This week, I'm very excited to introduce Ratcha, from DooDesign. Ratcha makes some of the most adorable items I've come across on Etsy, and I'm thrilled that she's sharing a bit of her story with us. :)
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am a mom with two children. I am 40 years old. I grew up with an average family in a small town in northern Thailand. My mother is a seamstress and she has a sewing shop and native fabric store and it grew up, respectively. So, I learned many things from my mother about sewing in my childhood. After graduated a degree in fine arts, I had the opportunity to work in clothing design at Department of Export Promotion and Design Institute of Lanna in Chiangmai. Currently, I am working helping my brother in his Buddha factory as the export assistance.
When did you first begin creating?
As I can remember, I have started to build lots of things when I was young, I remember that I love to do a floating basket "Krathong" is made from banana leaves, and I do it sale in the festival as well. But, if it is to create products to sell in my store. I started creating it around 6-7 months ago.
What led you to open a shop for your art/craft?
Because have time for family and spending time at home enough. I use materials I have and bought some to produce as the product that I feel is valuable because it is a craft that anyone may be looking for. It is a great way to make money without having to go out. And it is the inspiration to lead me open the shop.
What is a typical work day like for you?
Part is that my responsibility as an employee in my brother’s factory. Another part is work that I am responsible for my children and parents as a daughter and a mom.
How do you juggle the many tasks of running a creative business?
My job is not that big and too much busy. So it is not difficult to manage or plan. I just think of what I will need to do tomorrow, supply of materials and creating when I have time. That is simple of care and manages to create my product each and every day.
What is your favorite item that you’ve created, ever?
It is the handbag that I have sold out. I created 2 handbags with wooden handles different color. One I placed in my shop. And the other one I gave to my mother a birthday present to her.
What is your favorite item in your shop, now?
My favorite item is the pink handbags with 2 fabric flowers that I have left 1 in my shop. It took time to create and I do like the silk flowers as well.
Is there anything that you would like to learn or do to expand on or improve what you create now?
No… ^_^
What advice would you share with other artists/crafters who sell their items?
Try to find time to learn and view the results of your friend seller and communication, exchange of ideas, talk or share links or blocks. And especially is community. Social network is another way to communicate news to the people in our world to let them know your shop.
Aside from creating, what do you enjoy doing?
I enjoy cooking, sporting, and taking a photograph everywhere I go.
If you could do anything at all, what would it be? Why?
Hahaa…ok. I wanted to create a new world of freedom, with the smile of the people. I believe this makes our planet livable. The problem with people in society came from "people" as the cause. The selfishness of the people caused by the violence. At the same time I do not want the flood, storm, earthquake or other natural disasters that cause the loss, fear it means the suffering of the people.
Where would you travel if time and money were no object? Why?
I would like to go to the beach or find beautiful island somewhere in the world. I will need to feel relax, no need to be worried for anything. Just lay down and do what ever I want to do.
Where can we find you online? (Etsy shop, blog, etc)
Etsy: http://www.doodesign.etsy.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/DooDesign/337006332976116
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/doodesignshop
Blog: http://ratchaleonard.blogspot.com
Blog: http://doodesignshop.worldpress.com
Thank you, Ratcha, for taking the time to share a bit about yourself and your process!
Showing posts with label Friday Feature. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Friday Feature. Show all posts
Friday, June 29, 2012
Friday, May 25, 2012
Friday Feature - Kendra, from Copper Tree Art
This week, I'm thrilled to introduce you to Kendra, from Copper Tree Art.
If you're a fan of the bohemian, you'll love her jewelry. If you love earthy jewelry, you'll love the pieces that she makes. From rings to bracelets to necklaces to earrings, the items that she hand crafts are both unique and lovely.
And she's been kind enough to answer some questions. :)
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I currently live in Southern California. I am a dolphin trainer and have a huge heart for animals!
When did you first begin creating?
I have always had a creative side to me. From a young age I enjoyed arts and crafts and often made my own clothes and jewelry so that I could tailor it to my style.
What led you to open a shop for your art/craft?
I started taking metalsmith jewelry classes a few years ago and fell in love with it. I began making jewelry for myself, but often got asked if I sold my jewelry by friends and family. That led me to start selling my jewelry at a local farmers market and then open my etsy page.
What is a typical work day like for you?
I've very fortunate to train dolphins for a living. It is a dream job for me that allows me to swim with these animals everyday!
How do you juggle the many tasks of running a creative business?
My jewelry making has become a passion of mine. When I have free time, I love to go down stairs to my studio and create new pieces. Some weeks I get a lot of jewelry made, and other weeks I don't have time to work on it at all.
What is your favorite item that you’ve created, ever?
I love patinas, they are unpredictable and result in beautiful and colorful pieces. My favorite pieces to wear are my patina necklaces.
What is your favorite item in your shop, now?
Currently, my blue moonstone ring is my favorite item in my shop!
