Becky Lee demonstrated how to create a Treasury
Andrew told us about the Made in Philly catalog
Suzanne told us about her South Street storefront ideaJoin us for the next meeting at 6:00 pm on March 20
at the Mew Gallery at 906 Christian St.
Showing posts with label Etsy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Etsy. Show all posts
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Team Meeting February: 3rd Friday of Every Month!
Becky Lee demonstrated how to create a Treasury Andrew told us about the Made in Philly catalog Suzanne told us about her South Street storefront ideaJoin us for the next meeting at 6:00 pm on March 20
at the Mew Gallery at 906 Christian St.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Team Member Yasha Butler is a Featured Seller on ETSY Front Page!
Congrats Yasha! What an interesting interview!
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Philly Etsy Team Gift Swap
So I just got back from a Philly Etsy team gift swap. I got tons of great goodies and met some new folks! In attendance: the creators of Gigglepotamus, Gray Overcast, Sqrl & Bee, Nana Chic, Tremundo, Vermillion Frog and Flying Fox (that's me). Some of our friends were there too. Traci of Tremundo was awesome enough to put this event together, and hosted too. Thanks everyone!
Monday, October 27, 2008
Meeting Maria Thomas, Etsy's CEO
On Thursday, October 23rd, a group of 6 Philly Team Etsians met with Maria Thomas,
the CEO of Etsy. Rumored to be a simple meet-and-greet, the gathering quickly shifted from social pleasantries to a vibrant Etsy research and development session. Maria guided us with incisive questions. Her goal was to stimulate an informative talk session where she could be like a fly on the wall, listening and taking notes that could guide future improvements for Etsy.
Etsy's CEO was really interested in our experiences as individual Etsy sellers, so we started there. As we went around the circle introducing ourselves and sharing our stories about discovering and using Etsy, our small group revealed itself to be pretty diverse.This helped with the lively discussion that followed.
*One attendee, Jennifer of jericasjewelry, is new to Etsy.
*Suzy (KlaatuCollection) has been with Etsy since its beginnings.
*Sarah (RedRedOrange) relocated from San Fran.
*Allison (AllisonOstertag) is a strong member of Etsy and the Philly Team.
*Sarah ,our hostess, is head of all the Etsy teams world-wide as well as proprietress of girlscantell.
*And yours truly, Suzanne, is a one year etsian (insitudecorativearts) just returning to active membership.
One thing I love about Etsy is the ever-present evidence of thoughtful, supportive and persistent in-house development. New features and tools seem to be always in the works, which is a good thing. Yet with complexity and rapid growth come challenges. With these realities in mind, our group began sharing feedback about the pluses and minuses of the Etsy interface system as it impacts both sellers and shoppers.
Navigation and search capabilities are at the forefront of any talk about Etsy. We talked about tags, the linking search words entered by sellers. How can we make things even easier for shoppers searching for goods while increasing traffic and sales to appropriate shops? Search results from entering tags can number in the hundreds, with the most recently listed (or re-listed) goods given priority at the beginning of the long list. Is this helping people find the incredible items they covet or is it a daunting hindrance?
Our new member Jennifer was often the focus for questions about the Etsy system. She wasn't shy about pointing out the problems she had encountered as a first time seller setting up shop.
Maria made clear that making the site more user-friendly and fun for novices, whether they be buyers or sellers, is a priority for her.
The pros and cons of listing items was next on the agenda. It is a task that many busy crafters find overly time-consuming. The square format for thumbnails was bemoaned; Is there some way to have a tool where the seller could manipulate their photo within the square crop to avoid cutting off important features? How about sellers that have different colors, sizes, etc., available for one item? Is it possible to incorporate those choices into the listing process rather than requiring sellers to list each similar item separately? Or rely on customers using convos to indicate size, color and other variations, which buyers many times forget to enter? Customers would than have the option to fill out this info during a purchase transaction.
Support features for Etsy members were examined . Many described their difficulties in locating and using The Storque( the Etsy Blog), Community, Treasuries (did you know there was a Treasury West? I didn't), The Virtual Lab (Thursday event where you can log on and ask questions. I didn't understand this great feature either). Improvements seem to be on their way in this realm.
The benefits of teams, especially those based on locale like the Philly team, was discussed throughout. Locale teams, versus those defined by art form, used to be called Street teams but that moniker is kinda being fazed out. But the distinction still stands, and i think our members will agree that there are many benefits inherent in joining a real, rather than virtual, team.
Some of the team benefits delineated were:
*Pooling of skill sets to share for group projects.
*An ever-growing base to ask and answer questions about Etsy and crafting in general.
*Organizing of local craft events.
*Mentorship and support for new members.
*Resource sharing.
The possibilities seem endless.
