What is your name?
Kelly
Where are you located?
Meridian, Idaho
Tell us a little about yourself.
I am a proud work-at-home momma to my son Jonathan. My husband and I have been married for nearly four years. I worked as an elementary school teacher for seven years prior to the birth of our son. My husband is an elementary school counselor. We fill our free time with family trips outdoors.
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| Unisex Crib Shoes in Mineral Dot |
What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?
I actually have two Etsy shops. In my Engel Pottery shop, I specialize in handmade ceramics such as mugs, bowls and vases. In my Growing Up Wild shop, I have organic and original creations for baby such as hand appliqued clothing and handmade shoes.
How/why did you get started?
I have been creating for as long as I can remember. I was fortunate to have a mom who fed my creativity and allowed me to experiment in a number of media.
How long have you been sewing? What got you into sewing in the first place?
I was given a sewing machine for my high school graduation. My mom and grandma both felt it was a skill that everyone needs to have, and I am so glad they taught me! I enjoyed being able to design and make my own clothes and items to have affordable, unique outfits.
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| Pair of Dark Green Handmade Mugs |
How long have you been making pottery? What are your favorite things to make?
I have been at the potter's wheel for about eight years now. I love experimenting with new glaze combinations. Every time I unload a kiln it is like Christmas! You just never know what you are going to get out of it. There is so much chemistry involved and also quite a bit of luck! Currently my favorite thing to make are vases.
What inspires you to create?
My dreams. I wake up in the middle of the night with a new idea and can't wait to get up to try it. I also draw inspiration from time outdoors.
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| Organic Soft & Cozy Cream Colored Baby Pants with VW Bus style handmade applique |
What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
Music is something that I love to have when I am creating. I find that the type of music that I am listening to while working on a piece often influences it's outcome.
How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
In addition to my 10 month old, I care for a friend's 3 month old baby five days a week. On the rare occasion that they nap at the same time, I squeeze in some work during that time. The rest of my business is done after my son is in bed. My husband is so patient and will often sit and talk with me while I am creating so that we can spend time together in the midst of the madness that is currently our life!
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| Organic Cotton Pink Bird Crib Shoes with Eco Felt Soles |
What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
I have been so impressed with the handmade children's toys on Etsy. We try to avoid toys with batteries, and Etsy has more options than any other place that I have looked.
When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
Any chance that I get I spend outside. I love to hike, bike, camp or sit around a fire.
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| Organic Cotton Bodysuit with Friendly Octopus |
Where can we find you?
www.engelpottery.etsy.com
www.growingupwild.etsy.com
http://engelpottery.blogspot.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Engel-Pottery/181943588482357
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Growing-Up-Wild/167596359954920
What is your favorite shop on Etsy currently? Little Sapling Toys (http://www.etsy.com/shop/littlesaplingtoys)
Great interview Kelly! I am so envious of those that make pottery :) I tried it in HS and was not very good at it :( Your pieces are beautiful! I enjoy both of your shops!
ReplyDeleteLoved reading this! You make beautiful things!!
ReplyDeleteI really loved getting to know you, Kelly! Your organic cotton pink bird crib shoes are super cute! I adore all that you do. ~ Rebecca S.
ReplyDeleteI love those mugs.
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