Is there anything that you would like to learn or do to expand on or improve what you create now?
I take a metalsmith class every week which helps me constantly learn new techniques and have a group of women to bounce design ideas off of.
What advice would you share with other artists/crafters who sell their items?
Promote your work, and create what you love! I wear all of my jewelry which helps me promote it!
Aside from creating, what do you enjoy doing?
I'm an avid animal lover and enjoy listening to music and going to concerts.
If you could do anything at all, what would it be? Why?
I would love to travel more. I recently got the opportunity to travel to India, Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore. It was an incredible experience and has given me the itch to travel more!
Where would you travel if time and money were no object? Why?
Australia, I want to dive on the great barrier reef.
Where can we find you online?
My Etsy shop is www.coppertreeart.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Copper-Tree-art-jewelry/232523256821023
Thank you for sharing your art and your time, Kendra!
If you're a fan of the bohemian, you'll love her jewelry. If you love earthy jewelry, you'll love the pieces that she makes. From rings to bracelets to necklaces to earrings, the items that she hand crafts are both unique and lovely.
And she's been kind enough to answer some questions. :)
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I currently live in Southern California. I am a dolphin trainer and have a huge heart for animals!
When did you first begin creating?
I have always had a creative side to me. From a young age I enjoyed arts and crafts and often made my own clothes and jewelry so that I could tailor it to my style.
What led you to open a shop for your art/craft?
I started taking metalsmith jewelry classes a few years ago and fell in love with it. I began making jewelry for myself, but often got asked if I sold my jewelry by friends and family. That led me to start selling my jewelry at a local farmers market and then open my etsy page.
What is a typical work day like for you?
I've very fortunate to train dolphins for a living. It is a dream job for me that allows me to swim with these animals everyday!
How do you juggle the many tasks of running a creative business?
My jewelry making has become a passion of mine. When I have free time, I love to go down stairs to my studio and create new pieces. Some weeks I get a lot of jewelry made, and other weeks I don't have time to work on it at all.
What is your favorite item that you’ve created, ever?
I love patinas, they are unpredictable and result in beautiful and colorful pieces. My favorite pieces to wear are my patina necklaces.
What is your favorite item in your shop, now?
Currently, my blue moonstone ring is my favorite item in my shop!
Is there anything that you would like to learn or do to expand on or improve what you create now?
I take a metalsmith class every week which helps me constantly learn new techniques and have a group of women to bounce design ideas off of.
What advice would you share with other artists/crafters who sell their items?
Promote your work, and create what you love! I wear all of my jewelry which helps me promote it!
Aside from creating, what do you enjoy doing?
I'm an avid animal lover and enjoy listening to music and going to concerts.
If you could do anything at all, what would it be? Why?
I would love to travel more. I recently got the opportunity to travel to India, Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore. It was an incredible experience and has given me the itch to travel more!
Where would you travel if time and money were no object? Why?
Australia, I want to dive on the great barrier reef.
Where can we find you online?
My Etsy shop is www.coppertreeart.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Copper-Tree-art-jewelry/232523256821023
Thank you for sharing your art and your time, Kendra!
Friday, May 11, 2012
Friday Feature - Marnie, from ReWoolables
For our very first Friday Feature, I'd like to introduce...Marnie, from ReWoolables!
Marnie creates items that are both beautiful and extremely useful (eyeglass cases or wallets, anyone?) out of wool that she's reclaimed and felted herself. She's answered some questions to give us an in depth look at who she is and what she does.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m currently a SAHM, but used to teach mathematics at the local high school. I met my husband on an archaeological field school (aka – ‘learn how to dig’) while at college. He is an archaeologist. Yes, I live in Indiana and thus, I’m married to Indiana Jones.
When did you first begin creating?
I’ve always been ‘crafty’. For my bedroom as a kid, my dorm room at college, at home, for my classroom...
What led you to open a shop for your art/craft?
Long story short – holding a load of wool sweaters, struggling to keep my 1st felted wool purse I made on my arm, and wearing a sweater I made from 4 other discarded sweaters while standing in line at Goodwill, a woman figured out that I must be purchasing these things to make stuff. (What tipped her off, I wonder? Ha-ha) She asked if I would be willing to sell some items in her shop. And I was off and sewing!
What is a typical work day like for you?
Get the kid to school, come back to the house and tidy up the least I can without still being disgusted, check email / do the social media thing, run errands, sew. Or…now that weather is nice, I try to get out and tend to my gardens. Some days I have more time to sew than others.
How do you juggle the many tasks of running a creative business?
Fortunately, hubby likes to do the website stuff. I can’t stand it. Second, I’m not looking to make a million dollars, so I just do what I can when I can and have to be happy with that. I feel that I could do better and more…but at what cost? Something would suffer. The house already does! (Ha!)
What is your favorite item that you’ve created, ever?
A funky scrap patchwork pillow from wool sweaters.