So, our productive meeting sadly came to an end. We all stood up, drank a little more wine/mineral water while Maria was shown one of the teams' goodie bags from DesignPhiladelphia. Then, as we loosely gathered out front, Maria seemed to disappear. As we looked up Ninth street we could see her gamely hailing a cab, NYC style. We waved good-bye as she sped away to catch her train for Brooklyn. She truly is a busy CEO.
the CEO of Etsy. Rumored to be a simple meet-and-greet, the gathering quickly shifted from social pleasantries to a vibrant Etsy research and development session. Maria guided us with incisive questions. Her goal was to stimulate an informative talk session where she could be like a fly on the wall, listening and taking notes that could guide future improvements for Etsy.
Etsy's CEO was really interested in our experiences as individual Etsy sellers, so we started there. As we went around the circle introducing ourselves and sharing our stories about discovering and using Etsy, our small group revealed itself to be pretty diverse.This helped with the lively discussion that followed.
*One attendee, Jennifer of jericasjewelry, is new to Etsy.
*Suzy (KlaatuCollection) has been with Etsy since its beginnings.
*Sarah (RedRedOrange) relocated from San Fran.
*Allison (AllisonOstertag) is a strong member of Etsy and the Philly Team.
*Sarah ,our hostess, is head of all the Etsy teams world-wide as well as proprietress of girlscantell.
*And yours truly, Suzanne, is a one year etsian (insitudecorativearts) just returning to active membership.
One thing I love about Etsy is the ever-present evidence of thoughtful, supportive and persistent in-house development. New features and tools seem to be always in the works, which is a good thing. Yet with complexity and rapid growth come challenges. With these realities in mind, our group began sharing feedback about the pluses and minuses of the Etsy interface system as it impacts both sellers and shoppers.
Navigation and search capabilities are at the forefront of any talk about Etsy. We talked about tags, the linking search words entered by sellers. How can we make things even easier for shoppers searching for goods while increasing traffic and sales to appropriate shops? Search results from entering tags can number in the hundreds, with the most recently listed (or re-listed) goods given priority at the beginning of the long list. Is this helping people find the incredible items they covet or is it a daunting hindrance?
Our new member Jennifer was often the focus for questions about the Etsy system. She wasn't shy about pointing out the problems she had encountered as a first time seller setting up shop.
Maria made clear that making the site more user-friendly and fun for novices, whether they be buyers or sellers, is a priority for her.
The pros and cons of listing items was next on the agenda. It is a task that many busy crafters find overly time-consuming. The square format for thumbnails was bemoaned; Is there some way to have a tool where the seller could manipulate their photo within the square crop to avoid cutting off important features? How about sellers that have different colors, sizes, etc., available for one item? Is it possible to incorporate those choices into the listing process rather than requiring sellers to list each similar item separately? Or rely on customers using convos to indicate size, color and other variations, which buyers many times forget to enter? Customers would than have the option to fill out this info during a purchase transaction.
Support features for Etsy members were examined . Many described their difficulties in locating and using The Storque( the Etsy Blog), Community, Treasuries (did you know there was a Treasury West? I didn't), The Virtual Lab (Thursday event where you can log on and ask questions. I didn't understand this great feature either). Improvements seem to be on their way in this realm.
The benefits of teams, especially those based on locale like the Philly team, was discussed throughout. Locale teams, versus those defined by art form, used to be called Street teams but that moniker is kinda being fazed out. But the distinction still stands, and i think our members will agree that there are many benefits inherent in joining a real, rather than virtual, team.
Some of the team benefits delineated were:
*Pooling of skill sets to share for group projects.
*An ever-growing base to ask and answer questions about Etsy and crafting in general.
*Organizing of local craft events.
*Mentorship and support for new members.
*Resource sharing.
The possibilities seem endless.
So, our productive meeting sadly came to an end. We all stood up, drank a little more wine/mineral water while Maria was shown one of the teams' goodie bags from DesignPhiladelphia. Then, as we loosely gathered out front, Maria seemed to disappear. As we looked up Ninth street we could see her gamely hailing a cab, NYC style. We waved good-bye as she sped away to catch her train for Brooklyn. She truly is a busy CEO.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Pictures from August's Craftadelphia!
Thanks to everyone who participated in this month's show, we couldn't have done it without you: all of the artists and designers, the musicians, and our host, Mew Gallery. We really are building a community of handmakers. It's taking some time, but we're building self sustaining micro economies. Good job guys. And to the public: thanks for the support! This show was really well attended. (I guess it helps to have a press release!)
So here are a few pictures from the show. I'll be adding more as Heather Randall, this month's photographer sends them my way. (Thanks Heather!) If anyone else has photos, or would like to just write about the event, please feel free to contribute.
(Images: Angela Davidson's crocheted creatures, MWM Design's necklaces, masks made by Anna Cherniahivsky and Jon Vital, & greeting cards by Flying Fox Design.)
Monday, July 21, 2008
A Meeting in July (minutes)
First of all, I'd like to introduce myself in case there's anyone reading who didn't make it to the team meeting this month...
My name is Liza James and I am the owner and proprietor (read: designer) of Altered States Clothing.
This was my FIRST team meeting, and I am thrilled and excited to be a part of this growing community.
Here's me (the blond with no face):
On to business.
