Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Soothing Blues



Click here to see the complete treasury from BySaraLynn

Friday, January 21, 2011

Sunday, January 9, 2011

Getting to Know Mom N Mia Quilts

Boutique Burp Cloth and Bib Gift Set by Mom N Mia Quilts

Maria from Mom N Mia Quilts is the woman behind the sewing machine. After the day job, time with her family, and rooting on the Spartans, Maria finds time to put into her business making high quality, affordable baby items, gifts, and more for modern moms and kids. She creates a wide variety of items for the kiddos in great fabrics. She also designs and makes custom quilts and bedding.

On her start - I've been sewing since I was young, and taught myself how to quilt. Many of the items you'll find for sale in the store were inspired by my own children or my many nieces and nephews. All of my items are handmade from the highest quality materials, and are made with care and love.

Her favorite anythings - Pretty fabric, reading and sunny days.

Around the world - I've only been selling on Etsy since March of 2008, but my products appear in over a dozen high-end boutiques across the US and around the world.  Currently at 15 high-end boutiques across the US, in Ireland, Switzerland, Canada, Australia and more!

Loving what she does -  I love creating quilts and great baby gifts, and I especially love being able to share my creations with others.

Thursday, January 6, 2011

Monday, January 3, 2011

Getting to Know 2 Crafty Chix

Elephants in Purple and Green Flannel Rag Edge Quilt

Janice is the powerhouse behind 2 Crafty Chix based out of Holland. In her shop you can find her specialty flannel rag edge quilts, but at her shows you'll find a wide range of items including crayon rolls, pacifier clips, chair covers, and bibs. Janice works extremely hard on her business and is happy to call it her full-time job. Janice was kind enough to answer a few questions, so let's hear from her!

On her start - My business started when I wanted to do shows with the person who was formerly my bestest friend. Some where along the way she decided she did not want to do shows together. I kept on doing shows with my mom. I kept the name since I had come up with it. People know my chicken logo and know my product. I have a nice following at craft shows around Michigan.

Some of her favorites - Casablanca, Zoolander, Survivor, House, NCIS, Castle, Green Eggs and Ham, Franny and Zooey, Janet Evanovich, Charlaine Harris, JD Salinger, Elizabeth George, Sue Grafton, U2, and lots of others

About herself -  I am somewhat crazy. I am a single lady - I love to have fun. My quilts and other stuff are my full time source of income. I love to do it. I am a hard worker. I like being my own boss and making my way in this world. I love being me - that is what I enjoy most.

Some of her advice - Don't under price your stuff. Your time and materials are worth something. Remember you are NOT A BIG BOX STORE you CANNOT compete with them nor should you want to. Treat your shop like the business it is. It is no longer a hobby when you are putting yourself out there. Read a book about the craft business - there are plenty of them on the market. Go into Barnes and Noble or look on Amazon. Educate yourself in the business aspects of well - running a business.