1. What kind of art or crafts do you make? My main focus is creating accessories from found materials, primarily unisex wallets created from upcycled vintage neckties.
2. When did you get started – and when did you realize this could be a business? I started crafting and repurposing things as a pre-teen; creating better uses for the things I found around the house, garage sales and thrift stores. I began focused projects in 2005 when I was gifted a sewing machine. The first time I showed my handmade items publicly was at a local craft show in my neighborhood park that same year. I ended up selling everything I brought with me at that first craft show; I couldn’t believe it! Throughout the day everyone kept asking me where my physical store was located, and it was then when I realized that this is something I could grow into a business.
3. Where do you get inspiration for your projects? I am inspired by vintage fabrics and prints, and the satisfaction of being able to create something useful out of something that has been stuffed in a box for years. My inspiration is usually fueled by necessity. ‘Necessity is the mother of invention.”.
4. What do you like best about selling through more traditional venues (craft fairs)?
There are so many things to love about selling at craft shows. I love Love LOVE meeting clients face to face at craft shows. Seeing their faces light up when they realize that the item they’re admiring visually, used to be something else entirely. I also really enjoy planning for and merchandising my display and always dedicate time for that in my pre-show planning. Another part of craft shows that I enjoy tremendously is the camaraderie with other makers and the event staff. I’ve grown to really cherish and rely on that creative network over the years.
5. Now, what do you like best about selling online? I am a creature of habit, structure, routine and symmetry. I enjoy the structure of an online shop, being able to write my own descriptions and market my products exactly how I like. And the reports…the analytical side of online selling really gets me going!
6. How do you price your work? Just like most sellers, I take into consideration the time it takes to design, create, photograph, package, and list a product as well as the cost of the materials. After working those numbers, I think like a buyer and ask myself if I would be willing to pay more or less.
7. What has been your biggest struggle with your business? How did you overcome it? As a single mom with a child at home 24/7, I am constantly struggling to find time to make enough products to stock for upcoming craft shows, enough inventory for my online shop, as well as consignment and wholesale orders. Sometimes I get way ahead and other times my inventory is really low. Until my situation changes, I simply just try to make the most of it.
8. What has been the most rewarding part of your business? I’m not just a crafter, or a maker of handmade things. I also live a creative lifestyle, and enjoy sharing it with others. In turn, I feel rewarded in two ways: 1) the positive energy I feel when friends and fans mention that they not only noticed, but have been inspired by my creativity at some point, and 2) watching my son naturally integrate upcycling and creativity into his daily life and conversation.
9. What is something you wish you knew when you were first starting your business? More information on the legalities and process of running a business.
10. Do you mind sharing a business goal that you hope to accomplish with your business? About six months ago I moved from Michigan to Florida. Once my schedule opens up a bit, I will be focusing on building my inventory. Until then I am working on establishing new craft show and retail networks in the Tampa Bay area.