Feel free to check out other amazing artists in the latest edition of AfroElle.
Again, congratulations, Tracy on such an amazing feature!
Showing posts with label feature. Show all posts
Showing posts with label feature. Show all posts
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Tracy V Meets AfroElle
One of the joys that an artist can experience is having their work recognized. That recognition could come in a variety of forms. Today, I'm pleased to share one of these forms - a feature in the latest edition of AfroElle Magazine. Congratulations to one of our very own, Tracy Viverretta!
Feel free to check out other amazing artists in the latest edition of AfroElle.
Again, congratulations, Tracy on such an amazing feature!
Feel free to check out other amazing artists in the latest edition of AfroElle.
Again, congratulations, Tracy on such an amazing feature!
Monday, April 1, 2013
Meet Tracy V of "One Brown Crafter"
One Brown Crafter = Art + Craft + Culture
ABOUT ONE BROWN CRAFTER
One Brown Crafter is
a blog that was created 22 months ago by illustrator, recycling
crafter, and DIY expert Tracy Viverretta, to give voice to culturally
diverse artists and crafters by showcasing their work. OBC was also
created to share art related resources and information, establish a
positive, uplifting, creative community and to celebrate cultural
diversity.
ABOUT THE "NATURAL HAIR ART PROJECT"
Spawned by a love of natural hair, Tracy created the "Natural Hair Art Project",
which is a reflection of that love. So every Friday for 52 Fridays in
2013, she shows a new piece of artwork that could be an illustration,
collage, textile painting, embroidery, hand lettering, plush doll or any
number of crafty projects - all related to natural hair. Most of the
NHAP pieces are available for purchase in the One Brown Crafter shop. Tune in every Friday to see the featured piece of the week.
MULTICULTURAL DOLLS COMING APRIL 2013
Tracy's
currently designing a line of multicultural/biracial/ethnic plush dolls.
Her goal is to design several different series with different price
points in mind so they will be accessible to everyone. Tune into One Brown Crafter or Tracyville for upcoming details, photos and updates.
CONTACT INFORMATION
CALL FOR ARTISTS + CRAFTERS:
She's always looking for new artists and crafters to feature on the One
Brown Crafter blog, so all of her contact info is below. If you have any
questions, email her at onebrowncrafter {at}gmail{dot}com.
One Brown Crafter Blog: http://onebrowncrafter.
One Brown Crafter Shop: http://onebrowncrafter.
Tracyville Blog: http://tracyville2.
Tracyville Shop: http://tracyville.
Pinterest: http://pinterest.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Spotlight On....
StormeeJean!
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I am a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, auntie,grand-auntie, sister, niece, cousin, sister-friend, friend. I love being all that and that is what makes me who I am, these are the people in me, they have all made it possible for me to be the artist that I am, they have never seen me as anything else and have always encouraged me to keep doing it. They have love my artwork, even the things I messed up. What have I been doing up to this point? Sewing. I have always had jobs working in sewing factories and tailoring and alterations businesses.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are doing currently?
Praising God! This is not a fantasy for me, I am able to work on my art full time. I love participating in art fairs and exhibiting in galleries. I sometimes put my work on consignment in boutiques. I mainly stick to one-of-a-kind items because I am not into mass-producing my work. I love doing what I do. I put a price on it, if it sells, I am happy.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I offer one-of-a-kind items, that are not done on an assembly line. I also offer custom designs. You will see jackets, coats, fabric boxes, scarves, hats, cloth bags, pillows. But what I really like to do is the coats and jackets, so you will see a lot of those. I have always been intrigued by little boxes so you will also see some of the boxes that I love to make. As a matter of fact, everything in my shop is thing I love to make.
4. Where do you create?
I have turned our master bedroom into my studio, it is a big room and I love the light that comes in the window during the daytime. But really, the whole house is my studio.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
I get my inspiration from God, I meditate and pray and ask His guidance every time I start a new project. Sometimes I just dream the colors and then the piece becomes vivid when I start to put the different colors together. I love music, sometimes I’ll get into some good sounds like one of my coats I made was inspired by Stevie Wonder’s “Songs in The Key Of Life”. I also was inspired by the way that the slaves were transported in the slave ships, they laid side by side, chained together, all different tribes, when I see pictures of how they were transported, I see beautiful, wonderful colors all sewn together to make a beautiful garment.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
I learned from my mother and my grandmother, my grandmother was a quilter and I used to sit with her and learn how to make quilts. My mother always made our clothes and when I was about 10 I made my first pair of pants, I have been sewing since then. Growing up my mother’s motto was “if you learn something you can do with your hands (such as sewing, doing hair, gardening, etc), you will never be broke” I have found that statement to be very true. My mother sewed and she did hair.
