Each week I like to feature a Fellow Etsian on my blog as a way of promoting indie artists and their goals.
This week, I’m proud to present Mairi of Mairidesign:
What is your first name and where are you from? (State or country only please)
Mairi, originally from Scotland but now living in Czech Republic.
What type of art or craft do you create and how did you get involved with it?
I create stained glass artwork; mirrors, vases, suncatchers, candle holders and window panels. I was extremely lucky that training as a stained glass designer was my first job. I have, since this exciting begining, graduated in silversmithing and jewellery from Glasgow School of Art and worked as a graphic designer.
What’s the name of your Etsy shop and when did you open for business?
My shop name on Etsy is mairidesign, and I set up in May of this year.br>
What about your family? Are you married? Do you have kids? How do they feel about your business?
I am married to a wonderfully supportive husband who is fantastic at giving me advice and encouragement.
If you’re married with children, how do you juggle being a wife, a mom and a business owner / crafter?
I don’t have children so I just have to get on and do the work.
What are the goals you have for your Etsy shop? Would you like to see it be your full time income, is it your full time income or do you just enjoy it as a hobby.
It would be wonderful if I could live off the income from Etsy but as yet I have still to make a sale. I’m afraid that I am not the best self motivator and at the moment need income from other work. Ideally this would be my full time work.
What tips or hints do you have for those just starting out or who are considering opening a shop or who are struggling with their existing shops?
I guess that perseverence and getting visible is the best way forward.
To find out more about Mairi, and possibly be her FIRST customer (come on guys, lets support our artists!) visit her Etsy shop at Mairi Design on Etsy. You can also follow her blog at Mairidesign.blogspot.com.
