Terri is a wonderful, creative gal with a lovely blog and an Etsy shop called Patchwork Trails. A couple of her favorite designers are Anna Maria Horner and Jennifer Paganelli, and this is easy to see from taking a peek in her shop.
I asked Terri a few questions about herself and here is what she had to say:
What inspired you to open your shop? "I was inspired to open my own etsy shop because I really love to make things, and I wasn't seeing similar items out there. So I thought I had something unique to say with my patchwork goodies."
How do you juggle an online business with your other responsibilities? "I keep very busy with all the things I have going on in life! I quit my corporate job last summer to return to school to get a degree in design and illustration. I have three classes this semester, and I haven't had as much time to sew as I would like, so it's a constant struggle to manage my time. But I am learning a lot that I think I can apply to my shop.
I make a lot of lists to keep myself on track. I also have several sketchbooks to sketch out ideas.
Since I used to work as a paralegal, I like to think I am a very organized person. I have files set up for my sales and expenses. I keep one binder full of reference material related to my shop, and I keep another binder where I store my patterns and ideas I want to try."
What is your favorite part of having a craft business online? "My favorite part of having a craft business is getting custom orders. Just knowing someone likes my designs and trusts me enough to make a one-of-a-kind design for them is flattering, challenging and fun. I also love making connections with people from all over the world."
Today Terri is giving away one of her adorable make-up bags! All you need to do to enter the giveaway is to pop over to Terri's shop and take look at her wares. Then leave a comment here and tell me which of her products you like best. I will close comments on Tuesday and announce a winner on Wednesday.
You can also find Terri on Twitter and Flickr, and you can sign up for her newsletter here.
Thank you, Terri!