7. How do you promote your wares?
I have been doing art fairs, jazz festivals, wearable art festivals, conferences, and I also had an exhibit in The Blandon Art Museum in Fort Dodge, IA. Lately I have been working more with my websites and my Etsy store. Whenever I update any of them, I send out a mass email. Promotion is not one of my strong points this is my year for more promotion. These are my websites:
http://www.stormeejean.etsy.com
http://www.flickr.com/photos/stormeejean/
http://www.stormeeultimatedesigns.com
http://stormeesewgoods.blogspot.com/
And then of course my EAOC Team Blog
http://etsyaoc.ning.com/profile/stormee
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Not selling myself short. And saying no to jobs that I know is going to be a problem.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Don’t give up on your art. Even if it seems that it is not selling, there is a market for all our art or else God would not have put it in us to do. He has a plan for every piece we do, as long as we don’t give up. Don’t mark it down because it doesn’t sell right away, don’t think it won’t sell, if God put it in you to make, it is going to sell at the price you put on it you just have to be patient and make some other stuff. Don’t let anyone tell you that your prices are too high.
10.Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
My list is long, but here are a couple:
Wsir Arts
Blue Chair
Marcia Palmer
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I am a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, auntie,grand-auntie, sister, niece, cousin, sister-friend, friend. I love being all that and that is what makes me who I am, these are the people in me, they have all made it possible for me to be the artist that I am, they have never seen me as anything else and have always encouraged me to keep doing it. They have love my artwork, even the things I messed up. What have I been doing up to this point? Sewing. I have always had jobs working in sewing factories and tailoring and alterations businesses.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are doing currently?
Praising God! This is not a fantasy for me, I am able to work on my art full time. I love participating in art fairs and exhibiting in galleries. I sometimes put my work on consignment in boutiques. I mainly stick to one-of-a-kind items because I am not into mass-producing my work. I love doing what I do. I put a price on it, if it sells, I am happy.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I offer one-of-a-kind items, that are not done on an assembly line. I also offer custom designs. You will see jackets, coats, fabric boxes, scarves, hats, cloth bags, pillows. But what I really like to do is the coats and jackets, so you will see a lot of those. I have always been intrigued by little boxes so you will also see some of the boxes that I love to make. As a matter of fact, everything in my shop is thing I love to make.
4. Where do you create?
I have turned our master bedroom into my studio, it is a big room and I love the light that comes in the window during the daytime. But really, the whole house is my studio.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
I get my inspiration from God, I meditate and pray and ask His guidance every time I start a new project. Sometimes I just dream the colors and then the piece becomes vivid when I start to put the different colors together. I love music, sometimes I’ll get into some good sounds like one of my coats I made was inspired by Stevie Wonder’s “Songs in The Key Of Life”. I also was inspired by the way that the slaves were transported in the slave ships, they laid side by side, chained together, all different tribes, when I see pictures of how they were transported, I see beautiful, wonderful colors all sewn together to make a beautiful garment.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
I learned from my mother and my grandmother, my grandmother was a quilter and I used to sit with her and learn how to make quilts. My mother always made our clothes and when I was about 10 I made my first pair of pants, I have been sewing since then. Growing up my mother’s motto was “if you learn something you can do with your hands (such as sewing, doing hair, gardening, etc), you will never be broke” I have found that statement to be very true. My mother sewed and she did hair.
7. How do you promote your wares?
I have been doing art fairs, jazz festivals, wearable art festivals, conferences, and I also had an exhibit in The Blandon Art Museum in Fort Dodge, IA. Lately I have been working more with my websites and my Etsy store. Whenever I update any of them, I send out a mass email. Promotion is not one of my strong points this is my year for more promotion. These are my websites:
http://www.stormeejean.etsy.com
http://www.flickr.com/photos/stormeejean/
http://www.stormeeultimatedesigns.com
http://stormeesewgoods.blogspot.com/
And then of course my EAOC Team Blog
http://etsyaoc.ning.com/profile/stormee
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Not selling myself short. And saying no to jobs that I know is going to be a problem.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Don’t give up on your art. Even if it seems that it is not selling, there is a market for all our art or else God would not have put it in us to do. He has a plan for every piece we do, as long as we don’t give up. Don’t mark it down because it doesn’t sell right away, don’t think it won’t sell, if God put it in you to make, it is going to sell at the price you put on it you just have to be patient and make some other stuff. Don’t let anyone tell you that your prices are too high.
10.Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
My list is long, but here are a couple:
Wsir Arts
Blue Chair
Marcia Palmer
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Spotlight on .....
Roseline of African Fashions!
Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time?
Hi, my name is Roseline and I have been a custom seamstress since 1984. I own two professtional sewing machines, a Singer CG500C, which can do straight, decorative and flex stitching, and a Kenmore differental feed with 4 spools. I learned my trade in Nairobi, Kenya and now live in Charlotte, NC
Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are doing currently?
I work as a nurse in an old folks home, am married and have a daughter in Kenya. Trying to get her a visa to come here. So far no luck.
What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I can create any style of clothing, not just afrocentric. I am an expert seamstress. I can design and sew what ever you want, and not just women's clothing either, but also men's clothing and children's clothing. I craft my own designs or I can copy a design of your choosing. I am so adept that from the scantiest of information, like a picture or sketch, I can sew for you the fashions you desire. We are happy to quote you a price.
