How did you design your first product?

[#1]

Hey there!

I'm writing an article about product development and thought I'd check in with the experts - you!

I'm so curious to hear how you developed your early products.

What worked?
How have you changed your product development process over time?
Did you always have a vision for a full product line, or did you start with one strong idea and grow from there?

I can't wait to hear your product stories and hope you'll all chime in.

Thanks!!
Audrey

[EchoLogicGoods]

I had just moved, and was determined to clear out all old favorite (but unwearable) clothes. I had just read a terrific book on "space clearing" and was determined to hold onto only things that I loved and were currently useful to me. I also needed a yoga mat bag, so it was the perfect opportunity to make an old dress that I loved to threads into something useful for myself. So, I searched the internet looking for a simple yoga bag pattern. I didn't find one I liked, so I designed my own. Then as I continued to clear out the clutter, I also found that I had an attachment to all the fabric that I had collected over the years. So many beautiful pieces I held onto because I could make something out of it...boxes and boxes of fabric I had collected and some of it I had quite literally moved thousands of miles with me from NY, to CA, to WA, back to CA and then to here in Oregon. All those moves and still, I was holding onto it because "someday" Id be able to make something out of it. Its interesting the attachments we have to things! So, my Etsy shop was born. My simple new pattern, my miles of fabric and a second hand sewing machine...I was in business!

I did change the design some, and I have plans for adding a pocket to the new ones, maybe even finding a simple way to personalize them. I don't sell a whole lot, and I haven't made my million yet, but every one I sell feels really good because I'm moving the old energy and making something really useful and fun. Best wishes to all of you here on Etsy!

[poisonpear]

My first item started with a scarf I made my brother for Christmas. It was made of cozy woven fabric and I frayed the ends and appliqued little squares on it in a contrasting colour. I loved it so much I made one for myself too, but decided I liked how it looked to pin it closed instead of just tying it. Then I got the idea to put a big button so I wouldn't have to keep poking myself with the pin, and my first button-up scarf was born. I got so many compliments on it I made a few more and started selling them. The first one I sold was to my friend Grace, who still wheres it all the time, 5 years later :)

[Former_Member]

5 years ago I purchased a house right before Christmas. As a single income home owner in New York my wife and I were a little worried about money that holiday. We decided to make everyone candies and candles for gifts. While I was getting my house ready for me to move in I was making candles for all the women in our families. I bought a started kit and realized that I really enjoyed the process and finished product. Come Christmas they were a hit and it was wonderful to see people enjoyed my work.

The following year I found a website with better products and I put more time and effort into perfecting my work. 3 years later my wife had urged me to open an Etsy store and viola! Here I am.

[Former_Member]

i am always making new things. They're mostly from feedbacks and custom orders. A lot of the time they start out as custom orders.
For this process example, i'm going to use my newest item: touch through vinyl phone pouch.
It started out as a custom order. From the beginning of the order to selling to the end user was about 3 months.
First one, that's a general one. it's usually not complete (like i won't finish the lining seam), but it gives me an idea of what need to be tweaked exterior wise - like how much to take in on the sides to make it fit better, do i need all this extra space on top, which way does the zipper need to go, etc, etc.
Second one, that's the tester. I complete it with the tweaks that i noted. I use it for about 2 - 3 weeks. I test it for function and usability. And if there is anything I should add to make it work better. So for the phone pouch, this is where i noted that i needed to add an extra pouch for easy to get to stuff. The tester that i used, didn't have a back pocket, so, i was literally taking everything out of the pouch to find change, credit cards, etc.

For the FINAL one, I make it to what it looks like now. 3 different pockets - phone, large things, and easy to get to things like change and cards. and key hook for the belt loop or wristlet.

i'm pretty sure i'll be tweaking some more as it goes.

I have the perfection syndrome... but i also realize that perfection in everyone's eyes are completely different. so, if there are tweaks that someone would like me to do on a certain product, I would be more than happy to make it perfect for the end user.

[ModernSwitch]

My light switch covers were a solution to a problem I was having. I didn't realize it at the time, but I wasn't the only one having this problem.