Here are a few things we'd like you all to follow up on (or take note of) when you have the time:
~ Please stop by Mew Gallery and pick up flyers to pass around the city! We need to promote!
~ send your upcoming news re shows, etc to artiseverywhere (please comment if this is an email address or an IM name? I'm a little confused).
~ Take a look at the "how to get involved" page (website? Please comment with link).
~ If you know any musicians (acoustic or mild) who'd be interested in playing during a Craftadelphia show, pass on their info! Our current possibilities are:
- Allison't fiance brian plays keyboard.
- Sondra's roommate steve sings and plays guitar.
- Liza is friends with young gene buffalo.
Each of these people will follow up with their respective friends and report back.
~ Beth is putting the group list-serve together, we need to draft and
send out a press release soon for Craftadelphia.
Learning events we'll be setting up (and the folks who will be leading):
Liza has started a google calendar called "Etsy Philly Team". Please search this calendar and use it! It will be invaluable as we gear up to schedule events.
Also, we will need to discuss dates for the following:
~ Class on crochet basics (Angela - 3d toys and creatures) this will be held at the Cheltenham Art Center in August or September.
~ Marketing event at Nicole Carey's place in S. Philly. Draw, paint, and print flyers to color, copy and distribute. Liza will lead.
~ Computer/Web tutorial at Mary's place in Fishtown, lead by Lynn and Liza
~ Meet and greet at Allison's place in W. Philly
~ Swap-a-rama at Beth's place in S. Philly
~ Paper making with Lynn at Cheltenham Art Center (other suggestions?) We need old blenders... keep an eye out when thrifting!
~ Sewing machine basics and hand-sewing with Amber and Liza (September) at Amber's?
Suzanne offered to host an event at her day camp in Bensalem. This
can be a retreat with skill swaps (we could do the paper making class
here, for example). They have pool, lake and plenty of outdoor space. - we were thinking about holding this event sometime on labor day weekend. How does August 31st sound?
We'd still like to learn:
~ knitting basics
~ gocco printing
~ screen printing
Selling events we can participate in:
~ DesignPhiladelphia suggested by Suzanne. Ruth will follow up w/ Beth Van Why.
~ Allison's (bijoux by) neighborhood holds a porch sale in the fall (Powelton Village). It's $20 to participate. She'll tell us more about it when she finds out.
~ Amber mentioned an event/ art sale/ craft sale that tours around
from bar to bar: franks, 700 club, etc. Amber, can you find a link for this, or more info?
~ Open Studio tours: registration may have passed but keep it on the radar - we can pick one member and host a group event at their studio or house. The fee is $80 and they do a nice job promoting this event.
Places to research for sales events:
~ Eastern State Penitentiary
~ Studio 34 across from clark park, near the green line cafe.
~ Jamaican Jerk Hut has a nice yard
~ Zot (society hill) has a FABULOUS space... Liza will look into this.
Suggestions for Promoting US, and YOU!
~ Check out a.viary, a user-friendly imaging software currently in beta.
~ Liza and Lynn will be designing a few "team images" (avatars, buttons, etc) to appeal to both male and female sellers and buyers.
~ update your shop info to include info on the team and Craftadelphia
~ CVS sells folding tables for about $20 if you need one for sales events.
~ credit card sales: pro pay costs $30/yr. Recommended by Grace. some people (not in our group) also use cell phones.
~ If you know anyone at a media organization send their email address to phillyetsy@gmail.com with "mailing list" in the subject line. If you know the person well, we could invite them to an event.
~ Do you have a blog or website? Facebook account? Myspace? Promote the team! Post buttons leading to our blog, post about our events, and leave a comment here with your links, so that Liza can include them whenever your name is mentioned!
A few more notes:
~ Sondra is friends w/ coordinator of the Boston Etsy team. We may
try to connect with her to brainstorm team management.
~ Some teams (chicago, brooklyn) add a "teams" image when posting new items on etsy,
Let's try to do this too. Watch for avatars and buttons from Lynn and Liza in the days to come.
~ Liza's going to take a look at our website and make recommendations.
~ Bring swap materials to the monthly meetings (3rd
Friday of each month) to share.
*WHEW*
I think that's everything... please, please comment... your input as members of the Philly Etsy team is invaluable!
Hugs and sauerkraut,
-Liza
My name is Liza James and I am the owner and proprietor (read: designer) of Altered States Clothing.
This was my FIRST team meeting, and I am thrilled and excited to be a part of this growing community.
Here's me (the blond with no face):
On to business.
Here are a few things we'd like you all to follow up on (or take note of) when you have the time:
~ Please stop by Mew Gallery and pick up flyers to pass around the city! We need to promote!
~ send your upcoming news re shows, etc to artiseverywhere (please comment if this is an email address or an IM name? I'm a little confused).
~ Take a look at the "how to get involved" page (website? Please comment with link).
~ If you know any musicians (acoustic or mild) who'd be interested in playing during a Craftadelphia show, pass on their info! Our current possibilities are:
- Allison't fiance brian plays keyboard.