I also have a number of items already made. Kaftans (13) Dresses (8) Blouse and Pant Sets (14) Blouse and Skirt Sets (12) Elegance (2) Blouses (1) Skirts (1) Menswear (2) Childrens(2) Just look in my shop www.africanfashions.etsy.com
Where do you create?
I work at home in a smoke free and pet free enviroment.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
Years of experience, custom orders, fashion magazines, TV shows.
How did you learn how to do your craft?
Trade school in Nairobi and practice.
How do you promote your wares?
Word of Mouth, this blog, business cards, referrals.
What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Be nice to others and they will be nice to you. Also, quality is always the cheapest.
Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
You know how to get to Carnigie Hall?
Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
All of the EAOCers, check out their shops, they all do wonderful work.
Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time?
Hi, my name is Roseline and I have been a custom seamstress since 1984. I own two professtional sewing machines, a Singer CG500C, which can do straight, decorative and flex stitching, and a Kenmore differental feed with 4 spools. I learned my trade in Nairobi, Kenya and now live in Charlotte, NC
Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are doing currently?
I work as a nurse in an old folks home, am married and have a daughter in Kenya. Trying to get her a visa to come here. So far no luck.
What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I can create any style of clothing, not just afrocentric. I am an expert seamstress. I can design and sew what ever you want, and not just women's clothing either, but also men's clothing and children's clothing. I craft my own designs or I can copy a design of your choosing. I am so adept that from the scantiest of information, like a picture or sketch, I can sew for you the fashions you desire. We are happy to quote you a price.
I also have a number of items already made. Kaftans (13) Dresses (8) Blouse and Pant Sets (14) Blouse and Skirt Sets (12) Elegance (2) Blouses (1) Skirts (1) Menswear (2) Childrens(2) Just look in my shop www.africanfashions.etsy.com
Where do you create?
I work at home in a smoke free and pet free enviroment.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
Years of experience, custom orders, fashion magazines, TV shows.
How did you learn how to do your craft?
Trade school in Nairobi and practice.
How do you promote your wares?
Word of Mouth, this blog, business cards, referrals.
What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Be nice to others and they will be nice to you. Also, quality is always the cheapest.
Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
You know how to get to Carnigie Hall?
Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
All of the EAOCers, check out their shops, they all do wonderful work.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Spotlight On....
Terri Collins of Callidora!
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I am a homeschooling mom of 4 wonderful children. In my former life, I was a seamstress, a daycare provider, a Human Resources Manager, a Trainer, and an all around office lackey.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are you doing currently?
I teach classes at a homeschool co-op - mostly crafty classes, Knitting, Crochet, and Sewing; but also Word Roots and Computer keyboarding. I also currently take care of two daycare kids along with my own. I'm getting geared up to teach textile arts in week long summer camps.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I have my handcrafted aprons, handbags, purse organizers, and reversible No Hurt Headbands in my shop. Through our Team Shop, I offer exclusively my new Callidora Home line. Right now, it's just bed pocket organizers and pillows, but soon I will be offering custom window valances, placemats & napkins, and whatever other design pops into my head!
4. Where do you create?
Right now, I create at my dining room table. But the room is sort of becoming overrun (imagine that!), so I am just beyond the planning stage of converting my classroom into a dedicated craft room. (New flooring, craft table, etc. I'm so excited!) It should be ready by late May.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
From the fabric itself most times. It "tells" what it wants to be :) Also, I get inspired by feelings. I want to invoke a sensation or mood with my work. I want people to feel Spring-y, light and airy; or sometimes my piece says "Be wild! Shake your hair loose and flaunt it baby!"
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
Sewing I learned from a class I took when I was 13, then my mom taught me some and the rest I learned from reading. Crochet I learned when I was 5 from my grandmother. Knitting, I'm completely self-taught.
7. How do you promote your wares?
I promote through my blog, TLC Says, Indiepublic, very minimally on MySpace and Flickr, and by word of mouth. I have recently just started offering giveaways on my own blog and I'm offering an item a week on other blogs. That is really getting the word out. Giving away samples is a great way to get people interested in your work.
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Sadly, it's not all about creating your pieces. There's a lot of business know-how needed and you have to stay on top of marketing every day. If you take a week off, it really shows in your sales. Perseverance is key. And most importantly, we artists tend to get dejected easily because our hearts are in our work - so it's important to remember that business is cyclical and don't get down in the slow periods.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Keep your chin up, keep creating, and network as much you can!
10.Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
I do have a few, besides the wonderful artists here on this team. I love Heidi's Handmades and Two Rivers Soap. Dippy LuLu has funny stuff. Fabriclicious for fabrics, Tea Noir for the BEST loose teas, and Four Seasons Fragrance for perfumes.
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I am a homeschooling mom of 4 wonderful children. In my former life, I was a seamstress, a daycare provider, a Human Resources Manager, a Trainer, and an all around office lackey.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are you doing currently?
