Feature Shop: Sarahndipities

Happy Wednesday! The cheerful personality of Sarah of Sarahndipities really comes through when you read her busy blog and this interview. Wouldn't you just love to have a cup of coffee with her? Learn more about this long-time team member and busy mom of five below! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks.


What is your name?
Sarah Anderson

Where are you located?
I live in Mt. Pleasant, UT.

Tell us a little about yourself.
I a 32-year-old SAHM of five great kids! My oldest is 10, and my youngest is 9 months! My hubby is a 5th grade teacher at our local elementary school. We've been married for 12 years.

What do you sell in your Etsy shop? 
Mostly crocheted hats and accessories...but also some blankets and embroidered dolls.

Embroidered Felt Matryoshka Doll Plushie Pattern

How long have you been crocheting? 
I've been crocheting now for about 11 years!

What or who got you started in your craft? 
My grandmother taught me how to crochet when I was expecting my first baby. I wanted to make her a baby blanket! And the rest is history! :)

OOAK Retro Granny Square Lap Afghan

Tell us the story behind this item: OOAK Retro Granny Square Lap Afghan. What inspired you? How did you choose the materials/colors/etc.?
I got a bunch of vintage yarn remnants from my grandma, and there were all these great colors! I couldn't figure out what to do with them for the longest time, but I've always LOVED granny squares so that's what I ended up making! It's truly a one-of-a-kind piece, since the yarns I used aren't available anywhere!

How did your shop get its name? 
I wanted to have my shop include my name and be something clever and memorable. I also wanted to have some flexibility so that I could change what I was selling if I wanted to!

How do you balance mothering and running a small business? 
It's a lot of work!! For me, I find that making myself a schedule really helps. I try to do 'work' things when the kids are busy with other things, and I also make after school until bedtime hours off limits for 'businessy' type things.

The Meanie - Outdoors Man Crochet Beanie

What is one piece of advice or a tip you'd give other stay-at-home moms? 
Don't feel bad if you need to take a lot of breaks! It's better to keeping moving along in the right direction, with frequent breaks, than it is to get stressed out and get nowhere!

Do you have a favorite quote or inspirational saying you'd like to share?
"Motherhood is not a hobby, it is a calling. You do not collect children because you find them cuter than stamps. It is not something to do if you can squeeze the time in. It is what God gave you time for." ~ Neal L. Anderson

What do you like to browse for on Etsy? 
I love looking for unique supplies and, of course, children's items!

Crochet Boho Headband / Headwrap

What is your favorite Etsy shop currently? 
I love so many, but a couple of my current faves are www.etsy.com/shop/claraiuribe and www.etsy.com/shop/annemariesbreiblog

Where can we find you?
Etsy: sarahndipities.etsy.com
Blog: sarahndipities.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sarahndipities1
Twitter: twitter.com/#!/Sarahndipities1
Pinterest: pinterest.com/sarahndipities
Crafsty: www.craftsy.com/craftsyer/115582
Ravelry: www.ravelry.com/people/sarahndipities
Google+: plus.google.com/u/0/116525346303961018630/posts

OOAK - Custom Retro Granny Square Lap Afghan

Feature Shop: MegOri Girls

This week, meet Lang of MegOri Girls. She's been active on our team since she joined more than a year ago, and she manages the tutorials posted to the blog each week. Read on to learn more about this busy mom of two! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks


What is your name?
Lang

Where are you located?
Northwest region of the Chicago area

Tell us a little about yourself.
I am married and have two girls age 8 and 11. I originally came from Vietnam but married to an Irish husband who's U.S. born. Before becoming an SAHM, I worked as an staff accountant for various companies. Some of the things I most enjoy doing are sewing, reading, watching movies, gardening, baking, tasting new food, and spending time with my family.

What do you sell in your Etsy shop?
Mostly clothes and shoes for 18" dolls

Doll Boots, Off White, Cream with black trim

How long have you been sewing and designing doll clothing and accessories?
I started to sew at about nine years old and took some breaks in between kids but never truly stopped. My sewing background is largely related to women's and children's fashion. Sewing doll clothes and accessories is a passion that I picked up within recent years when my girls and I discovered the beautiful American Girl dolls!