When we remodeled our kitchen, I had several different kinds of light switch covers and outlets, and no matter what kind of pattern I found, I was never able to find it in all the styles of covers I needed.

I started experimenting with decoupaging fabric on to a plain light switch cover, and was able to make an entire set for my kitchen. I got so many compliments on them, along with people telling me I should sell them. Right around that same time is when I found Etsy in 2008.

I decided to start with investing $100 in to this to see if it would pan out, and I started with about 15 or so different patterns, I had a few sales here and there and I re-invested every dollar I made back into the business, never going in debt.

After a year I was up to about 100 different patterns with slow and steady sales and I was now paying my self instead of reinvesting back in to my business. I didn't really have very many "kid friendly" designs, so it wasn't till after having my kids was the idea of nursery decor on my radar. I realized my target demographic is parents...once I started catering to them my business exploded and I have been able to offer over 500 different patterns and growing every single day. Now I am able to pay my self more then I was making at my previous job before I had kids, and I get to stay at home with my kids all day!

[ElegantQuirk]

The very first thing I made was a necklace holder for myself. I needed a necklace holder, so I got some paper, some wood, etc. The paper said something like "Pretty Beautiful Gorgeous" across it. When I got it on the rack, it was cut off and said "Pretty Beautiful George!" The wood was too thick and the adhesive I used was just not strong enough to last. After many trial-and-error, I have found what makes my key racks high quality and perfect.

I started out with just key racks in mind, but it is exciting to come up with little ideas here and there that still go with the flow of my shop.

[Former_Member]

I was thinking way back then that I could share my
painting images with a vast audience,
by learning how to make one of a kind art prints.
So my first product was a print from my very own
collection of original paintings created during
many years as an artist.
Still learning and still painting...and love
sharing them with the whole wide word!

[EmilyEckel]

Hi Aidrey, I developed my product in two steps. I knew I wanted to build an Etsy shop for supplemental income in my retirement but I didn't know what to sell. I put together some criteria; it could not be a saturated product line such as jewelry, it had to fit my skills and available resources, it had to be able to hold my interest for years, and there had to be consumer demand for the product. After much trial and error I arrived at buttons. The ah ha moment occurred when I realized 16th century button making techniques could be reinterpreted with contemporary materials. Then I had a flood of button making ideas. I made Dorset cross wheel buttons, set up shop and learned a lot. It was clear to me that I didn't understand my button making brand because every decision was difficult and sales were slow.

I had to close my shop for almost a year to deal with health stuff. But I used the time to read the seller handbook and study other shops. My second ah ha moment was when I realized my brand is creativity. I am not just selling buttons I am also selling my creativity! My customers are creative people who also participate in my brand. Since I've reopened my shop I feel like things are slowly coming together because I've found my direction through my brand.

[Former_Member]

I was asked by a student how to make Mini Top Hats, in drawing out the instructions for her I just got a little involved and the Kit was born!!

As a trained Costume Designer, and Maker I have sewn many wild and wonderful things and whilst I am taking a little break to concentrate on my Etsy shop and teach Sewing I find I can't quite drop the Costumier in me! So I have developed more Sewing Kits- to help beginner sewers make something beautiful, well whilst learning a little more about this craft.

A Fascinator Kit quickly joined the Mini Top Hat Kit. Now there is a Vintage Pin Cushion Ring Mini Kit, Bunting and Sewing Tidy Kit and a whole host of Dressmaking Zines to support them. I am also developing Spats and Corset Kits... in the future I am planning dress patterns! I am wildly excited about all of them, and to think they all are here because someone wanted a Mini Top Hat!!

I am loving reading everyone else's story, what a brilliant thread!! xxx

[JewelMeShop]

I always loved wearing jewelry but have never tried to make one.
One day I felt so tired and fed up with the miserable life of my day work. I had the strong desire to create a jewelry by my own hands. When I returned home I opened my jewelry box, picked some old pieces and got my first materials. I was so happy when I saw my first pendant! It was one of a brown leather, red beads and silver charms. I was so thrilled with this new project that I kept making necklaces all night long.
Sleepless but blissful next morning I went to office carrying all of my creations with me. I show it to my best friend and colleague who encouraged me to keep making items I love.
After that I started experimenting with different materials and styles organizing bazaars to show my jewelry to my friends and colleagues.
To my surprise there were people who loved my style!
Especially my leather necklaces which I enjoy making the most.
I realized I should stick to creating boho leather jewelry. This is the style I like and all I have to do is to find people who also love bohemian style.