I teach classes at a homeschool co-op - mostly crafty classes, Knitting, Crochet, and Sewing; but also Word Roots and Computer keyboarding. I also currently take care of two daycare kids along with my own. I'm getting geared up to teach textile arts in week long summer camps.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I have my handcrafted aprons, handbags, purse organizers, and reversible No Hurt Headbands in my shop. Through our Team Shop, I offer exclusively my new Callidora Home line. Right now, it's just bed pocket organizers and pillows, but soon I will be offering custom window valances, placemats & napkins, and whatever other design pops into my head!
4. Where do you create?
Right now, I create at my dining room table. But the room is sort of becoming overrun (imagine that!), so I am just beyond the planning stage of converting my classroom into a dedicated craft room. (New flooring, craft table, etc. I'm so excited!) It should be ready by late May.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
From the fabric itself most times. It "tells" what it wants to be :) Also, I get inspired by feelings. I want to invoke a sensation or mood with my work. I want people to feel Spring-y, light and airy; or sometimes my piece says "Be wild! Shake your hair loose and flaunt it baby!"
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
Sewing I learned from a class I took when I was 13, then my mom taught me some and the rest I learned from reading. Crochet I learned when I was 5 from my grandmother. Knitting, I'm completely self-taught.
7. How do you promote your wares?
I promote through my blog, TLC Says, Indiepublic, very minimally on MySpace and Flickr, and by word of mouth. I have recently just started offering giveaways on my own blog and I'm offering an item a week on other blogs. That is really getting the word out. Giving away samples is a great way to get people interested in your work.
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Sadly, it's not all about creating your pieces. There's a lot of business know-how needed and you have to stay on top of marketing every day. If you take a week off, it really shows in your sales. Perseverance is key. And most importantly, we artists tend to get dejected easily because our hearts are in our work - so it's important to remember that business is cyclical and don't get down in the slow periods.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Keep your chin up, keep creating, and network as much you can!
10.Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
I do have a few, besides the wonderful artists here on this team. I love Heidi's Handmades and Two Rivers Soap. Dippy LuLu has funny stuff. Fabriclicious for fabrics, Tea Noir for the BEST loose teas, and Four Seasons Fragrance for perfumes.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Spotlight on ....
LaMar Lynch of Handcrafted by LaMar!
Note from the interviewer: I, personally, have grown to know LaMar over the last few months and find him to be quite an inspiration! His cards are amazingly beautiful and just have to be seen to be believed. They are keepsakes that will last a lifetime.
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
My name is La-Mar D Lynch and I reside in New York. I started out with poetry (my first love) and always thought I would love to be the man named after Langston Hughes. That never really panned out, found out I may be just a bit too shy for open mic. So I thought, where and/or how else can I get my poetry out there? A book, maybe but publishers are too picky. Then it hit me, how about in a card? Figured I could draw, been doing since I was a teenager (not that I am any good) and add my poetry... I first began with the name DAJaHSI (pronounced: DA-JaH-SI) greetings, the problem with that was it made no money. SO one day when I was feeling down I made what I thought was my last cards and sold them to family members. All of a sudden, I got the energy to chase the dream one last time. I talked to a local store and put the same card designs in there for Christmas. They did okay. A few days later, I remembered I joined this online store thing (which happened to be Etsy). So January 10th I posted what designs I had and sure enough a few days later the sales began to roll in. Though it wasn't how it went in my dreams (you know when you became rich from your craft) it was a sign that said do not give up yet, and so here I still stand.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are doing currently?
I was laid off from work back in November of 2007 and since then I have dedicated my everyday to my craft and building my business. So I pretty much do nothing. Oh, I am a stay at home dad and my son is my number one partner, he keeps me on my toes at the tender age of 20 months.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I offer handcrafted greeting cards for every occasion and moment in life. I do FREE personalization and I am open to custom orders (custom orders have to be at least 1 month in advance).
4. Where do you create?
Well I haven't gotten rich yet so I do all my work in my home. One of the corners of my bedroom looks like the aftermath of a craft war-zone. My wife hates it!
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
I really get inspiration from all over, but there was a statement I read back when I was doing my business plan that had these words in it: "...inspire social expression..." From that moment and statement I said I don't want to inspire, but I want to ...'Inspire and improve social expression and change!'
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
Well I started with drawing the images for my cards at first. Then as I did my business plan and research into my craft/field I saw a lot of handcrafted cards and said "I can do that. Man they should have done that... No that doesn't look right they should... " Then I realized I was creating cards in my mind. So as I have been taught everything is born mentally, then physically, and so that is what I did.
7. How do you promote your wares?
I promote by word of mouth. My group EAOC (Etsy Artists of Color), I have another shop (online), I have done EBay (and will do again), forums, craft shows, promos for others doing craft shows, FREE classified ads, FREE ads all together, Flickr, Myspace, Indiepublic...basically every where I can get in and not pay or not pay too much!
