Sunday, January 3, 2010

Sharing No. 1

My blogolution for 2010......to share.

And I don't mean in the "you can have some of my french fries" kind of share.

I resolve to share some work from artists and crafters (on and off Etsy) that have motivated me, inspired me, and all that good stuff. They shared with me, so, I shall return the favor, and share them with you.

First up.....

Littleput Books

(visit her Etsy shop here)

When I first joined Etsy in Feb 2008, Ryan (aka Littleput) was one of the top sellers on Etsy, with over 10000 sales. I came across her shop while reading the Etsy forums (extremely helpful as a new Etsy seller).

I clicked on her avatar, taking me to her shop, and immediately, I was intrigued. Not only by her impressive sales, but by everything in her shop. Her photos, her items, her materials, and her packaging.

(if you remember, I am a bit of a packaging fanatic. So, I have the most utter respect for those than can design clever packaging).

I studied her shop (little did she know), and used it as a model for my own. That, combined with the great advice she doled out in the forums, made me believe that I, too could be successful on Etsy.

I am not ashamed to admit, I put her on a bit of a pedestal.

So, imagine my excitement when I discovered that she had not only hearted MY shop, but some of my items. My new, "I'm not so sure if people will like these" items.

It was validating. And, motivating.

Almost 2 years later, I am nowhere near 10000 sales, but I do consider myself successful. I pushed forward with those items (the hooks, if you're wondering). And to this day, have sold well over 500 (on and off Etsy). I have an Etsy shop full of items I am proud of. An aesthetic I am proud of. And I'm thankful.

Thank you, Ryan.

Again, check out Ryan's Etsy shop. Lots of good goods (and VERY clever packaging)!

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