- Sondra's roommate steve sings and plays guitar.
- Liza is friends with young gene buffalo.
Each of these people will follow up with their respective friends and report back.
~ Beth is putting the group list-serve together, we need to draft and
send out a press release soon for Craftadelphia.
Learning events we'll be setting up (and the folks who will be leading):
Liza has started a google calendar called "Etsy Philly Team". Please search this calendar and use it! It will be invaluable as we gear up to schedule events.
Also, we will need to discuss dates for the following:
~ Class on crochet basics (Angela - 3d toys and creatures) this will be held at the Cheltenham Art Center in August or September.
~ Marketing event at Nicole Carey's place in S. Philly. Draw, paint, and print flyers to color, copy and distribute. Liza will lead.
~ Computer/Web tutorial at Mary's place in Fishtown, lead by Lynn and Liza
~ Meet and greet at Allison's place in W. Philly
~ Swap-a-rama at Beth's place in S. Philly
~ Paper making with Lynn at Cheltenham Art Center (other suggestions?) We need old blenders... keep an eye out when thrifting!
~ Sewing machine basics and hand-sewing with Amber and Liza (September) at Amber's?
Suzanne offered to host an event at her day camp in Bensalem. This
can be a retreat with skill swaps (we could do the paper making class
here, for example). They have pool, lake and plenty of outdoor space. - we were thinking about holding this event sometime on labor day weekend. How does August 31st sound?
We'd still like to learn:
~ knitting basics
~ gocco printing
~ screen printing
Selling events we can participate in:
~ DesignPhiladelphia suggested by Suzanne. Ruth will follow up w/ Beth Van Why.
~ Allison's (bijoux by) neighborhood holds a porch sale in the fall (Powelton Village). It's $20 to participate. She'll tell us more about it when she finds out.
~ Amber mentioned an event/ art sale/ craft sale that tours around
from bar to bar: franks, 700 club, etc. Amber, can you find a link for this, or more info?
~ Open Studio tours: registration may have passed but keep it on the radar - we can pick one member and host a group event at their studio or house. The fee is $80 and they do a nice job promoting this event.
Places to research for sales events:
~ Eastern State Penitentiary
~ Studio 34 across from clark park, near the green line cafe.
~ Jamaican Jerk Hut has a nice yard
~ Zot (society hill) has a FABULOUS space... Liza will look into this.
Suggestions for Promoting US, and YOU!
~ Check out a.viary, a user-friendly imaging software currently in beta.
~ Liza and Lynn will be designing a few "team images" (avatars, buttons, etc) to appeal to both male and female sellers and buyers.
~ update your shop info to include info on the team and Craftadelphia
~ CVS sells folding tables for about $20 if you need one for sales events.
~ credit card sales: pro pay costs $30/yr. Recommended by Grace. some people (not in our group) also use cell phones.
~ If you know anyone at a media organization send their email address to phillyetsy@gmail.com with "mailing list" in the subject line. If you know the person well, we could invite them to an event.
~ Do you have a blog or website? Facebook account? Myspace? Promote the team! Post buttons leading to our blog, post about our events, and leave a comment here with your links, so that Liza can include them whenever your name is mentioned!
A few more notes:
~ Sondra is friends w/ coordinator of the Boston Etsy team. We may
try to connect with her to brainstorm team management.
~ Some teams (chicago, brooklyn) add a "teams" image when posting new items on etsy,
Let's try to do this too. Watch for avatars and buttons from Lynn and Liza in the days to come.
~ Liza's going to take a look at our website and make recommendations.
~ Bring swap materials to the monthly meetings (3rd
Friday of each month) to share.
*WHEW*
I think that's everything... please, please comment... your input as members of the Philly Etsy team is invaluable!
Hugs and sauerkraut,
-Liza
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Philly Etsy Team Treasury!
Hooray! Another Philly Etsy Team Treasury, full of wonderful things made right here in Philly.
Here's a link, which expires on Wed. May 7 at 10:15 am. And for posterity's sake, a screenshot:
Here's a link, which expires on Wed. May 7 at 10:15 am. And for posterity's sake, a screenshot:
Monday, April 28, 2008
Class: Starting Your Own Etsy Shop
~ Wednesday, 5/21 from 7:00 to 9:30 PM
Instructor: Sara Selepouchin of the Philadelphia Etsy team and Girls Can Tell
Location: Coral Street Arts House
By now, if you’re a crafts lover, then you’ve heard of Etsy. But what about turning your love into $$ by opening your own Etsy shop? In this class, students will learn the basics of setting up an Etsy shop and a general primer in selling and marketing online. Class topics will include: item naming and descriptions, getting involved in the Etsy community, promoting your Etsy shop, photographing for online selling, pricing your work for internet (retail) sales, creating a consistent brand and visual consistency for your shop, and much, much more!
Cost: 35.00 For more info and registration details, please email Megan.