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Most important lesson? I would have to say that it is much harder then it seems, but if you want something you have to put yourself into it and try to make it happen. Don't go crazy but do all you can (some time in your life you have to chase just 1 dream or you will get old and regret if you didn't).
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Stay positive and always believe in yourself first. If you can get with a group, always remember two things:
1- TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK!
2-YOU NETWORK IS YOUR NET WORTH! (think about it)
10.Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
I have so many can't name them all and don't want to name a few and leave any out.
But I will say this the members of EAOC (Etsy Artist of Color) have some REALLY nice stuff. Don't tell them I said so!
Note from the interviewer: I, personally, have grown to know LaMar over the last few months and find him to be quite an inspiration! His cards are amazingly beautiful and just have to be seen to be believed. They are keepsakes that will last a lifetime.
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
My name is La-Mar D Lynch and I reside in New York. I started out with poetry (my first love) and always thought I would love to be the man named after Langston Hughes. That never really panned out, found out I may be just a bit too shy for open mic. So I thought, where and/or how else can I get my poetry out there? A book, maybe but publishers are too picky. Then it hit me, how about in a card? Figured I could draw, been doing since I was a teenager (not that I am any good) and add my poetry... I first began with the name DAJaHSI (pronounced: DA-JaH-SI) greetings, the problem with that was it made no money. SO one day when I was feeling down I made what I thought was my last cards and sold them to family members. All of a sudden, I got the energy to chase the dream one last time. I talked to a local store and put the same card designs in there for Christmas. They did okay. A few days later, I remembered I joined this online store thing (which happened to be Etsy). So January 10th I posted what designs I had and sure enough a few days later the sales began to roll in. Though it wasn't how it went in my dreams (you know when you became rich from your craft) it was a sign that said do not give up yet, and so here I still stand.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are doing currently?
I was laid off from work back in November of 2007 and since then I have dedicated my everyday to my craft and building my business. So I pretty much do nothing. Oh, I am a stay at home dad and my son is my number one partner, he keeps me on my toes at the tender age of 20 months.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I offer handcrafted greeting cards for every occasion and moment in life. I do FREE personalization and I am open to custom orders (custom orders have to be at least 1 month in advance).
4. Where do you create?
Well I haven't gotten rich yet so I do all my work in my home. One of the corners of my bedroom looks like the aftermath of a craft war-zone. My wife hates it!
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
I really get inspiration from all over, but there was a statement I read back when I was doing my business plan that had these words in it: "...inspire social expression..." From that moment and statement I said I don't want to inspire, but I want to ...'Inspire and improve social expression and change!'
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
Well I started with drawing the images for my cards at first. Then as I did my business plan and research into my craft/field I saw a lot of handcrafted cards and said "I can do that. Man they should have done that... No that doesn't look right they should... " Then I realized I was creating cards in my mind. So as I have been taught everything is born mentally, then physically, and so that is what I did.
7. How do you promote your wares?
I promote by word of mouth. My group EAOC (Etsy Artists of Color), I have another shop (online), I have done EBay (and will do again), forums, craft shows, promos for others doing craft shows, FREE classified ads, FREE ads all together, Flickr, Myspace, Indiepublic...basically every where I can get in and not pay or not pay too much!
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Most important lesson? I would have to say that it is much harder then it seems, but if you want something you have to put yourself into it and try to make it happen. Don't go crazy but do all you can (some time in your life you have to chase just 1 dream or you will get old and regret if you didn't).
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Stay positive and always believe in yourself first. If you can get with a group, always remember two things:
1- TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK!
2-YOU NETWORK IS YOUR NET WORTH! (think about it)
10.Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
I have so many can't name them all and don't want to name a few and leave any out.
But I will say this the members of EAOC (Etsy Artist of Color) have some REALLY nice stuff. Don't tell them I said so!
Friday, March 28, 2008
Spotlight On...
Renaissance Austin of Raghouse International!
What an amazing young woman she is! After reading her interview, I found myself quite inspired and I'm sure you will too. Be sure to visit her shop where you find some beautifully and professionally crafted works of wearable art!
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
Hi everyone! I am Renaissance Marie Austin and I am just an all around artsy person. When it comes to the visual and performing arts I am totally consumed. I was born and reared in Los Angeles and was a peculiar child, quiet, and shy, very sentimental and passionate about dreams and life. The first thing that I discovered about myself was that I had a gift of singing. I started hand sewing when I was very young pulling curtains off the window and making skirts out of them. By the time I was 12 I made a complete outfit by hand. I got my first sewing machine when I was 15 and at a friend’s yard sale, but somehow my knitting and crocheting took over my sewing in 2000 and it was fiber arts all the way.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are doing currently?
Currently I am writing and producing music as well as getting ready to start a new job, so I will be working for the man putting in my servant time for a year or so.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I offer a lifestyle everyone is worthy of and longevity of style and comfort through my original knitwear and crochet fashions, accessories, and jewelry.
