Tell us about your business:
The tagline for my business is œArty Crafty stuff for Kids. There are two aspects to the business. The first is my handmade products where I specialise in childrens décor and accessories. All my products are designed and made by myself at my Melbourne home and I pride myself on using a gorgeous range of designer fabrics. The second side of the business is my workshops. I am a qualified art teacher so as part of Squiggle and Stitch I run art and craft workshops for children and am also available to host childrens parties. I love working with ˜young artists and all of my workshops are designed to allow children the opportunity to have some arty crafty fun in a relaxed environment.
What inspired you to start your business?
I really love being at home with my kids so whilst on maternity leave with my second daughter I started thinking of ways I could work from home. I began running school holiday workshops at my local neighbourhood house and loved being able to use my teaching skills without all the other stuff that goes along with working in schools. I was also spending a lot of time online (as you do) and was really inspired by the many business pages that I came across on facebook. I have always been a lover of handmade regularly frequenting markets and admiring the work of other handmaidens so after a lot of encouragement from some friends I decided that Id give it a go. It seemed like a good idea to try and combine my teaching with creating my own products.
Is there an interesting anecdote behind your business name?
I wanted something that represented both sides of the business and that was catchy and fun. After lots of brainstorming and throwing around various art and craft terms I asked for some input from friends and together we came up with Squiggle and Stitch.
What is the most satisfying part of what you do?
Definitely the response from my customers especially when I get repeat business. I still get a buzz out of every sale I make and I love it when customers take the time to send me messages telling me how much they love what theyve purchased. When I run workshops theres nothing better than seeing kids having fun making art. I get enormous satisfaction from seeing what masterpieces they come up with.
Have you tried something in business that didnt work as planned, or on the flip side “ worked out better than expected?
Yes lots, I am constantly learning! Ive had promotions that didnt get the response I was hoping for and markets that were disappointing but you take from each experience what you can and move on to the next. When I first started I think I tried to offer too many different things but Ive since learnt that its better to focus on a limited range of products and to just do those well.
What would be your best tip for someone thinking about selling their handcrafted goods?
Dont be disheartened if the sales dont come flooding in straight away. It takes time to generate sales and just because you pop something up online doesn’t mean people will see it. You have to spend time marketing and promoting your products and getting your name out there. (but dont spam your goods on other pages) Network, network, network and use the free/affordable forms of advertising that are available to you. Blogs and sites like Handmade Kids are a great way to build up your profile. I also think markets are a great thing to do, even if you dont make a heap of sales you will learn so much by doing them.
Meet the Maker – Squiggle and Stitch
What is your favourite item you make?
Definitely my cushions. I love showing off gorgeous fabrics and combining different designs in striking ways. Cushions are a great way to do this and an easy way to brighten up a room. My personalised cushions are my best seller and they make a great gift.
Any personal or business highlights in the last year:
I was blown away with the amount of support I had for my Santa sacks last year. Whilst it was quite stressful keeping up with the demand I was stoked that so many people liked them. Another highlight would be getting my website up and running.
3 things about you that people might not know:
– I’m a bit of a reality TV junkie. I easily get caught up in shows like Survivor and MKR
– I love the beach, although I’m a terrible swimmer. My favourite holiday spot is Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast.
– I love eating out. I come from an Italian background so its in my blood to love good food.