[Former_Member]

I have to thank a stranger's thoughtful husband for sending my Etsy product line in the right direction five years ago. .

I started making ACEO cards in late 2008-- mini watercolor paintings of ladies holding cats. I did one a day for a year, posted them on my blog, and got quite a following. At one point, someone's husband saw my art on Etsy and asked if I might do a custom cat lady. It seems his wife's beloved kitty of 14 years had just passed away. I DID NOT want to do custom orders, but how could I turn him down? This kind of thoughtfulness by a husband needs to be encouraged, right? And I too had just lost my beloved kitty of 14 years, and thought this would be a good way for me to deal with grief. Well, after I mailed it off, the husband wrote to say that the portrait brought his wife to tears, which brought me to tears. That was it. Over the next 3 years I painted over 300 custom portraits.

I no longer paint custom portraits due to time constraints, but I have a loyal following of delightful cat ladies and lads, and I've been creating cat-related art, gifts, and jewelry ever since!

[CreationsByPetunia]

The very first piece of jewelry I made was a plain pair of earrings, made with only head pins and a few glass beads. Fast forward 5 years, and I was itching to go back to jewelry making. I started by visiting some jewelry supply and bead stores, and felt like a child in a toy store! I bought tons of beads and some elastic cord, and began making elastic bracelets (a few of which are in my shop now)! My skills have expanded since then, and I'm constantly searching to learn new techniques and styles.

[Former_Member]

Necessity was the 'mother' of my first few products. My husband and I were having little arguments about who uses the last piece of toilet paper and did not get a new one. He always left only a square!

So I started making toilet paper holders and posted my handy work on FB. One of my friends asked me why do I make doubles and not just singles, since one should be enough. Hence the creation of my single toilet paper roll holders and they remain my best seller.

I found that if I created products that I need, they tend to be a more robust idea and I can really put them to the test. Some how necessity helped with guiding me in the right direction.

My product development process has definitely changed since listing my first product. I do look at things from a more commercial perspective and research more with materials, techniques and marketing the product better.

Since I did not start with having a business in mind, I did not have a product line or any idea really! But now as I am taking my Etsy business seriously and growing it to potentially be my main source of income, I have to develop new products with a process! Yes start with a plan! But still necessity is the main place where ideas are born!

[ValerieTyler]

I thought my first products were wonderful at the time, but now I realize how much farther I have come. I'm a self-taught artist so my product development over time has shown my own growth as an artist. Ive dabbled in numerous techniques to try and discover what fits me best and what expresses my style the most. I've created pieces using certain processes simply because I thought they were what "real jewelers did" but the longer I have created the more I have realized that I don't have to do everything the perfect, technical way. Some of my biggest mistakes turned into unique products. Errors in soldering that created splatters led me to realize I could use solder for artistic effect. Placement of parts that went awry led me to think outside the box how to fix things and I often ended up with a more unique and complicated piece in the end.

I've learned to create products using techniques I love, and to not create products that require heavy use of techniques I detest. I really dislike spending a lot of time polishing for example, so I create a lot of oxidized, rusticated pieces that have a more organic look which also fits my own personal style better anyhow.

Consequently since I LOVE hammering away at metal the most, I've begun to create a line that is heavy on texture and forging. Each day it seems I come up with a new way to employ these techniques into different types pieces and I've watched as I've been able to make a more cohesive line.

Once I stopped worrying about doing things the way I thought real artists did it, and started creating things simply the way I enjoyed, I noticed a marked difference in the style and cohesion in my work.

[PrayerNotes]

Hello Audrey!

What worked? I first started out creating bookmarks, as I love them! So, it had to be something I loved, in order for me to create it for others. And, they were very successful, but I wanted to make other items....So, I tried tags...then coasters, journals and magnets. I create items that I find useful in my home and that keeps me motivated and growing.