Instructor: Sara Selepouchin of the Philadelphia Etsy team and Girls Can Tell
Location: Coral Street Arts House
By now, if you’re a crafts lover, then you’ve heard of Etsy. But what about turning your love into $$ by opening your own Etsy shop? In this class, students will learn the basics of setting up an Etsy shop and a general primer in selling and marketing online. Class topics will include: item naming and descriptions, getting involved in the Etsy community, promoting your Etsy shop, photographing for online selling, pricing your work for internet (retail) sales, creating a consistent brand and visual consistency for your shop, and much, much more!
Cost: 35.00 For more info and registration details, please email Megan.
Sara will be covering a pretty wide range of topics on how to really rock your shop, including: * photo tips * tagging tips * a bit on branding / consistency throughout your shop * how to write effective item descriptions * information on how to set shop policy * best ways to promote on and off of Etsy * using flickr to promote your shop * building a customer base * information on a blog as a promotional tool (if a blog is right for you...) * ideas and links / sites for great promotional items for your shop * any questions or topics you'd like to discuss
There are a few spaces left in the class, which is listed on the PSC site: http://www.phillysewing.org/classes.shtml
In case the email link there doesn't work, the contact through the Philly Sewing Collective is Megan: needlethrea...@aol.com.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Urbancheek Interview
(Interview with Kara of UrbanCheek by Jen McCleary)
Tell us a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).
I am a 32 year old work-at-home mom, married with two small boys. We just moved to the Philadelphia area (Belmont Hills) last summer. I'm originally from Akron, Ohio but have spent the past 6 years in Louisiana, following my husband where his schooling and jobs take him. I should add that he (Scott) is the other half of Urban Cheek. Scott is an architect, and he teaches architecture at Temple University. He also runs a not-for-profit called the International Design Clinic which does humanitarian design-build projects around the world. In my former life (pre-Mom), I was a special education teacher for 8 years. I enjoyed teaching, but my favorite part of the job was the creative part (making materials for lessons), and I've always been an avid crafter.
Apart from creating things, what do you do?
I love to cook, but cooking for two little picky eaters has added an element of difficulty to putting dinner on the table. My cooking over the last few years has morphed from an eclectic mix of adventurous ethnic dishes to hidden vegetables in something that looks like toddler food. I guess that's still creative in nature! I also love to read, and often have about 5 books going at once (which drives me crazy, but somehow it still happens). I do finish them all. Usually. I wish I could write a long list of interesting hobbies here, but the truth is that being a full-time Mommy takes up most of the minutes in my day. I'm fortunate that they still take naps, which is when I get crafty.
What first made you want to become an artist?
I struggle with this question, because I'm not sure I consider myself an artist. I have always been a crafter, and have loved making things since I was small. I was about five when my mom first taught me to cross-stitch and sew, and I've loved giving handmade gifts ever since. Art class was another story. I didn't have outstanding drawing or painting ability, so art teachers didn't spend much time encouraging my skills (I have vivid memories of one art teacher in particular who was very DIScouraging). Perhaps if we had more of a variety of mediums in my school's art program (fabric/sewing especially), I would have experienced more success. Despite that, art was still one of my favorite classes! And I had plenty of confidence in my artistic ventures outside of school, making and selling jewelry to classmates, sewing things for family and friends.
Please describe your creative process (how, when, materials, etc).
It's a two-person process. Scott and I brainstorm ideas together and sketch them out. He polishes them up (it is he who has the natural drawing ability) and puts them into Illustrator. Once we have a final design, I cut the stencils by hand and bleach the shirts. It has been fun to see how each of our strengths are utilized to create something we both love. And it has been a treat to collaborate on something that isn't related directly to our house or kids -- although our kids are our inspiration!
What handmade possession do you most cherish?
My husband designed and built a hope chest for me when we got married. He was quite the romantic back then, and its design is chock-full of symbolism and sap. I adore it. Ironically, it's still being stored at my parents' house.
Name your top five books, movies, songs/musical groups, and web sites
(besides Etsy).
Books: The Kite Runner, What is the What, Blue Like Jazz, The Hundred Secret Senses, The Bible
Movies: The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Amelie, Almost Famous, Love Actually, Oh Brother Where Art Thou (quite an eclectic mix, I guess)
Music: Also an eclectic mix. . .I love Counting Crows, Cowboy Junkies, Billy Bragg, and whatever is on an indie station at any given time.
Websites: Craftster.org is fun, and I spend way too much time on Facebook and MySpace, but I've moved so often that those are the best ways to keep in touch with my friends!
What do you like most about selling on Etsy?
I have seen friends struggle to succeed with their own website, and that is what kept me from taking the leap and trying to sell items online. Etsy is such an opportunity, because it brings traffic to my shop that wouldn't otherwise be there. It is also a great place to connect with other artists/crafters and feel supported. I also appreciate the heart behind Etsy. There is a real movement away from the Stuff Mart mentality, back to supporting independent artists and craftsmen. I'm proud to be a small part of that.
How do you promote your work? Do you show/sell your work anyplace other than Etsy?
