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Interview with Designer Stacy Altiery

In the Spotlight, Interviews Comments Off

Jan 152011

Today’s guest is Ms. Stacy Altiery, a very talented designer who makes unique and stylish, hand crafted stationery, note cards, invitations and other paper goodies. She kindly agreed to answer a few questions and share her experience.

1. When did you start Inkspot Workshop and why? Whose idea was it?

I started InkSpot Workshop in April of 2008 after my friend introduced me to Etsy.com Originally I was making envelopes out of pretty scrapbook papers and designing simple initial stationery to match but soon I became overwhelmed with orders and hand making envelopes didn’t seem like such a great business idea anymore. Instead I compromised and I now make my own hand lined envelopes with patters I design and make. I also continue to improve my graphic design skills.

photo courtesy of Stacy with InkSpot Workshop

2. Tell us about the mind and driving force behind Inkspot Workshop.

I have always been an extremely driven and creative individual who found herself in the field of professional sales over the past 15 years. I’ve sold everything from makeup, copiers food to my final sales position which was selling medical devices for a large company over the past 9 years. I would make “pretty” product flyers as a creative outlet, but it still was a bit limiting.

3. What kind of products or services do you offer?

I coach other women looking to get started in their own businesses or already established, figured I could help shed some light on what I’ve learned over the close to 3 years. I also do custom design work for business owners, custom design work for people looking to host a special party or event, plus just about all of my items are personalized. I offer stationery, invitations and all matching paper accessories, baby shower activities, magnets even jewelry.

photo courtesy of Stacy with InkSpot Workshop

4. What makes Inkspot Workshop different?

I’m a small, hand crafted business offering artisan paper goodies in small batches. You are dealing directly with me and not a large customer service department. People really like the one-on-one approach especially since personalized items or custom designed items require quite a bit of communication. I also think what makes InkSpot Workshop different is the fact I offer personalized items in small quantities. You can get a set of 12 personalized note cards, whereas most specialty retailers have the minimum quantity for personalization as 50. Plus InkSpot Workshop designs are colorful and modern and that has become our signature style.

5. If you were to describe Inkspot Workshop in 3 words, what words would you choose?

bright, modern, fun

6. Please tell us about one of your “aha” moments.

This is actually funny.. for the longest time I would trace 2 envelope liners onto a single sheet of paper and cut. It took two years to realize I could simply trace the liners on one sheet of paper and hold 2 more together and cut all at once. Now instead of cutting 2 at a time, I’m cutting 6 at a time! It has cut down my production time significantly.

7. If you were to start all over again, what would you do differently?

I would have quit my day job sooner!! Instead I was laid off just a few months ago and had a party!

8. What do you think helped your business bloom?

photo courtesy of Stacy with InkSpot Workshop

All of the contacts I have made in the blogging and social media world. I have gotten lots of free press. Also my attention to detail and superb customer service keeps my customers coming back and telling all their friends:) Thank heaven for that.

9. How do you advertise your business?

I do promotions with other blogs where I know it’s a good fit. I’m a big fan of using Facebook and Twitter, plus I have my own blog (see all links below) I have an e-newsletter to keep in constant contact with my subscribers, plus I purchase ad space on certain blogs where I think I might gain some new eyes.

10. What advice would you give to a crafter who has just started?

Stay true to your original idea and just go for it! Don’t over think the whole business process too much. Also try not to look at what “everyone else is doing” too much or you will eventually go crazy and end up with copycat designs. That’s just my 2 cents worth.

Here are a few places where you can find Stacy:

Site: www.inkspotworkshop.com
Blog: www.blog.inkspotworkshop.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/inkspotworkshop
Facebook: www.facebook.com/InkSpotWorkshop
Dog Lover? www.firehydrantpress.etsy.com this is my “sister site” where I donate a portion of all sales to Last Chance For Animals

6 Tips for Beginners Running a Home Crafts Business

Running your Craft Business Comments Off

Oct 252010

When you’re ready to make a little extra money at home or transform a hobby into a full-fledged crafts business, there are a handful of ways to prepare for this new adventure. Are you ready for the groundwork and organization it takes to run a crafts business at home? Before you get started, there are a few things that all beginners should know before they dedicate their time, energy and resources to the competitive world of crafting.

1. Determine Money-Making Potential

For the majority of beginners, the point of running a crafts business at home is to turn a profit. Whether you’re a wizard at crocheting baby blankets or making organic lotions for sensitive skin, you have to ask yourself if your craft is something that customers need. Your crafts business will be a success if you provide goods that serve a purpose, which translates into sales. Will there be a demand for what you have to offer?

2. Do your Homework

Before establishing a home-based crafts business, one of the first things to do is research the basic market. After establishing the demand for your crafts, pinpoint the type of people who will most likely purchase your goods. This will also come in handy when making advertising decisions. Identify the places where your potential customers will live – think of local, regional, national and global interests. Research the average price of similar products.

