This month I talked to Jodi of Tubby Tabby’s Jewelbox, who sells beautiful and unique upcycled jewelry.
Jodi is another crafter who started early and has been making things since childhood. Jodi is very creative and likes to sew, crochet and paint as well as other creative pursuits! Jodi got into selling her designs, “kind of on a whim – I was curious to see if anyone had any interest in my creations and once I had my first sale, I was hooked.”
“It always thrills and amazes me that someone out there actually likes something I have created and will be wearing it,” explains Jodi, and I am sure that many designer-makers will understand. The excitement of knowing that people love your items enough to pay for them is addictive! Conversely, Jodi feels disheartened when she is particularly excited about a product but it does not get much attention – a common downside of selling handmade crafts.
Jodi supplements her crafting income with freelance graphic design work, and is lucky to have a separate office spac at home from where she runs both businesses. “[Crafting] is taking over very rapidly,” explains Jodi. “I still need to continue my freelance graphic design work to supplement my income, as online sales are sporadic and unpredictable.”
Like many designer-makers, Jodi takes inspiration from the world around her. “I can’t say I am inspired by a particular artist or art form. My jewelry reflects my moods most times and life inspires my comedy. If there is one person that influences or inspires me I would have to say my hubby, he keeps me laughing and feeling safe.” She strives to ensure that her products are unique, in what is becoming an ever more saturated market. “Let’s face it there are a lot of shops out there selling domino pendants and scrabble tiles, I make mine unique by offering unique graphics, colors and include little extras where I can. I think I have a tendency to catch the buyer with my personality on Twitter and my blog, it makes them curious enough to then check out my shop.”
In addition to promoting via [Twitter]. Jodi uses her personal Facebook to draw attention to her creations and relies on word of mouth, handing out business cards whenever she can. ” I have tried consignment, craft shows, flea markets… none of those venues have been that successful for me. I keep trying the different shows in the hopes one will click, but not so far. I really sell best online for some reason.”
A Pennsylvania native, Jodi values the mutual support that local crafters provide. “I really see the handmade movement in PA growing, more and more I am finding when I mention my handmade business to friends they have a genuine interest in what I’m doing.
“Since I started selling my crafts and talking about it to others, I’m realizing how many talented people there are out there. Most everyone has created something in their lifetime, either as a child or adult. People are starting to tap into that talent as a way of providing additional income or as a creative outlet. The more involved I become with the handmade movement the more I realize the support that is available out there. Pennsylvania has a wonderful supportive community, as I am discovering since joining Team HiP.”
For more information on Jodi’s designs, please check out her Etsy shop.
Ellie is a UK-based designer of handknit and crocheted accessories. In her rare time away from the needles and hooks, she can be found scouring Etsy and Folksy for cute and quirky handmade items, and chatting to indie sellers via Twitter, Facebook and blogs. Ellie sells her creations via Etsy.
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