I'm on TrunkT and various social networking sites online. I carry business cards with me and give them to anyone who seems remotely interested in what I do! I sell my tees on consignment at Vix Emporium in West Philly, and also at Mew Gallery in South Philly. I was recently a vendor at Baby Loves Disco (also in Philly, it's a monthly event). In addition, I've had wholesale orders from boutiques in a variety of states. Still, most of my orders come from family and friends!
In ten years I'd like to be...
"out of the red" in this business venture! I hope by then that Urban Cheek will be a second income for our family. I've been so blessed to work from home right now and give my boys the attention they need. I'd like for it to continue!
VISIT URBANCHEEK ON ETSY!
Tell us a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff).
I am a 32 year old work-at-home mom, married with two small boys. We just moved to the Philadelphia area (Belmont Hills) last summer. I'm originally from Akron, Ohio but have spent the past 6 years in Louisiana, following my husband where his schooling and jobs take him. I should add that he (Scott) is the other half of Urban Cheek. Scott is an architect, and he teaches architecture at Temple University. He also runs a not-for-profit called the International Design Clinic which does humanitarian design-build projects around the world. In my former life (pre-Mom), I was a special education teacher for 8 years. I enjoyed teaching, but my favorite part of the job was the creative part (making materials for lessons), and I've always been an avid crafter.
Apart from creating things, what do you do?
I love to cook, but cooking for two little picky eaters has added an element of difficulty to putting dinner on the table. My cooking over the last few years has morphed from an eclectic mix of adventurous ethnic dishes to hidden vegetables in something that looks like toddler food. I guess that's still creative in nature! I also love to read, and often have about 5 books going at once (which drives me crazy, but somehow it still happens). I do finish them all. Usually. I wish I could write a long list of interesting hobbies here, but the truth is that being a full-time Mommy takes up most of the minutes in my day. I'm fortunate that they still take naps, which is when I get crafty.
What first made you want to become an artist?
I struggle with this question, because I'm not sure I consider myself an artist. I have always been a crafter, and have loved making things since I was small. I was about five when my mom first taught me to cross-stitch and sew, and I've loved giving handmade gifts ever since. Art class was another story. I didn't have outstanding drawing or painting ability, so art teachers didn't spend much time encouraging my skills (I have vivid memories of one art teacher in particular who was very DIScouraging). Perhaps if we had more of a variety of mediums in my school's art program (fabric/sewing especially), I would have experienced more success. Despite that, art was still one of my favorite classes! And I had plenty of confidence in my artistic ventures outside of school, making and selling jewelry to classmates, sewing things for family and friends.
Please describe your creative process (how, when, materials, etc).
It's a two-person process. Scott and I brainstorm ideas together and sketch them out. He polishes them up (it is he who has the natural drawing ability) and puts them into Illustrator. Once we have a final design, I cut the stencils by hand and bleach the shirts. It has been fun to see how each of our strengths are utilized to create something we both love. And it has been a treat to collaborate on something that isn't related directly to our house or kids -- although our kids are our inspiration!
What handmade possession do you most cherish?
My husband designed and built a hope chest for me when we got married. He was quite the romantic back then, and its design is chock-full of symbolism and sap. I adore it. Ironically, it's still being stored at my parents' house.
Name your top five books, movies, songs/musical groups, and web sites
(besides Etsy).
Books: The Kite Runner, What is the What, Blue Like Jazz, The Hundred Secret Senses, The Bible
Movies: The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Amelie, Almost Famous, Love Actually, Oh Brother Where Art Thou (quite an eclectic mix, I guess)
Music: Also an eclectic mix. . .I love Counting Crows, Cowboy Junkies, Billy Bragg, and whatever is on an indie station at any given time.
Websites: Craftster.org is fun, and I spend way too much time on Facebook and MySpace, but I've moved so often that those are the best ways to keep in touch with my friends!
What do you like most about selling on Etsy?
I have seen friends struggle to succeed with their own website, and that is what kept me from taking the leap and trying to sell items online. Etsy is such an opportunity, because it brings traffic to my shop that wouldn't otherwise be there. It is also a great place to connect with other artists/crafters and feel supported. I also appreciate the heart behind Etsy. There is a real movement away from the Stuff Mart mentality, back to supporting independent artists and craftsmen. I'm proud to be a small part of that.
How do you promote your work? Do you show/sell your work anyplace other than Etsy?
I'm on TrunkT and various social networking sites online. I carry business cards with me and give them to anyone who seems remotely interested in what I do! I sell my tees on consignment at Vix Emporium in West Philly, and also at Mew Gallery in South Philly. I was recently a vendor at Baby Loves Disco (also in Philly, it's a monthly event). In addition, I've had wholesale orders from boutiques in a variety of states. Still, most of my orders come from family and friends!
In ten years I'd like to be...
"out of the red" in this business venture! I hope by then that Urban Cheek will be a second income for our family. I've been so blessed to work from home right now and give my boys the attention they need. I'd like for it to continue!
