Hello everyone! Let me introduce to you a fellow Milwaukee area crafter, Gabriella!
How did your shop begin?
I have always had a passion for creating things from scratch with my own two hands, especially if it's something beautiful I can give to someone else. I had heard about Etsy through another crafty friend, and I decided it was about time to share my work with other people.
What is your creative process?
I don't think I ever start out with a specific project in mind. I love looking through other Etsy shops, especially shops that sell unique stones and feathers. I see a particular gem or plume and I think, "What can I make with that?" Once it's in my possession, it's a very organic process; I let it become what it wants.
What has been your biggest crafting disaster?
I would say buying a large bulk of feathers from a chain craft store. I found out that they probably aren't cruelty-free, and it's now my goal to only create pieces that contain cruelty-free feathers.
What are your current projects?
I just made two large orders of feathers from other Etsy sellers, and I can hardly contain myself for them to arrive! I picture several beautiful sets of earrings and a few fascinators. I am also gearing up for my first craft fair, and therefore a lot of my "crafting time" involves increasing my inventory.
Any advice for those who want to start their own shop?
Network, network, network. Set up accounts for your shop on Facebook and Twitter, and consider starting a blog. Look through successful Etsy shops, and take note of how they represent their brand, how they describe their items, and the quality of their craftsmanship. Also, make sure to photograph your items properly! No one wants to buy an item that is poorly photographed. Finally, get involved in as many aspects of Etsy as possible: create your own treasury lists, join teams, and add other members to your circle. I can't stress enough that being successful is all about exposure.
You can find Gabriella here:
She is also kind enough to offer my readers 15% off their first purchase! Just use the code NEW15 at checkout to get 15% off Gabriella's amazing jewelry!