What or who got you started in your craft?
My (late) mom was the first person who taught me how to sew. I took some sewing classes but mostly did a lot of self teaching over the years. My mom had an antique sewing machine that had the foot peddle, and that was what she used to teach me. I even managed to make a few things out of that peddling sewing machine!! Now every time I see them, I think of Mom.

Ruffle Top and Leggings & Bracelet Beige with Red Rose Trims

Tell us the story behind this item: Ruffle Top and Leggings & Bracelet. What inspired you?
I was inspired by the sunny cheerful weather that day and wanted to make something playful and girly, so I decided to make a ruffle outfit for the dolls.

How did your shop get its name?
“MegOri” is a combination of the names of my two daughters, Meglan and Orianna. I named the shop in their honor because I would not have turned to doll clothes and shoes if I didn’t have girls. So, they were the original inspiration that brought me to where I am today.

Pink Turtleneck with Mauve Leggings and Black Shawl Poncho

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
It gets hard at times because no matter what I do, it’s never enough time in a day to do everything I want to do. I think in reality there’s no such “good balance” when you run a small business and have children at home. If you get something done, something else falls behind. I learn to set daily priorities and come up with smaller goals to reach, and I am much more “lenient” to myself than I was before I had the shop. Some days my plan is just “go with the flow” where not everything will get done but something will be done, and that’s okay. I also always try to put the kids first.

What is one piece of advice or a tip you'd give other stay-at-home moms?
Set your priorities straight, and stay focused on what’s most important to you. Plan your life the way you think works for you not on how other moms do.

Do you have a favorite quote or inspirational saying you'd like to share?
"The way you treat yourself sets the standard for others." -Sonya Friedman

Pink Damask Dress, Headband, Bracelet

What do you like to browse for on Etsy?
I enjoy looking at beautiful paintings, aroma candles, tiny crochet animals, and women's or girl's clothes.

What is your favorite Etsy shop currently?
Love this creation and can’t believe that it’s edible: www.etsy.com/listing/81883833/sugar-gumpaste-hot-pink-anemones-set-of

Where can we find you?
www.megorigirls.etsy.com
www.facebook.com/megorigirlsboutique
www.twitter.com/megorigirls
www.pinterest.com/megorigirls/

Feature Shop: Bows by Emily Grace

This week, I'd like to introduce you to Lorie, and active member of our team and the creative force behind Bows by Emily Grace. Learn more about this crafty mom of two! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?
Lorie

Where are you located?
Northeastern Pennsylvania

Tell us a little about yourself.
I am a stay at home wife and mommy to my two children, ages 8 and 5, and our three dogs. I love to make hair bows, but I also like to crochet and read for relaxation.

What do you sell in your Etsy shop?
Hair accessories for little (and big) girls!

How long have you been making hair accessories?
Ever since our daughter was born eight years ago, its really been an addiction!

What or who got you started in your craft?
I have always been a crafting person, even as a child, my mom started me in crafts, but I started making hair bows once our daughter was born.

Gingham Flower Clippie Set

Tell us the story behind this item: Gingham Flower Clippie Set. What inspired you?
I just love gingham; it reminds me of years ago, when times were simpler. I made this particular set around the Fourth of July last year because I thought the red gingham and white background looked so fresh and clean for the holiday!

How did your shop get its name?
My daughter's name is Emily Grace.

Easter Headband and Clippie Set

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
My family always comes first. I usually make my hair accessories when my children are at school or gone to bed for the night.

What is one piece of advice or a tip you'd give other stay-at-home moms?
Always put your family first....your children will never be this age again, don't miss a single minute!

Orange Tuxedo Bow Hair Clippie Set

Do you have a favorite quote or inspirational saying you'd like to share?
My life's inspiration is a Bible verse...."Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and he will direct your paths" Proverbs 3:5-6.

What do you like to browse for on Etsy?
Silver stamped jewelry!!!!!!!

Peace Sign Boutique Style Bow

What is your favorite Etsy shop currently?
www.etsy.com/shop/JoyBelleJewelry Gorgeous jewelry at amazing prices! I just ordered a necklace for myself and my sister who just had her first baby!

Where can we find you?
Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/BowsbyEmilyGrace
Facebook: www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Bows-by-Emily-Grace/206161516087455

Doll & Me Woven Headband Set

Feature Shop: ScissorGoddess

If you've participated in our business card swaps (and you should!), then you've met Nicole of ScissorGoddess. The swaps were her idea, and she's been running and organizing them for about a year now. Meet this busy mom and three and learn more about her creations! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?