VISIT URBANCHEEK ON ETSY!
Thursday, April 3, 2008
RedRedOrange Interview (Sarah Greiner)
[Interview conducted by Mary Volk.]
Tell me a little about yourself.
I am from Minnesota, and have lived in Washington, D.C., Barcelona, San Francisco and now Philadelphia. I am a packaging designer for a firm in San Francisco, and work with clients like Ocean Spray, Dentyne, Lipton and Pepsi. I am engaged to a fabulously supportive man, Jon, who is in medical school. We have two cats, Papi Chulo and Hamachi, who provide me with endless comedy and distraction. I am really into cooking, seeing puppies on walks, and dreaming of the beach.
When did you become interested in art?
Growing up, my dad was really into doing projects with me, he sewed my halloween costumes and we built things together. I think he really exposed me to using my hands to create. Before college, I hadn’t really ever taken a fine art class before except for the required credits in middle school (I can’t draw to save my life), but I was always into crafts; making necklaces, mosaics, latch hook rugs, making candles. Then during college, I spent my junior year in Barcelona, Spain and it hit me like a ton of bricks. I needed art in my life!
How did you discover your talent for art, design, and screen printing?
I think design for me is 20% talent and 80% really hard work. There are some people who just pick up a pencil and draw something fabulous, but for me, it is more of a challenge but that is what makes it fun. I am not an artsy-type who just goes with the flow and whatever happens, happens. I plan and measure and plan more and calculate and measure again. That is what I like about graphic design, it is a blend of science and art, cerebral and creative. Screen printing plays off of that same idea for me, I use the computer to scale designs and predetermine which colors I want to use, but then I get to get dirty and use my hands to create the finished product.
What things, people, and places have influenced your art?
Spain has been the biggest influence on me thus far. The food, the wine, the art, the people, the practicality of everything is really inspirational to me. Travel in general is always good, even if it is just for a morning walk around the neighborhood to see, smell and hear something new. As far as artists go, Rex Ray is amazing, his use of color and texture makes me melt. I love Nate Williams, he does the most quirky, fun typography and illustration. Antoni Gaudí, a catalán architect famous for his modernist buildings in Barcelona, took some serious risks, and I love him for that. Also Frank Lloyd Wright, the way that he built around the land and the path of the sun, he really began the green movement!
How did you find out about etsy?
I was at a farmers' market in Boston last year and met a woman who sold wooden bowls that she carved from downed trees on her property. I got her business card, and a link to her Etsy website!
What do you think about etsy and the handmade movement?
I think it is great for both creators and consumers. People like me who could never afford to start their own store now have an outlet for their crafts.
Why did you decide to start selling your art?
I just like seeing it up there next to such amazing products. It feels good to have this sort of record of what I do, and if it sells or if someone else likes it, even better!
What are your favorite materials and why?
Paper and fabric are what I really like to use. I must admit that I am still trying to narrow down what my shop will sell. Every day I see something else that I want to try, so it is really difficult to sort of hone in on what I really like to make. Stay tuned!
When did your first get involved in screen printing?
I took a class in college and loved it, but I really hadn’t planned for how quickly I had to move, and some of my creations ended up less than perfect. When I moved to Philadelphia this past summer, I took a continuing education class at the University of the Arts to try to meet new people and to create my "Two Fish" Card that I had designed. It was awesome, and my teacher, Marisha Simmons, was so supportive. She taught us how to create our own at-home studio which I am in the process of finishing right now.
How do you feel your day job as a package designer influences or affects your art?
It is interesting, I love the process of creating something and then going to the grocery store and seeing it on the shelf! I always feel like during the day I design things that are eye catching, and scream out to the consumer, and then at night I like to make quiet things that speak softly.
Where do your ideas come from? Can you describe your creative process (how, when, materials, etc.)?
Just being out in nature and building off of other things I see. I like to sketch and also use resource material from books and the web to create. Tracing paper is a must, and a big fat eraser.
What are your favorite hobbies and activities besides crafting?
Rock climbing with my boyfriend, hiking, going to the gym, cooking, playing with my cats and refurbishing old furniture.
What challenges have you found in your work?
Remembering to create what I like instead of making things that I think other people will like. I have to trust in the fact that some people will like it, and others won’t and that is okay! Practicing drawing, I try to sketch everyday, but it is hard for me, especially people and animals.
What are your goals in having an Etsy shop?
Just to try to connect with people who will enjoy my products. I think there are so many amazing artists, to have even one person buy something you made is something to be proud of.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out on Etsy, or thinking about trying to sell their art?
Go for it! It is so easy, and it is a great way to learn the basics of running a business.
Sarah's Website: RedRedOrange.esty.com
Tell me a little about yourself.I am from Minnesota, and have lived in Washington, D.C., Barcelona, San Francisco and now Philadelphia. I am a packaging designer for a firm in San Francisco, and work with clients like Ocean Spray, Dentyne, Lipton and Pepsi. I am engaged to a fabulously supportive man, Jon, who is in medical school. We have two cats, Papi Chulo and Hamachi, who provide me with endless comedy and distraction. I am really into cooking, seeing puppies on walks, and dreaming of the beach.
