Featured Handmade Artist- andwabisabi
Hello!!! I know, I got off to a late start today, but don't worry-- this week's featured artist is definitely worth the wait! I am so happy to introduce you to Grace from Andwabisabi. Grace sells the cutest, fun and simple-to-make counted cross stitch patterns!
Seriously, how fun is that? These look easy enough that even I could make them. I'm so not a cross-stitch (or counted-cross stitch) person, but I'm so in love with these fun designs that I'm thinking about trying one...
Check out some of her other cool designs:
Hi Grace! Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
My name is Grace Kim and I'm the girl behind Andwabisabi Cross Stitch. I live in Southern California with my family and puppy, (my bundle of joy) Mochi! During the day, I work as a Graphic Designer and Product Developer in Wall Decor. Once I'm off the clock I love to cross-stitch, cook and bake. I do love to pick up a random craft during the weekend or spend hours upon hours at craft stores.
What is the first craft project you remember making?
I used to make paper dolls and cut out colorful little outfits and wigs for them. The possibilities were endless and I would churn out little outfits for them all day long!
What inspires you?
My inspiration comes from nature and anything I come across during the day. I am definitely drawn to textures and patterns and love to take snapshots of anything that interests me. Inspiration comes from a color that I've become enamored with, or a conversation I shared with my close friend, or even from the dinner menu. I carry around a little notebook where I jot down these ideas and sketches, which comes in very handy when I'm ready to start designing.
Can you please describe some of your creative process?
I refer to my handy little notebooks. I like to spend some time picking a topic that strikes my chord before I jump into the design aspect. Sometimes I will do a little research on the topic, other times I'll jump right in. I start out with a rough shape in mind and move around the pixels until I settle on the design. After the design is set, it's time to play with color! Often times, I will start out with a certain finish in mind, only to end up with something completely different- I love this process, because it is when I come out with the best designs.
What is your most prized handmade possession?
I love the hand-knit scarf my grandmother made me some 15 years ago. It's made out of really itchy pink yarn, but it makes me laugh every time I wrap myself in it.
If you could give one piece of advice to a new etsy seller, what would it be?
I would have to say, keep doing what you love. Perseverance is key, keep developing your craft, continuously learn, and soon you will discover your niche.
What are some of the ways you promote your work?
Word of mouth, I'm fortunate to have lovely customers who refer their friends and family to my shop. I also have a flickr and twitter account, as well as a FB page and blog. I spend a lot of time developing new items for the shop and try to upload new product every week.
Etsy
Flickr -
Twitter -
Facebook -
www.facebook.com/pages/Andwabisabi-Cross-Stitch/439023620472
Blog -
What are three websites you couldn’t live without?
Etsy.com, Craftcult.com, Pandora.com
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
I'd love to be happy and healthy, with some extra wrinkles, surrounded by family and crafty friends! I'd also love to own a little cross-stitch boutique and share the love of cross-stitch with a lot of people.
If you could have one super power, what would it be and why?
I'd love to fly, that way I'd be able to travel all over the world and have the experience of my life.
Thank you so much Grace!!! It was a pleasure to get to know a little bit more about the super creative force behind Andwabisabi. I urge everyone to take some time and check out her shop. There are so many wonderful cross stitch items to chose from (hey! Mother's Day is coming up!!)
http://www.etsy.com/shop/andwabisabi
If you would like to be considered for my weekly features, please send me an email or convo-- I'd love to hear from you!!!!
Hang in there! It's almost Friday!
-April
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