3. Are You Unique?

Since there are thousands of crafts businesses competing for the attention of consumers, it is important to stand out from the rest. To succeed in the industry, you must offer something unique and in many cases – one-of-a-kind crafts. For example, if you make beaded necklaces – what sets your creations apart from the thousands of other jewelry makers? Do you use a special technique, exotic stone, or offer an intricate pattern? Recognize your competition and analyze what makes their business work. This doesn’t mean the same formula will work for you, but you can get an idea on how to become a better business within your industry.

4. Test Out the Demand

It’s hard for many crafters to take a step back from their creations and assess the true demand for their product. When you’re looking for constructive criticism, call upon friends and family to lend a hand. Seek out five to ten of the most honest loved ones who will give you the best opinions. Also, pick people who most likely shop for the kinds of products that you offer. For instance, if you sew baby outfits, ask new parents for their opinions. Interview each loved one on an individual basis. Ask them what they like about your products, if any improvements are needed, if they have any concerns, and would they give your product as a gift.

5. Set a Competitive Price

Once you’ve assessed if there is demand for your product, you’re going to need a competitive price. One of the easiest ways to create a price range is to follow the lead of competitors. Take notes of an acceptable range for highest and lowest dollar amount. Keep in mind that your prices will fluctuate throughout the lifetime of your crafts business.

6. Sell Beyond the Internet

The Internet is not the only place to sell your crafts when starting a small business at home. Many crafters find success in setting up a booth at a local craft fair, farmer’s market, and other venues. Approach local shops that sell gifts, art and other trinkets. Ask the store manager if they’d be willing to carry one of your lines.

How to Save Money on Crafts Business Supplies

Running your Craft Business 1 Response »

Oct 082010

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When purchasing supplies for your crafts business, you have two choices – immediately save money with less expensive tools or splurge on quality. For the tools that are most important for your line of crafting, it is suggested to purchase the best. In short, they will save you money because they will last longer. Other money-saving tips for crafts business supplies include:

Buy Wholesale and Bulk

If you anticipate needing a lot of one supply, look into purchasing wholesale or in bulk whenever possible. Shop around for suppliers who give discounts to crafters who buy in large quantities. For the most part, buyers usually take advantage of a certain percentage of savings that increases when their volume increases. Some suppliers also waive shipping fees for large orders.

Make Your Own

Some crafts businesses have learned that it pays to make their own supplies rather than invest in commercial options. For example, if you are in the handmade jewelry business, save money by making your own clasps, ear wires, head pins, and other findings. For beaders, instead of purchasing beads – consider making your own, which also adds to the uniqueness and originality of your craft business.

Do Not Waste

If you have to cut materials for your crafts, it is important to carefully measure after calculating appropriate amounts, lengths, and widths. Don’t work with your materials off of the top of your head. Make good use of a ruler or tape measure so that you don’t unnecessarily waste your supplies. Over the lifetime of your craft business, saving a little can go a long way in the future.

Visit Thrift Stores

Depending on the type of craft business you run, a thrift store is a goldmine for gathering materials and used goods that can save you money on supplies. This is also a perfect way for crafters who upcycle or recycle to find clothing, fabrics, and embellishments.

The Dollar Store

The Dollar Store allows you to save money on packaging and supplies for a crafts business. From a rainbow of ribbon colors and tissue paper to small boxes and bubble envelopes, the Dollar Store certainly helps small businesses cut costs. For some, materials and crafting supplies are also available for next-to-nothing prices.

Reuse Scraps

What can you do with an extra square of fabric, piece of wire, or a few lone beads? Reusing scraps and repurposing extra materials can make products you may have not intended on. That’s extra money in your product if your impromptu craft catches someone’s eye. Save scraps for later use – you never know when something will come in handy.

How to Protect the Name of Your Crafts Business

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Oct 012010

A business name is one of the most important pieces to your crafts business puzzle. It is how most consumers will identify your products, advertising, and brand. For offline and online crafts business owners, you should become familiar in how to protect your name. Following the proper procedures will not only shield you from business thievery, but can also save you time, money and legal complications that arise after you become rich and famous.

An Original Name

With thousands upon thousands of crafts businesses springing up each year, it becomes harder to find an original name that hasn’t been taken. Before you fall in love with a business name, you must check to see if another crafter is using it. A simple online search isn’t going to be enough to ensure full protection. Conduct a business name search with the Trademark Electronic Search System found on the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office website.

Learn the Difference Between Copyright and Trademark

When it comes to protecting intellectual property, it is a must to become familiar with ‘copyright’ and ‘trademark.’ Copyright generally protects “original works of authorship,” such as a book you’ve written on the crafting business. Trademark will protect your business name, titles, brand, and logos.