When did you become interested in art?
Growing up, my dad was really into doing projects with me, he sewed my halloween costumes and we built things together. I think he really exposed me to using my hands to create. Before college, I hadn’t really ever taken a fine art class before except for the required credits in middle school (I can’t draw to save my life), but I was always into crafts; making necklaces, mosaics, latch hook rugs, making candles. Then during college, I spent my junior year in Barcelona, Spain and it hit me like a ton of bricks. I needed art in my life!
How did you discover your talent for art, design, and screen printing?
I think design for me is 20% talent and 80% really hard work. There are some people who just pick up a pencil and draw something fabulous, but for me, it is more of a challenge but that is what makes it fun. I am not an artsy-type who just goes with the flow and whatever happens, happens. I plan and measure and plan more and calculate and measure again. That is what I like about graphic design, it is a blend of science and art, cerebral and creative. Screen printing plays off of that same idea for me, I use the computer to scale designs and predetermine which colors I want to use, but then I get to get dirty and use my hands to create the finished product.
What things, people, and places have influenced your art?
Spain has been the biggest influence on me thus far. The food, the wine, the art, the people, the practicality of everything is really inspirational to me. Travel in general is always good, even if it is just for a morning walk around the neighborhood to see, smell and hear something new. As far as artists go, Rex Ray is amazing, his use of color and texture makes me melt. I love Nate Williams, he does the most quirky, fun typography and illustration. Antoni Gaudí, a catalán architect famous for his modernist buildings in Barcelona, took some serious risks, and I love him for that. Also Frank Lloyd Wright, the way that he built around the land and the path of the sun, he really began the green movement!
How did you find out about etsy?
I was at a farmers' market in Boston last year and met a woman who sold wooden bowls that she carved from downed trees on her property. I got her business card, and a link to her Etsy website!
What do you think about etsy and the handmade movement?
I think it is great for both creators and consumers. People like me who could never afford to start their own store now have an outlet for their crafts.
Why did you decide to start selling your art?
I just like seeing it up there next to such amazing products. It feels good to have this sort of record of what I do, and if it sells or if someone else likes it, even better!
What are your favorite materials and why?
Paper and fabric are what I really like to use. I must admit that I am still trying to narrow down what my shop will sell. Every day I see something else that I want to try, so it is really difficult to sort of hone in on what I really like to make. Stay tuned!
When did your first get involved in screen printing?
I took a class in college and loved it, but I really hadn’t planned for how quickly I had to move, and some of my creations ended up less than perfect. When I moved to Philadelphia this past summer, I took a continuing education class at the University of the Arts to try to meet new people and to create my "Two Fish" Card that I had designed. It was awesome, and my teacher, Marisha Simmons, was so supportive. She taught us how to create our own at-home studio which I am in the process of finishing right now.
How do you feel your day job as a package designer influences or affects your art?
It is interesting, I love the process of creating something and then going to the grocery store and seeing it on the shelf! I always feel like during the day I design things that are eye catching, and scream out to the consumer, and then at night I like to make quiet things that speak softly.
Where do your ideas come from? Can you describe your creative process (how, when, materials, etc.)?
Just being out in nature and building off of other things I see. I like to sketch and also use resource material from books and the web to create. Tracing paper is a must, and a big fat eraser.
What are your favorite hobbies and activities besides crafting?
Rock climbing with my boyfriend, hiking, going to the gym, cooking, playing with my cats and refurbishing old furniture.
What challenges have you found in your work?
Remembering to create what I like instead of making things that I think other people will like. I have to trust in the fact that some people will like it, and others won’t and that is okay! Practicing drawing, I try to sketch everyday, but it is hard for me, especially people and animals.
What are your goals in having an Etsy shop?
Just to try to connect with people who will enjoy my products. I think there are so many amazing artists, to have even one person buy something you made is something to be proud of.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out on Etsy, or thinking about trying to sell their art?
Go for it! It is so easy, and it is a great way to learn the basics of running a business.
Sarah's Website: RedRedOrange.esty.com
Monday, November 26, 2007
Raising the Bar of Awareness
Did you do your holiday shopping yet? Were you planning on buying your special someone the same gift that everybody else gets at Target or would you rather buy something unique, something that tells a story about the artist from the extra thoughtful touches like what materials were used, instructions on how to care for the item, or what region it was made from?
Please come and shop at our First Fridays Trunk Show at Mew Gallery (www.mewgallery.org) which starts at 6:30p.m. on Friday, December 7, 2007 for some terrific gift ideas made from our very talented, local artists.
You can be confident about buying handmade!
-- Grace
Please come and shop at our First Fridays Trunk Show at Mew Gallery (www.mewgallery.org) which starts at 6:30p.m. on Friday, December 7, 2007 for some terrific gift ideas made from our very talented, local artists.
You can be confident about buying handmade!
-- Grace
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