Nicole

Where are you located?

Lehighton, PA

Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m a SAHM of three little girls ages 8, 7, and 2. My time is consumed by my girls, being an active member of the school’s PTO, and helping my neighbors with babysitting. When I can manage to find some free time I love to read, draw, paint, sew, and of course -- craft! 

What do you sell in your Etsy shop?

Different types of accessories for all age ranges: Hair clips and bows, necklaces, and bracelets.

Upcycled Sunny Yellow Vinyl Record Cuff Bracelet

How long have you been crafting? 

I’ve always been inclined to make things for myself but really started crafting in early 2009 when my daughters got interested in hair clips but I felt that the retail stores overcharged for poor quality items. Then it just sort of spiraled from there into other types of accessories.

What or who got you started in your craft? 

YouTube is where I got started with simple clips and bows; once you get the basics down it’s really easy to expand with your own ideas.

Tell us the story behind this item: Upcycled Funky Fashion Necklace. What inspired you? How did you choose the materials/colors/etc.

This necklace is actually up-cycled from three or four other necklaces that I had purchased for myself and were either broken or unworn. I don’t like to waste anything so I disassembled them and played with the parts until I came up with something I thought was pretty and interesting. My middle daughter loves this necklace because it’s her favorite colors and she says it’s very “rockstar.”

OOAK Upcycled Funky Fashion Necklace

How did your shop get its name?

Everything I create starts by being cut; from ribbons and bows to metal for beading, my world revolves around a good pair of scissors. I played around with a bunch of different shop names and when I came up with ScissorGoddess, it just seemed to fit me best.

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?

Some days are more difficult than others, any SAHM mom knows what I mean! It’s really about committing to make the time for your shop and all the steps that go into keeping it running. 

Disney Cinderella Shimmery Blue Boutique Bow

What is one piece of advice or a tip you'd give other stay-at-home moms?

A giant calendar and scheduling EVERYTHING! Each year I buy a desk-sized calendar and attach magnets to the back so it can be on the fridge. I have a magnetic locker bin that holds pens and highlighters right next to the calendar so I can jot things down as they come up. There is nothing that happens in this house that isn’t on the calendar! There are only two rules with the calendar: mark events/appointments/etc. as soon as you have the information, and don’t over schedule any day. The calendar is my guideline for maintaining my business just like a job, if a day is too busy then it’s a day off from crafting but I can also clearly see where there’s time to get my “work” in too. It’s a real lifesaver and we’ve been using it for over two years now.

Do you have a favorite quote or inspirational saying you'd like to share?

No pain, no gain

What do you like to browse for on Etsy?

I love to check out other shops to see what neat things are popular, maybe gain some inspiration for my own shop in the process. Most of my searches are random by keyword, for example if I’m not having a good day I may search “happy” and then just browse from there, it works really well to lift my spirits.

Sassy Schoolgirl Black And Pink Plaid Set Of Two Bows

What is your favorite Etsy shop currently?

My longtime favorite has been www.etsy.com/shop/schin. I get inspired to create every time I visit her page.

Where can we find you?

Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/ScissorGoddess

Facebook: www.facebook.com/scissorgoddess

Twitter: twitter.com/#!/Scissor_Goddess

Lost In Wonderland Long Chain And Charm Necklace OOAK

Feature Shop: Fruitful Delights

She's a new member of our team, but Heather of Fruitful Delights has jumped right in! Learn more about this busy, jam-making mom, and then take a moment to browse her delicious shop. It always makes me hungry! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks


What is your name?
Heather O'Sullivan

Where are you located?
My husband, two boys, and I live in the beautiful little borough of Pennsburg, Pennsylvania.

Tell us a little about yourself. 
I'm a SAHM of two beautiful boys, Connor, who is almost four, and Liam, who is almost two. My husband and I both grew up in New Jersey and moved to Pennsylvania for work, and we absolutely love where we are. We live in a 112-year-old brick Queen Anne Victorian home which we are slowly returning to its beauty when we aren't chasing the kids around, living life, and spending time with our family.

Peach Jam

What do you sell in your Etsy shop? 
I sell homemade jams and spreads ranging from your classics like blackberry and blueberry to some new flavors such as strawberry-lemonade and peach-blueberry.