What is your favorite item in your shop, now?
Honestly, I think my polka dotted book mark because it is so simple and an excellent way to use up my scraps.
Is there anything that you would like to learn or do to expand on or improve what you create now?
I just purchased a serge or over lock machine. I haven’t a clue how to use it. Egad.
What advice would you share with other artists/crafters who sell their items?
When the thread keeps breaking, you snap a needle, you sewed it the wrong way…all in the same day…take a break. The universe is trying to tell you to recharge.
Aside from creating, what do you enjoy doing?
Gardening. Reading. Playing with herbs for home remedies.
If you could do anything at all, what would it be? Why?
This is going to sound so mundane. I would hire a personal chef and maid. I detest grocery shopping, planning meals, and cleaning the house.
Where would you travel if time and money were no object? Why?
Ireland. Germany. Scotland. Britain. I am fascinated with the Medieval Ages. I would like to visit old castles, ruins, and villages that are standing after 700 years. The lush green of Ireland with all the stone walls, little cottages just soothes my soul when I look at the pictures. I love folklore and mystique. I want to see a fairy! So, I better go to Ireland.
Where can we find you online?
On Twitter: @ReWoolables
On Facebook: facebook.com/ReWoolables
My website which is just a “here I am” kinda thing right now…ReWoolables.com
I am soon to launch a blog on that site!
And on Etsy – Etsy.com/ReWoolables.
Thank you, Marnie, for being our very first featured artist!
Marnie creates items that are both beautiful and extremely useful (eyeglass cases or wallets, anyone?) out of wool that she's reclaimed and felted herself. She's answered some questions to give us an in depth look at who she is and what she does.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m currently a SAHM, but used to teach mathematics at the local high school. I met my husband on an archaeological field school (aka – ‘learn how to dig’) while at college. He is an archaeologist. Yes, I live in Indiana and thus, I’m married to Indiana Jones.
When did you first begin creating?
I’ve always been ‘crafty’. For my bedroom as a kid, my dorm room at college, at home, for my classroom...
What led you to open a shop for your art/craft?
Long story short – holding a load of wool sweaters, struggling to keep my 1st felted wool purse I made on my arm, and wearing a sweater I made from 4 other discarded sweaters while standing in line at Goodwill, a woman figured out that I must be purchasing these things to make stuff. (What tipped her off, I wonder? Ha-ha) She asked if I would be willing to sell some items in her shop. And I was off and sewing!
What is a typical work day like for you?
Get the kid to school, come back to the house and tidy up the least I can without still being disgusted, check email / do the social media thing, run errands, sew. Or…now that weather is nice, I try to get out and tend to my gardens. Some days I have more time to sew than others.
How do you juggle the many tasks of running a creative business?
Fortunately, hubby likes to do the website stuff. I can’t stand it. Second, I’m not looking to make a million dollars, so I just do what I can when I can and have to be happy with that. I feel that I could do better and more…but at what cost? Something would suffer. The house already does! (Ha!)
What is your favorite item that you’ve created, ever?
A funky scrap patchwork pillow from wool sweaters.
What is your favorite item in your shop, now?
Honestly, I think my polka dotted book mark because it is so simple and an excellent way to use up my scraps.
Is there anything that you would like to learn or do to expand on or improve what you create now?
I just purchased a serge or over lock machine. I haven’t a clue how to use it. Egad.
What advice would you share with other artists/crafters who sell their items?
When the thread keeps breaking, you snap a needle, you sewed it the wrong way…all in the same day…take a break. The universe is trying to tell you to recharge.
Aside from creating, what do you enjoy doing?
Gardening. Reading. Playing with herbs for home remedies.
If you could do anything at all, what would it be? Why?
This is going to sound so mundane. I would hire a personal chef and maid. I detest grocery shopping, planning meals, and cleaning the house.
Where would you travel if time and money were no object? Why?
Ireland. Germany. Scotland. Britain. I am fascinated with the Medieval Ages. I would like to visit old castles, ruins, and villages that are standing after 700 years. The lush green of Ireland with all the stone walls, little cottages just soothes my soul when I look at the pictures. I love folklore and mystique. I want to see a fairy! So, I better go to Ireland.
Where can we find you online?
On Twitter: @ReWoolables
On Facebook: facebook.com/ReWoolables
My website which is just a “here I am” kinda thing right now…ReWoolables.com
I am soon to launch a blog on that site!
And on Etsy – Etsy.com/ReWoolables.
Thank you, Marnie, for being our very first featured artist!
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Friday Features
Recently I've been flattered to have been featured on a handful of blogs. I've met some great people, had a lot of fun, found some awesome new blogs to follow and inspiring new artists to watch.
To spread the love, we'll be doing Friday artist features here, too. Watch for the first feature post tomorrow morning. :)
To spread the love, we'll be doing Friday artist features here, too. Watch for the first feature post tomorrow morning. :)
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