Monday, August 6, 2012

Artisan Spotlight -- Aliferous Express

 7 questions is our spotlight on our favorite artisans. Please welcome... 



1.      What do you sell in your shop?
Right now my shop has a variety of digital downloads... scrapbook papers, greeting card, scrabble tile and ATC images. A few other things as well and I'm not sure if everything is going to end up staying but for now, I enjoy all sorts of projects so I will either continue the variety, split some off when that sections grows, or nix whatever is not doing well. It's still evolving.

2.      What is your favorite thing about etsy?
I love the community and having a place to sell your handmade things without all the upfront costs. I've always been more of a 'mom & pop' shopper so with having fewer and fewer of those stores in your own town, this makes me feel like the future of the mom & pop shop. It allows those brick and mortar storefronts that have disappeared to return in a new, updated way. For the most part, if you shop on Etsy, you're getting something from a small business person and supporting people in their craft.
3.      What is your least favorite thing about etsy?
I really don't think it's as user-friendly as it could be. I feel like the front page could be utilized far better. The navigation could also use an overhaul if you ask me. For instance, when you view an item in someone's store, you don't have all links to all places or pages of that person's store. You have to go to the storefront or the store's profile page to get certain links to show up. 

4.      What does your studio/workspace look like?
Somewhat messy at times but I don't let it get too out of hand because that overwhelms me and makes my brain cluttered. I have a large room in my attic that has walkout windows so there's lots of light. 









This is my corner where I have all my storage, my computer and my supplies for jewelry making. It used to be far more cluttered with photos, postcards and my own art, but when I decided to put my digital work back online, I cleaned up and decided to start fresh. Right behind my desk I have a small table that I clear off when I want to do tangible art projects.












Believe it or not, my supply closet is always organized! I know... I'm a freak. lol. But when it's not, my head explodes. I'm way calmer and at peace when I know where things are.



5.      What do you do to relax?
A lot of different things actually. I love watching movies, reading, and I'm usually always refreshed and relaxed after the weekends. I have a wonderful group of friends and spending time with them riding and then hanging out at one of the houses for good food, drinks and an abundance of laughter keeps me sane. Those times make Mondays not so horrible. :)
6.      What accomplishments are you the most proud of?
I think I'm most proud of having been a successful small-business owner in the past and proud that I'm finally getting down to business and trying again. I'm fortunate in that I like and do have some talent in different areas, so I never get bored, but then other days I find it hard to concentrate on one thing. Either way, I am proud that I can do more than just one thing... and that it's all self-taught.

7.      What are some of your goals for the next year?
To finalize what I will keep and/or split off into another Etsy store. Grow it so that there is an abundance of items to choose from, and I've always wanted to continue making downloads that are useful for journals, date books, organizational type DIY stuff with pics and fun sections so it's not your boring black& white yearly planner... as well as getting back into my wreath designs before fall/winter set in. I have other thoughts in my head but I'm trying to make myself concentrate on those things first.

You can find out more about Lisa here:

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Awesome to "meet you" Lisa! I always love learning more about our teammates & getting a peak into artist's studios!

Judy Nolan said...

Welcome, Lisa, to the team! I love the romantic look to your digital designs...I hope that will be one of the things you keep forever!

storybeader said...

great interview! I never really thought of etsy being a small-business ownership arena, but you're so right! I love being able to buy supplies on Etsy. You shop is something I strive for - helping other artists and craft people! Nice to learn more about you. Love your work area! {:-Deb

Splendid Little Stars said...

I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about Lisa, her work, and her thoughts.
I agree with Lisa--I love being able to buy original items from the makers themselves. That's what makes etsy special.
I wish you much success in your endeavors, Lisa! (Your digital items are wonderful!)

Memories for Life said...

Oooo...I'm so jealous of your organized work space! Mine is definitely chaos!
And I like your take on having great weekends to make Mondays more tolerable :)

Aliferous Express said...

thank you to every one on the team and all the support. i'm still getting it all together to re-begin a home-based business but it's all good, nothing has been nearly as satisfying and i'd rather work hard and long hours for myself so i appreciate any and all feedback. :)