How long have you been canning and making jams? 
I have been making jam since the summer of 2009, almost three years now.

What or who got you started in your craft? 
My husband got me started in making jam. His family would go blueberry picking on the borders of their property in the Poconos and a few other places and have been making jam for years, and he wanted the two of us to be able to enjoy it too.

Blackberry Jam

Tell us the story behind this item: Apple Conserve with Raisins and Walnuts. What inspired you? How did you choose the fruits and flavors to include? 
The inspiration behind the apple conserve came because I'd already made a ton of apple butter, apple sauce and pies but had quite a few apples left over. I found a recipe in an old handwritten cookbook and thought it sounded different and was amazed at how those three flavors -- apple, walnut and raisin -- worked so well together! It is excellent by itself on toast or as used in place of mint jelly when served with meats. (There's actually a post on my blog about this flavor...)

How did your shop get its name? 
My shops name took me a good three months to decide upon. I was looking for something simple and descriptive of my craft that hadn't already been taken in the Internet world. Fruitful Delights wasn't actually my first, second or third choice. Instead it was a combination of a few other names I had tried, but once I saw it written out on a label for my products I was hooked.

Homemade Jam Wedding/Party Favor

How do you balance mothering and running a small business? 
I have a pretty detailed schedule written down for myself which breaks down my day with my boys. It's how I have figured out (for myself) how to keep my house running and my kids content. My craft makes it pretty easy for me to balance my children and my business. Berry picking is a pretty short season, depending on the berry, and my husband does most of the picking on his way home from work. That leaves me time to take care of my boys, and I will make jam in the evenings after they've gone off to bed. Since it is such a short season, I'm usually actively making jam from May until November. I do freeze berries for jam for the four of us so that way I can put my focus on Fruitful Delights jam first.

What is one piece of advice or a tip you'd give other stay-at-home moms?
As hard as it is, try not to compare yourself or try to be like any other mother. Each one of us has our own way of getting things done, keeping the balance. Some moms, like myself, have to do it all on their own without the help of extended family, which has enough pressure in and of itself. I ask lots of friends how they do it with their kids and over time, I figured out a schedule and routine that worked for my kids. We're each unique as individuals, and it's important to find a routine that works well for you as a family and stick with it.

Do you have a favorite quote or inspirational saying you'd like to share?
"One loses many laughs by not laughing at oneself." Sara Jeannette Duncan

Apple Butter

What do you like to browse for on Etsy? 
When I first joined Etsy, I browsed for earrings. I love earrings but never seem to buy anything for myself. Since I found out we would be welcoming a girl into my husband's family soon, I have been gushing over all of the sweet baby girl items that these amazing people make.

What is your favorite Etsy shop currently?
Little Millie Boutique

Where can we find you?
Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/FruitfulDelights
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Fruitful-Delights/247204011974407
Blog: fruitfuldelightsonetsy.blogspot.com/

Feature Shop: Pink Paisley Boutique

I've spent a fair amount of time ooh-ing and aah-ing over the jewelry pieces in Pink Paisley Boutique. Meet Sarah, the creative mom behind it all! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?
Sarah Schmidt

Where are you located?
The lovely western 'burbs of Chicago.

Tell us a little about yourself.
I am a mother to three crazy kids and a wife to a wonderful German man, who I somehow convinced to move across the world for me. I love, love, love projects...it could be DIY projects around our old house, fixing up my daughter's room, gardening and, of course, making jewelry.

Silver Jumble Necklace

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?
Shoppers will find trendy, handmade jewelry at very affordable prices. There are a few tried and true styles that I keep around and will remake but, most of the time, I am trying to come up with new, original pieces.

How/why did you get started?
Like a lot of people on Etsy, I started making jewelry for fun. A good friend of mine taught me some of the basics and from there I was hooked, mostly because I loved being able to make something exactly the way I would want to wear it. I started selling to friends, then friends of friends, at parties, local craft shows, and then Etsy.

Multi-colored Bauble Bracelet

How long have you been crafting?
I've always loved creating; I can remember trying to sew myself a skirt when I was around 8.... needless to say, it didn't turn out that great! I've also dabbled in photography. But I have been making jewelry for the past 3 years.

