. Maybe make that stand out a little more? Try giving it a border, maybe stripe it to look like a candycane? Dropshadows can be helpful. 4. This is really a minor thing, and just based off of my personal preference. The textareas bother me. The buttons don't fit 3 in a row, they only fit 2, so why not just line them up in 2 to a row verses the three. And make the textareas the same width as the button so that everything lines up nicely. Also, I know it involves more coding and confusion - ew - but I think your content page would look nicer if the textareas were coded and fitted under each pixel. Just a suggestion. 5. Maybe put your linkbacks on your sitely page? oh and 6. this is going back to color. I think you just need to develop a color scheme. You have light blue, pink, green, and red. You're trying to be christmas, but the pink and blue don't really go well with that. And let me just add, that I really like how your links hover to a pixel font. I would never think to do something like that, but how perfect is that? Pixel font on a pixel site. And it's not overdone either.
I applaud you on your creativity and difference. I just suggest working on your layout. Still, you have wonderful content(:
xoxo,
Jayy
























































































































































June 2011



Button by Jayy


-reviews still on site-



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