4. Where do you create?
I create everywhere! At home, in the car, at the studio. Wherever I go my needles, hooks, and yarn go with me.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
I get my inspiration from God, texture, color, what’s going on socially and environmentally in the world, mood, emotion, and inspirations from others.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
I learned crochet from my grandmother when I was eight years of age and just took it and ran with it. When she saw that I caught on well, she would have me sit with her and show me new things. We still share our love for crocheting even now. After avoiding knitting for some years, I finally taught myself how to knit about two years ago. I am so glad that I learned crochet first because I was able to pick up on knitting very easily. I recommend that to anyone who wants to learn both or just knitting, to learn the basics of crochet first.
7. How do you promote your wares?
I do a lot of promoting on Etsy of course, Myspace, email blast and mailing lists. I’ve had a local following for some time now and am so grateful to those who have grown with me. They are so happy to see that I am online now. I also do a lot of word of mouth wherever I go. Business cards, postcards, promotional items, anything that they can make use of and remember me by. I am a walking advertisement at all times. I used to have my whole living room set up as my physical boutique, but have now move everything to my back room, except for my hats and a few displays. This way when people enter my home they can still see what I do. They ask if I make the hats and I say yes and then tell them about etsy!
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Wow, great question. I learned first that having a gift or many gifts and talents is so important because if you put those talents to use you never solely have to rely on anyone or any job. Being shy I’ve learned how to sell to people where before I was uncomfortable selling things to people. I’ve learned buying patterns of different ethnic groups. I took a Branding and Marketing course that really showed me why I wanted to create the business that I have. When I say Raghouse International is a lifestyle, it’s about living life with texture, comfort and a healthy glow. It’s in what you wear, what you eat, and the art that you love. This is the mood that I offer to people. I truly learned that you have to stand strong against the people who don’t believe that crafting can be highly profitable or even believe that what I do will go anywhere. I learned to be the example to those who are afraid to go after what is really inside of them because they believe that they will fail. I find myself telling others all the time that if you believe you will not fail. I never ever thought I would fail and by my example people are inspired.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Yes. I would say first to be confident and have determination. You always have to motivate yourself even when there is no one around to motivate. Without confidence, motivation, and determination you will have not will to move forward and you have to have that. That is the first thing. Be very patient with your craft whatever it may be. Never think that you have arrived with the best product because there is always, always room for growth in your skill, just as I am still growing. Be humble always and don’t let your skill blow your head, especially if you are really, really good at what you do. Truly find out where you belong. So many people suggested ebay to me and I was so unsure about signing up there. I am glad that I waited because when I found etsy, I knew that this was where I belonged. This was my niche. I knew it. I felt in my heart and in my spirit and since opening my shop, etsy has been very good to me. So know in your heart that you are making the right move, going to the right marketplaces, festivals, and being in the right place even online. Know you market and brand yourself. It’s one thing to make something and say this is nice and it’s another to make something that the consumers will love. Listen to your customers because often times they see things that we can’t see from a consumer’s perspective.
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
Oh yes. I am a huge lover of wood. I just don’t know what it is about wood. These are some great shops. Orno, Paradise Hill Designs, and Sketchbook. I also love all the Etsy Artists of Color.
What an amazing young woman she is! After reading her interview, I found myself quite inspired and I'm sure you will too. Be sure to visit her shop where you find some beautifully and professionally crafted works of wearable art!
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
Hi everyone! I am Renaissance Marie Austin and I am just an all around artsy person. When it comes to the visual and performing arts I am totally consumed. I was born and reared in Los Angeles and was a peculiar child, quiet, and shy, very sentimental and passionate about dreams and life. The first thing that I discovered about myself was that I had a gift of singing. I started hand sewing when I was very young pulling curtains off the window and making skirts out of them. By the time I was 12 I made a complete outfit by hand. I got my first sewing machine when I was 15 and at a friend’s yard sale, but somehow my knitting and crocheting took over my sewing in 2000 and it was fiber arts all the way.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are doing currently?
Currently I am writing and producing music as well as getting ready to start a new job, so I will be working for the man putting in my servant time for a year or so.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I offer a lifestyle everyone is worthy of and longevity of style and comfort through my original knitwear and crochet fashions, accessories, and jewelry.
4. Where do you create?
I create everywhere! At home, in the car, at the studio. Wherever I go my needles, hooks, and yarn go with me.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
I get my inspiration from God, texture, color, what’s going on socially and environmentally in the world, mood, emotion, and inspirations from others.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
I learned crochet from my grandmother when I was eight years of age and just took it and ran with it. When she saw that I caught on well, she would have me sit with her and show me new things. We still share our love for crocheting even now. After avoiding knitting for some years, I finally taught myself how to knit about two years ago. I am so glad that I learned crochet first because I was able to pick up on knitting very easily. I recommend that to anyone who wants to learn both or just knitting, to learn the basics of crochet first.