What is your favorite thing to make?
Necklaces! There is something so feminine about draping something pretty around your neck. I never tire of trying to make necklaces that really grab attention.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
I really enjoy recreating old jewelry into something new. Many times, clients will bring me sentimental pieces of jewelry that have been inherited, and I will create a brand new piece of jewelry, incorporating those special items. It makes me feel good to know that I've made a wearable memory for someone.

What inspires you to create?
Oh anything and everything! Color, fashion, the right music.

Handsewn Linen and Pearl Cuff

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
A nice cup of hot tea.

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
It is an ever-evolving process, isn't it? I set aside a few hours every day for work, usually when at least two out of three kids are in school. Sometimes that means laundry will go unfolded for a little longer but, I figure, the more I treat my jewelry making like a job, the more successful I will become.

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?

I love checking out vintage shops, not only for interesting pieces of jewelry but also for architectural finds, like old corbels somebody has pulled out of a house. I am a sucker for striking photography, if the item has been photographed well, I may just favorite the item for the sake of the photo alone.

Pastel Pearl Bauble Necklace

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
Probably driving my kids to or from whatever activity they're involved in at the moment!

Where can we find you?
www.shoppinkpaisley.etsy.com
www.facebook.com/PinkPaisleyChicago

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
www.etsy.com/shop/UrbanFarmgirlAndCo: This shop always has something new to look at and her pictures are gorgeous.

Feature Shop: Sillygeese Designs

Got a silly goose in your house? Team member Shannon opened her shop, Sillygeese Designs, because she was inspired by her own three silly geese. Her colorful crochet creations are sure to make the silliest kid smile! Plus, between today and Sunday, Dec. 11, you can save in her shop with coupon code FEATURE30. - Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?
Shannon

Where are you located?
Just outside of Austin, TX

Tell us a little about yourself.
I am a stay-at-home mom to three sillygeese, three pomeranians, and two ragdolls. I enjoy creating for my kids and being my own boss. I just love creating and designing. It has brought tons of joy to my life. I love meeting and conversing with new people and anytime I get to talk crafting with fellow crafters or just those that appreciate it.

Soft Crochet Doll Set -- Molly and Megan

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?
Mostly hand-crocheted items: scarves, purses, and other fun items.

How/why did you get started?
I always have a project in my hands, and people started buy things from me right off the hook, so to speak, so I looked around and sold on Ebay for a bit then found Etsy. I took a few years off as life got very busy, but when I got pregnant last year and had to slow way way down, people started buying off my hook again, and I reopened my store.

Crochet Boutique Owl and Little Birdie Drawstring Purse

How long have you been crafting?
Since I was a small child, my mom would do craft fairs during the holidays, and all her kids would pitch in to get enough completed to make money for Christmas.

What is your favorite thing to make?
Anything new. I recreate popular items all the time, but I really enjoy being creative and making something for the first time and seeing what I envisioned come to life.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
Well yarn :D But more specifically, I like to embelish so I like funfur and beads, too.

Boutique Pink Fun Fur Glitzy Bobby Pins

What inspires you to create?
My kids. I have a range from 10 to 9 months, and they are always inspiring me. My slogan has always been "Hand crocheted with your sillygoose in mind." That is because all my items where inspired by my own sillygeese.

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
Scissors. I can really get stumped and stopped by a lack of scissors. I've taught kids to knit with pencils, so really it's the scissors.

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
Well, the kids come first -- I am a SAHM mom. Thankfully I have two that are a huge help around the house and with the baby. They also think my business is cool and like to see stuff head out the door to someone else to enjoy.

Boutique Crochet Wild Pink Zebra Eyelash Fashion Scarf

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
Sewing patterns and things for the kids.

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
Reading, anything soccer related, and taking care of a busy household.

Soft Crochet Purple/Brown/Blue Boy Doll -- Aaron

Where can we find you? 
My store is www.SillyGeeseDesigns.etsy.com, and my blog is www.SillyGeeseDesigns.blogspot.com.

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
Fluffygirlboutique: Not only does she sew beautiful stuff, but she is super nice too!

Feature Shop: Altered by Jenn

The items in this week's featured shop, Altered by Jenn, are so festive, I want to plan a party! Meet Jenn, the mom behind the shop. Plus, she's offering 20% off all gift boxes until Dec. 7! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?
Jenn

Where are you located?
Nebraska

Tell us a little about yourself.
I have been married to my wonderful husband since January 2005 and we have 2 children, our son is 5-1/2, and our daughter is 3. I am on the steering team for the local MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers). I grew up in the Air Force, so I really have no home, LOL.