Trademark Registration

Technically, your crafts business is protected as soon as you start it, but if you want to utilize the strongest line of defense, trademark registration is a must. Registering your business establishes legal documentation that protects your business. This act will come in handy if you should ever need to take legal action.

Constant Internet Searches

Just because you have legally registered your business doesn’t mean people won’t try to capitalize off of your hard work. It is important to conduct online searches on a regular basis for your business name, slogan, and website copy. Browse relevant entries to identify copyright and trademark infringement.

Google Alerts

Another way to keep your eye out for infringement is to set up Google Alerts for blog posts, news, and other information regarding the name of your business. This will help keep an eye out for both the positive and negative online activity concerning your crafts business.

Online Business Directories

Registering your business name and website with online directories can help you solidify your presence and originality within the marketplace. Hundreds of directories allow business owners to submit website descriptions and links, which also increases your online visibility. Don’t forget to focus on online directories that are specific to the crafts industry.

Offline Advertising for Your Crafts Business

Running your Craft Business Comments Off

Sep 282010

Even if you’re running an online crafts business, you can still effectively promote your goods offline. Why is considering a variety of advertising methods important for your business? For some crafters, the bulk of their sales will come from local avenues. Depending on your budget, you may want to consider the following offline advertising options for your crafts business:

Business Cards

Whenever you strike up a conversation about your crafts, show your professionalism and leave a lasting impression with a business card. Today, it is very inexpensive to order business cards for offline advertising purposes. In popular venues, the small size of the cards also makes it easy to leave behind on bulletin boards and in other public places.

Newspaper Ad

People still read the newspaper and taking out a small print ad introducing your crafts business can capture the attention of potential consumers. The most beneficial listing is one printed in the Sunday newspaper when the majority of classified ads are also posted. For less expensive, printed advertising, submit an ad to the local Pennysaver and other smaller local publications offered for free at newsstands.

Craft Shows

Sell your goods and spread the word about your crafts business by mingling with other crafters. Interacting with consumers and displaying your talent is an effective method of offline advertising. Pass out business cards and collect the contact information of other crafters to learn more about your local market.

Flyers

Spring for a professionally designed flyer or print out your own basic flyers at home. Share the name of your business, logo, and contact information. Add a few pictures of your products and advertise any discounts or sales you may offer. Drum up interest by including a coupon or discount code on the flyer. Distribute flyers in local places, such as grocery stores and restaurants. Tack flyers up on bulletin boards at schools, supermarkets, and laundromats.

Postcards

If you’re interested in finding a local shop to carry your product line, create colorful postcards tat introduce your crafts business. Mail or hand out the cards when meeting shopkeepers face to face. Pass out seasonal postcards to consumers during the holidays – you never know when someone is looking for a unique gift to give.

5 Ways to Sell Your Crafts

Running your Craft Business Comments Off

Sep 282010

Every day, new crafts businesses are born. From handmade soap collections to hair bows for children, someone is making money selling a product that they create on their own. In order to make the most out of your talent and hard work, it’s important to explore the different ways you can sell your crafts. To get started, below are a handful of craft-selling suggestions:

1. The Internet

The Internet provides a convenience for shoppers who don’t like leaving the comforts of their own home to obtain products, crafts, and gifts. Online craft businesses also save money because they don’t have to worry about maintaining a costlier bricks-and-mortar shop. Selling your crafts on the Internet is a low-risk approach towards making money. An online crafts business is relatively easy to establish and offers a wide range of selling options, including Artfire, Etsy, and establishing “shopping carts” on personal websites.

2. At-Home Business

Depending on the type of business you plan on running, a simple home office or large basement can become an ideal place to sell your crafts. Some people have taken advantage of a walkout basement and have transformed the lower level of their home into a crafts business. In addition to making crafts, the large space is also perfect for storing equipment, organizing supplies, and greeting customers looking for custom pieces. Things to think about include the need for a permit or license, signage options, parking space, and the practicality of using your home space.

3. Home Parties

If you don’t want to commit to using you’re a large part of your house as a place to physically sell your crafts, consider hosting events at home. Similar to Tupperware parties, you can invite family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, and other interested faces you meet along to way. To alert potential consumers when you’re hosting the next party, an inexpensive method is to create an email list to send virtual invitations.

4. Craft Shows and Local Fairs

A large number of crafters are selling their creations at local fairs, festivals and other events about town. When selecting a venue to sell your crafts, keep in mind fees, advertising costs, and how many visitors you expect to come in contact with. Print up business cards to make the most out of your craft show encounters.

5. Family and Friends

One of the best ways to sell your crafts is to let your family and friends pass along your information. Word of mouth is a powerful method of advertising. For example, a jewelry maker should float a few eye-catching pieces to loved ones, as well as arm them with business cards. When someone asks where they got their fabulous necklace from, they can talk up your business and hand out your contact details.