7. How do you promote your wares?
I do a lot of promoting on Etsy of course, Myspace, email blast and mailing lists. I’ve had a local following for some time now and am so grateful to those who have grown with me. They are so happy to see that I am online now. I also do a lot of word of mouth wherever I go. Business cards, postcards, promotional items, anything that they can make use of and remember me by. I am a walking advertisement at all times. I used to have my whole living room set up as my physical boutique, but have now move everything to my back room, except for my hats and a few displays. This way when people enter my home they can still see what I do. They ask if I make the hats and I say yes and then tell them about etsy!
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Wow, great question. I learned first that having a gift or many gifts and talents is so important because if you put those talents to use you never solely have to rely on anyone or any job. Being shy I’ve learned how to sell to people where before I was uncomfortable selling things to people. I’ve learned buying patterns of different ethnic groups. I took a Branding and Marketing course that really showed me why I wanted to create the business that I have. When I say Raghouse International is a lifestyle, it’s about living life with texture, comfort and a healthy glow. It’s in what you wear, what you eat, and the art that you love. This is the mood that I offer to people. I truly learned that you have to stand strong against the people who don’t believe that crafting can be highly profitable or even believe that what I do will go anywhere. I learned to be the example to those who are afraid to go after what is really inside of them because they believe that they will fail. I find myself telling others all the time that if you believe you will not fail. I never ever thought I would fail and by my example people are inspired.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Yes. I would say first to be confident and have determination. You always have to motivate yourself even when there is no one around to motivate. Without confidence, motivation, and determination you will have not will to move forward and you have to have that. That is the first thing. Be very patient with your craft whatever it may be. Never think that you have arrived with the best product because there is always, always room for growth in your skill, just as I am still growing. Be humble always and don’t let your skill blow your head, especially if you are really, really good at what you do. Truly find out where you belong. So many people suggested ebay to me and I was so unsure about signing up there. I am glad that I waited because when I found etsy, I knew that this was where I belonged. This was my niche. I knew it. I felt in my heart and in my spirit and since opening my shop, etsy has been very good to me. So know in your heart that you are making the right move, going to the right marketplaces, festivals, and being in the right place even online. Know you market and brand yourself. It’s one thing to make something and say this is nice and it’s another to make something that the consumers will love. Listen to your customers because often times they see things that we can’t see from a consumer’s perspective.
10. Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
Oh yes. I am a huge lover of wood. I just don’t know what it is about wood. These are some great shops. Orno, Paradise Hill Designs, and Sketchbook. I also love all the Etsy Artists of Color.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Spotlight On....
Dedra Harvin of The Ivory Magnolia!
Dee is one of our Team Leaders! She is dedicated and talented member of Artists of Color, making many things happen behind the scenes. There are many fantastically scented items in her shop! The Ivory Magnolia brings paradise to the body with natural, high quality, 100% handmade bath and body products. Her products do not contain harsh detergents that cause skin irritations, but are loaded with natural ingredients guaranteed to soften, nourish, and recondition the skin. Luxurious products made fresh and delivered to your front door. Here's your chance to learn about the woman behind the fabulous smells.
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
My name is Dedra, but online I prefer to be called Dee. I'm a pastor's wife and stay-at-home-mother of 3 beautiful children. I’m a former tax auditor with 10+ years of experience in fashion merchandising, management, and consulting.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are you doing currently?
Being creative is my life. In addition to my bath & body business, I make floral arrangements, gifts baskets, t-shirts, paper goods, pillows, and handbags.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I make all kinds of bath & body treats including body lotions, creams, sugar scrubs, soaps, and sprays.
4. Where do you create?
I have a butler’s serving pantry that I have turned into a laboratory. It’s a small area but it works for now. Maybe one day I’ll be able to afford a butler.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
Being a southern gal, I am inspired by food and nature. I’ve often thought about making “grits and grass” soaps and “bacon & fried chicken” body creams.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
It all started out of on my own curiosities and I began experimenting with items in my kitchen. My first creation: a sugar scrub made with olive oil, sugar, and green tea leaves from a tea bag! It smelled horrible, but worked great! Not only did my skin look and feel better...but I felt better! I began to research and experiment with other natural oils from a local fresh market. I soon connected with a local bath & body supplier, who shared with me a wealth of knowledge on formulating and preservation. I’ve been doing this for almost 2 years, I can’t imagine doing anything else.
7. How do you promote your wares?
Word-of-mouth, giving samples to strangers, freebies to family & friends, and handing out business cards everywhere.
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Organization is a must.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Take clear, sharp pictures, print your own labels, get free/low cost promo material from vistaprint.com, and provide quality customer service.
10.Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here? PixelbyPixel.etsy.com is an awesome artist in Costa Rica who makes professional products to help you promote your shop. TheDreamGiraffe.etsy.com is a fellow South Carolinian whose artwork I adore.
website: http://theivorymagnolia.com
shop: http://theivorymagnolia.etsy.com
myspace: http://myspace.com/theivorymagnolia
Dee is one of our Team Leaders! She is dedicated and talented member of Artists of Color, making many things happen behind the scenes. There are many fantastically scented items in her shop! The Ivory Magnolia brings paradise to the body with natural, high quality, 100% handmade bath and body products. Her products do not contain harsh detergents that cause skin irritations, but are loaded with natural ingredients guaranteed to soften, nourish, and recondition the skin. Luxurious products made fresh and delivered to your front door. Here's your chance to learn about the woman behind the fabulous smells.