Santa Treat Boxes

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop? 
Banners, cupcake and cake toppers, bookmarks, note pads, Tooth Fairy Tins, and more.

How/why did you get started? 
Everyone kept telling me that I needed to start selling my stuff since it was cute.

How long have you been crafting? 
I've been working with paper since 2006.

Dalmatian Mini Banner - I AM 1

What is your favorite thing to make?
Custom orders. Some of the ideas my customers have asked me to create are things that I would have never thought about making.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
Paper and ribbon

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
Snacks

Reindeer Treat Boxes

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
I try to only work on my business during nap time and after the kids go to bed at night. But sometimes you'll find me making designs on my Cricut Gypsy to later cut out.

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for? 
Inspiration and gifts

Tooth Fairy Tin - Dark Brown Haired Boy

When you're not crafting, what are you doing? 
Spending time with my family, reading, having coffee with friends.

Where can we find you?
Facebook: www.facebook.com/alteredbyjenn
Etsy: www.alteredbyjenn.com
Blog: alteredbyjenn.blogspot.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/alteredbyjenn

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently? 
Pedestrian Designs (www.etsy.com/shop/pedestrian)

Happy Birthday Banner - Lil Birdie Theme

Feature Shop: Handmaiden Canada

Reading these questionnaires each week makes me want to meet everyone in person. This week, I'd like to book a plane ticket to Canada to have a cup of tea or coffee with Rebecca of Handmaiden Canada. Read on to learn more about this mom of nine, her wonderful Waldorf dolls, and her lifetime of crafting. - Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks


What is your name?
Rebecca

Where are you located?
A little place in Ontario, Canada, called Barry's Bay.

Tell us a little about yourself.
I live with my husband and nine children in the "back woods" of Canada. I grew up in the country, and I love it. I love that I can sit out on my back porch in the early morning and hear silence. I love that I can walk down the road to a sparkling, clean lake to swim. I love the drama of the seasons. I love that I can see and feel God in His creation that surrounds me.

Waldorf Doll, Luvkin, Jade, 15 in

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop? 
Handmade Waldorf dolls and doll clothing, handknit and felted purses, upcycled wool purses, girly dresses.

How/why did you get started?
My father and mother both instilled in me a deep love for all things handmade. My dad was a luthier (built handmade guitars) until I was about eight years old, and my mom was the type of mom who would make her own granola, hand-smock each one of us dresses for Easter, always had a knitting project on the go, and wasn't afraid to get her hands dirty in the garden. She had me sewing my first outfit when I was six years old. I'll never forget it...many seams sewn and then ripped out....and then sewn again. Did I mention she had the patience of a saint!? :)

Creativity was always encouraged. It was a very "organic" process. We had trunks of fabric scraps, yarn and craft supplies always at our disposal and we were encouraged to just try stuff. My mother would teach us the skills necessary, and then give us free reign to design and create. And of course she loved every single project even more than the last! A woman can always use another pot holder, right?!

How long have you been crafting?
I remember learning how to embroider when I was really young, probably about 3 or 4. My mom gave me a little piece of gingham in an embroidery hoop and taught me how to do crosstitch.

What is your favorite thing to make?
Waldorf dolls!! I love how each one is completely unique...it's like his or her look and personality gently unfolds as he/she is created.

Waldorf Doll, Luvkin, Fiona, 15 in

Why is it important to you to use recycled or upcycled materials?
Recycling, or "upcycling" as some now call it, was and is just a part of life in a big family. Things are passed down...re-used and re-purposed. We often shop second hand. There is something so ultimately satisfying in taking someone else's "junk" and making it into something funky and useable.

Waldorf Doll Bed -- Rustic Twig Furniture

What makes your dolls unique?
They are one-of-a kind and they are made from all natural materials. The skin and clothing are made from cotton fabrics, they are stuffed with 100% wool for stuffing, and they have hair made from handspun, hand-dyed yarns of natural fibers. They are handmade with love and attention to detail...something that your child could pass on to the next generation.

What inspires you to create?
Colours...people...faces...nature.

