Proposals, Planning, and Making

Hi all,

The class has a great start on our market project. As I mentioned in class last week, we will continue our making, while discussing practical matters and planning. We will meet this week as normal, but may be able to move to another studio.

There are a couple of websites I'd like you to check out. Etsy and My Craft Portal (Irish only) are intended for inspiration and competitor analysis. Vertex 42 is an excellent source for free online downloads of excel spreadsheets and budgeting advice. We'll discuss these in class as well.

Etsy: Global Handcraft Marketplace

My Craft Portal

Vertex 42

Remember to document relevant competitor details - the designer/maker, the type of product, materials and techniques used, target market, purchase price. I will be giving you a handout in class on Monday to guide you through this process.

See you all then....

Mid Term

Hi all,

I hope you all have enjoyed the Mid-Term break as much as I have. Now that the weekend is here, my thoughts are moving forward towards Monday....and I can't wait to see what you all have come up with for our class sale! Remember to bring in your proposals (see handout), which we will critique together.

Severija Incirauskaite-Kriauneviciene
Way of Roses
stitch on metal

The Knit and Stitch is high on my list of most anticipated yearly events, and this year, the exhibitors were exceptional. A few of my favourites? Our own Louise Boughton's mixed media work was featured on the cover of the Crafts Council's brochure, which looked nearly as good as the real thing, on display in the Crafts Council's gallery. The 62 Group was looking good with their anniversary exhibition, and then there was Mr. X Stitch's unconventional stitch witchery....speaking of which....who did not fall head over heels with Ann Small and Sue Walton's magical installations? I spied a few of you there, taking notes - good for you! It was an excellent opportunity to collect information (did someone say competitor analysis?), network, check out displays, stock up on supplies, and be inspired. 

See you all on Monday!