1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
My name is Dedra, but online I prefer to be called Dee. I'm a pastor's wife and stay-at-home-mother of 3 beautiful children. I’m a former tax auditor with 10+ years of experience in fashion merchandising, management, and consulting.
2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are you doing currently?
Being creative is my life. In addition to my bath & body business, I make floral arrangements, gifts baskets, t-shirts, paper goods, pillows, and handbags.
3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I make all kinds of bath & body treats including body lotions, creams, sugar scrubs, soaps, and sprays.
4. Where do you create?
I have a butler’s serving pantry that I have turned into a laboratory. It’s a small area but it works for now. Maybe one day I’ll be able to afford a butler.
5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
Being a southern gal, I am inspired by food and nature. I’ve often thought about making “grits and grass” soaps and “bacon & fried chicken” body creams.
6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
It all started out of on my own curiosities and I began experimenting with items in my kitchen. My first creation: a sugar scrub made with olive oil, sugar, and green tea leaves from a tea bag! It smelled horrible, but worked great! Not only did my skin look and feel better...but I felt better! I began to research and experiment with other natural oils from a local fresh market. I soon connected with a local bath & body supplier, who shared with me a wealth of knowledge on formulating and preservation. I’ve been doing this for almost 2 years, I can’t imagine doing anything else.
7. How do you promote your wares?
Word-of-mouth, giving samples to strangers, freebies to family & friends, and handing out business cards everywhere.
8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Organization is a must.
9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Take clear, sharp pictures, print your own labels, get free/low cost promo material from vistaprint.com, and provide quality customer service.
10.Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here? PixelbyPixel.etsy.com is an awesome artist in Costa Rica who makes professional products to help you promote your shop. TheDreamGiraffe.etsy.com is a fellow South Carolinian whose artwork I adore.
website: http://theivorymagnolia.com
shop: http://theivorymagnolia.etsy.com
myspace: http://myspace.com/theivorymagnolia
Friday, February 29, 2008
Spotlight On...
Crystal Leslie of Ayana Creations!
Crystal currently resides in Richmond, VA. Ayana Creations, which blossomed on March 16, 2007, is the place where beads become life. She makes beaded flowers, jewelry and accessories. Ayana means "beautiful flower" in Ethiopian and so, she sculpts beautiful flower creations! Her gift is creating beaded flowers using the vintage art of French beading. Her flowers can be used for decorating, just like real flowers. What makes them unique is that they can be passed down as heirlooms and they truly are works of art.
She began making beaded flowers for stress relief when she was a domestic violence counselor. She is a self-taught artist and is passionate about making flowers come to life through seed beads. Her inspiration comes from everything around her, especially nature. She also donates a portion of her proceeds to local non-profit agencies.
Crystal currently resides in Richmond, VA. Ayana Creations, which blossomed on March 16, 2007, is the place where beads become life. She makes beaded flowers, jewelry and accessories. Ayana means "beautiful flower" in Ethiopian and so, she sculpts beautiful flower creations! Her gift is creating beaded flowers using the vintage art of French beading. Her flowers can be used for decorating, just like real flowers. What makes them unique is that they can be passed down as heirlooms and they truly are works of art.
She began making beaded flowers for stress relief when she was a domestic violence counselor. She is a self-taught artist and is passionate about making flowers come to life through seed beads. Her inspiration comes from everything around her, especially nature. She also donates a portion of her proceeds to local non-profit agencies.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Spotlight on ...
Jamila of Jamilary!
This week's Spotlight is on Jamilary (pronounced juh-MEE-luh-ree)! Jamila was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, though currently residing in South Burlington, VT. Jamilary launched on March 17, 2007. Jamila's jewelry designs incorporate freshwater pearls, semiprecious stones, and natural materials acquired through her worldwide travels and the travels of her family.
Jamila herself describes Jamilary as trendy, classy, custom-made, handmade works of artistic jewelry. Through her 25 years, she has been a student of fashion with a keen eye for her personal sense of style and she has not been afraid to set the trend.
You can visit her shop or see her on MySpace.
This week's Spotlight is on Jamilary (pronounced juh-MEE-luh-ree)! Jamila was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, though currently residing in South Burlington, VT. Jamilary launched on March 17, 2007. Jamila's jewelry designs incorporate freshwater pearls, semiprecious stones, and natural materials acquired through her worldwide travels and the travels of her family.
Jamila herself describes Jamilary as trendy, classy, custom-made, handmade works of artistic jewelry. Through her 25 years, she has been a student of fashion with a keen eye for her personal sense of style and she has not been afraid to set the trend.
You can visit her shop or see her on MySpace.
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