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
A cup of coffee/tea and MUSIC. :)

How do you balance mothering and running a small business? 
It's tricky, because I don't have huge chunks of time available to me, but I just do a little bit at a time...whenever I get the chance...while helping the kids with homework, riding in the car, waiting in the dentist's office, while watching a movie. You'd be surprised how all those little bits of time add up! ;)

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
Yarn and fabric. :)

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
Spending time with my hubby, mothering, enjoying the beauty of nature.

Waldorf Doll Dress, 15 inch, Folk Art Flowers

Where can we find you?
Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/handmaidencanada
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/handmaidenetsy
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Handmaiden-Canada/180546945310397

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
I absolutely LOVE the shop applenamos

Feature Shop: Baby Swank

Team member Meagan Visser is a busy mom of two expecting her third in December! She runs Etsy shop Baby Swank, where she sells handmade, eco-friendly items for babies and toddlers, and coaches other work-at-home-moms on her coaching blog, MeaganVisser.com. Thanks for sharing your story, Meagan! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name? 
Meagan Visser

Where are you located?
I live in the beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains of East Tennessee in a little town called Butler. We’re very rural, and it’s just perfect for us. I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else!

Tell us a little about yourself.
I’m a SAHM to two boys ages 3 and 18 months. We’re expecting our third baby this December, and yes, it’s another boy! I’m so blessed! LOL! I’m married to my high school sweetheart although he was homeschooled. I love living and learning about the natural life, using herbs, being self-sufficient, and making things for my family.

Mini Bath Bombs

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?
I offer fashionable and eco-friendly products for babies and toddlers. That includes my OOAK handmade baby and toddler bibs called Washcloth Bibs, cloth flannel baby wipes, and a new line of natural skin care products.

How/why did you start your business?
I started my shop as a creative outlet when my kiddos were small. I’m always doing creative things and I thought that I’d give selling them a try for fun and extra money. It took me a while to come up with something that I thought was unique and original enough to create a business around, but once I found that, it seemed like everything else just fell into place.

Crocheted Scrubbie - 3 Pack

How long have you been crafting?
I’d say I’ve been seriously crafting since I was in high school. At least that’s when I really got interested in it. I’ve always loved to make things, but I don’t think I realized how crafting was actually a part of life and that you can make so many things that you can use.

What is your favorite thing to make?
I love making any kind of handmade gifts for people! I think it’s seeing their reactions when they open a gift and know that I’ve spend time and energy making it just for them.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
Wow, I have so many. It’s hard for me to narrow it down into just a few. I’m one of those people who wants to be well-rounded and wants to learn all kinds of ways of crafting. I love to sew, I love to decorate cakes, I love to make herbal products, I love to crochet, and I dabble in jewelry making and ceramics a bit. I’m sure there’s more, too!

Baby Bib Pack

What inspires you to create?
I think seeing beautiful things gives me inspiration, whether it’s another product or a color palette or a stunning photo. Even hearing someone talk about something they’d like or need can bring on inspiration. I want to recreate it in my own way to fit my needs or to create something that will fit someone else’s needs.

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
I don’t think I have anything in particular that I need to have with me. I do need my space to be clutter free, but that’s about it. I like being organized and prepared so if I start something, I want all the unnecessary junk out of my way and I want everything I’ll need within reach!

Baby Gift Basket

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
Oh that can be a challenge! Besides running my Etsy shop, I also run a coaching website for mompreneurs – MeaganVisser.com - and that’s something that I know a lot of moms struggle with. I’m not perfect at it by any means!

To start off with, I know my priorities and they’re set in stone. Family first! I fit my business into my life, not my life into my business. Yes, I want to be successful, but successful to me is having a happy, well-cared-for family and doing what I love. There are times that I need to step back and refocus, but that’s normal and it’s a good thing.

I’d say the things that work best for me is to have a daily routine and do my best at sticking to a schedule. I try not to overwhelm myself by having too many “to-dos” each day. I’d rather under schedule my day, than to over schedule it. I get done what I need to during my work times and if for some reason I have extra time, great! I’ll do some more. I also schedule in times for my children’s school {we homeschool}, lunch, cleaning and family time. Some days are more rushed and things get skipped depending on what all I have to do, but for the most part we do well with everything!

