Etsy Interview with TickleBean

I've always been creative since I can remember. My grandma taught me to knit when I was young. I always loved making friendship bracelets and hemp necklaces. I get it from my mom for sure. She is a great seamstress. She always made all of our Halloween costumes growing up. I love learning new things and I have all of the books to prove it. I love being able to do little projects with my son and to let him feel the joy of making things himself. Creating is my life and it is something I will never tire of.

How and when did you start making jewelry and your other items?

Like I said before, I dabbled in jewelry when I was younger making friendship bracelets and hemp necklaces. My husband and I decided when I was pregnant that I would stay home with our child. After our son was born I wanted to do something to contribute to the household finances. I always liked making jewelry so I picked up a few beads from the local craft store and went to work. I started out doing beadwork. Ticklebean started when I found etsy. I tried selling at another venue first, but it didn't go so well. I am so glad I found etsy! My skills have definitely gotten better and this is where I found my love of metal. I taught myself how to solder from a book. I found my passion in doing metalwork.

When and how did you originally find Etsy?

I found etsy in a forum for craft shows. It was a website that helps you find craft shows around your area. Etsy was fairly new and someone was asking if other people sold on etsy and what they thought about it. I thought etsy sounded interesting so I went and looked at the website and signed up for a shop the same day.

What is unique about Etsy and what about the website do you like the most in regards to your shop?

I think etsy is unique because it revolves around handmade items, which is very appealing to me. I love that it is an artistic venue for creative people to show off their work, help each other, and maybe make a little extra money on the side.

What inspires you the most in regards to your creations?

Everything around me inspires me. I love nature and bright colors the most.

What is your favorite piece you've created and why?

One of my favorite pieces right now is one that I don't have for sale yet. It is the first free form piece I have been able to make in a long time. I'm usually working on orders so much that it is hard to find time to make new pieces. It will be at my Ticklebean shop soon!

What do you want to accomplish with your online shop?

I am pretty happy with where I am at right now. My shop is totally self sufficient. I am able to help with things we need around the house and have a bit of play money.

Do you have any new creations in the works? If so, what can shoppers expect to see from you soon?

I have a few new rings and necklaces that are just sitting there until I find the time to photograph them and list them on Ticklebean. I want to have more enameled pieces and possibly some headbands in the future.

Where can readers find out about more information regarding your jewelry and other creations and possible special offers (including additional websites, blogs, facebook, etc)?

I don't have a blog or anything. I am featured in many blogs though. All you have to do is google ticklebean. I usually have a couple sales a year. Come by my Ticklebean Etsy shop often to see new items and any sales that may be going on. Thank you for taking the time to read a liittle about me!