Sample Pack - (3) 2 oz Sample Sizes

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
I love looking for gifts for people and I love finding beautiful treasuries to share.

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
Probably teaching my little guys, spending time with friends and family, cooking/cleaning, sleeping, etc.

Where can we find you? (Etsy link, blog, Facebook, Twitter, stores, etc.)
Etsy Shop: http://babyswank.etsy.com
MeaganVisser.com: http://meaganvisser.com
Baby Swank Blog: http://babyswank.blogspot.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/EtsyBabySwank
Twitter: http://twitter.com/MeaganVisser

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
Oooh, tough…I have so many! I’d say my newest favorite find would be The Cozy Project {thecozyproject.etsy.com} because I love coffee and herbal teas and she has the cutest, most creative cozies for your cups!

Feature Shop: Peace, Baby! Batiks

Good morning! Continuing our "meet your leaders" series of shop features, I'd like to introduce myself. I'm Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks; I bring you the feature shop each week and am leader of the SAHM of Etsy Facebook Team. I've really enjoyed learning more about everyone in their feature each week!

What is your name?
Cori

Where are you located?
Waldorf, MD

Tell us a little about yourself.
I’m a SAHM to my son, who will be four in December. Currently, he’s obsessed with all things space, so we spend a lot of time playing, building, reading about, watching, and Googling the Space Shuttle, Mars rovers, and various rockets. My husband and I have been married eight years. My professional background is in online journalism, and before my son was born, I worked as a web producer for a nonprofit media watchdog organization in Washington, DC.

Toddler T-Shirt: Blue with Batik Peace Sign,
Long Sleeves (18 months)

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?
Batik T-shirts and dresses for babies and toddlers. By popular demand, I have expanded to include a few shirts for youth and adults.

How/why did you get started?
I got the idea after my mother-in-law gave me a beautiful batik wrap-around skirt many years ago. Originally, I was going to make and sell wrap-around skirts, but I can’t sew very well, so that idea fizzled after a couple of prototypes. After my son was born, I picked up my wax and dyes again to do a couple of onesies for him, and thought I might be on to something … and here I am!

Baby Girls Dress: Pink with Batik Hearts,
Long Sleeves (12 months)

How long have you been crafting?
I’ve been doing various crafty things all my life. My mom and I are constantly introducing each other to new hobbies. Some stick, others don’t.

What is your favorite thing to make?
I love making boy onesies and shirts. Maybe I’m biased, but I love my truck, train, plane, and helicopter stencils. I also really enjoy working on custom orders. It's fun to do something I know someone will love.

What inspires you to create?
The colors around me, my kid, my friends and family, my husband. They’re always giving me design and color suggestions, or, in my son’s case, placing orders. I just finished a Mars rover T-shirt for him to go with his Halloween costume. He's tickled.

Toddler T-Shirt: Red with Batik Fire Engine,
Long Sleeves (2T)

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
Some kind of background noise like music or the television.

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
Until recently, I really tried hard to work only when my son was asleep or occupied by someone else. Lately he's been boycotting naps -- and not sleeping in -- so it's become a little more challenging. I still try to do the hot wax part of the shirts early in the morning while he's asleep and limit computer time the rest of the day, only checking in for a couple of minutes here and there. My motto since the nap boycott began is to say "yes" more often than "no" when he asks me to play. The shirts will wait; he'll only be this age for a short time.

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
Jewelry, no doubt about it. I have favorited so many jewelry shops and items it’s not even funny. It’s going to put me in the poorhouse.

Toddler T-Shirt: Purple with Batik Flowers,
Long Sleeves (3T)

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
Playing with my son, watching movies or “Glee” with my husband, watching Washington Nationals baseball, scrapbooking, cooking, reading, or wasting time on Facebook.

Where can we find you?
Etsy: http://peacebabybatiks.etsy.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/peacebabybatiks
Twitter: http://twitter.com/peacebabybatiks
Blog: http://peacebabybatiks.com/blog/
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/peacebaby/
Stores: Just Between Kids, Route 5, Mechanicsville, MD; Stoopher & Boots, Amsterdam Avenue, NYC.

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
For jewelry, I really love Jewelry by Aimee, Ear Wigs by Liz, Pink Paisley Boutique, and Countrified Pride.

Toddler T-Shirt: Orange with Batik Dinosaur,
Long Sleeves (3T)