How have you changed your product development process over time?
I used to make whatever I wanted, buying supplies without thought to cost. That changed fast! Now, I buy everything wholesale and in bulk.

Did you always have a vision for a full product line, or did you start with one strong idea and grow from there?
I started with one item and my product line grew. My most successful line is my coaster line of wedding and map coasters.

[SariBlue]

Hi Audrey,
The concept for my shop and collection was why I started to design jewelry, it was a fascination for history and culture and an obsession with the evil eye. I had been spending lots of time traveling and in markets in Turkey. Watching craftsmen work, seeing the impact of the eye on the culture and I finally gave in to what I had always wanted to do which was create jewelry and live in a creative artful way.
I started with some simple ideas for bracelets... I am bracelet person so that was my immediate draw, mixing the glass beads with modern bits and it moved along from there. My vision was for a modern twist on something traditional.
I very quickly came up with what has become my most popular design and that notion was also based on mixing cultural notions, this is a necklace.
My process has changed in that it is more thoughtful and specific rather than sitting in a room with loads of materials and playing on the floor. I somewhat miss those days. As things have evolved into a true business the creative process has changed to a more organized way of making decisions rather than just a little love affair with my beads :D

[Former_Member]

Actually, someone gave me a box of yarn. A huge box. I have crocheted for over 60 years, so I decided to make some hats. Hats are my favorite things. I figured that if they didn't sell, I had many friends who would like them. I decided to create patterns for the hats without the slightest idea of how. I researched patterns online and chose the type I would use. They were a bit crude, but worked. Then I hit upon the idea of writing them just as I make them; With measurements rather than counting stitches. They have become popular.

[Former_Member]

The first product I designed was extremely personal. My mom had been diagnosed with Stage IV ovarian cancer and had moved in with me in Houston for treatment. It had been a tough month. A few months earlier I had been browsing breast cancer survivor bracelets for her 5 year cancer free anniversary. Unfortunately she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer before I got her that bracelet. I decided I wanted to get her a teal ovarian cancer bracelet to give her something pretty and remind her of all the support she had, but I could not find one that looked like the one in my mind. I decided to teach myself how to wire wrap so that I could make her a bracelet. Her bracelet was the first complete piece I made and I designed it with her in mind. Then I decided all the women in my family should have one and I created a different one to match each person's personality. This was my start in jewelry design and the start of my cancer awareness jewelry. I designed my original pieces with a specific person in mind and created them to match. I still do this with many of my pieces. I am inspired by the gemstones first and then imagine the woman who would wear that gemstone. What is her style? What is her story? What are her special needs for that piece? Even though I may never meet some of the women who wear my jewelry, I still try to keep that personal connection in designing the pieces. I still try to find the meaning it will have to each woman. Sorry for the length, but designing is something that has truly inspired me! :-)

[HandmadeByEvaRose]

I wanted to have something with a fox and could not find exactly what I had imagined...so I drew my own fox and then made it out of felt. I then attached to fabric and made a zipper pouch.
I love designing and often get strange looks on the bus when I fervently sketch foxes and hedgehogs in my notebook.
My designs have slowly evolved to be commercially viable as well as aesthetically pleasing.

P.S Great discussion, love reading other people's views. Thank you.

[CurlicueCreations]

Well, that has certainly been a growing process for me. My first Etsy product was a small quilted trivet, (Americana Bandanna). I was already doing a bit of quilt design, and wanted to try something small to get my feet wet on Etsy. I wasn't sure what direction I wanted to go in. I've since sold quite a few of the Americana Bandanna trivets, plus patterns to make the trivet. I only have a few handmade items in my shop. Most of my shop is vintage sewing, which has been very successful for me. I also tried my hand at selling fabric. That went kind of slow, but I still keep some stock in the shop. Now my main focus is on original quilt patterns. This year my challenge is to make my patterns more professional, and expand my marketing to include brick and mortar stores. What a journey it has been so far. I can't wait to see what happens next! Have a super day, everyone!

[katferentinouCANDY]

The first accessorie i made was for the company i was employed and everyone liked it ....the same day , when i went home i made a pair of earrings for myself and went to work the next day, wearing them ...three of my friends at the designing department of the company i was working , ordered me the same earrings ..i made all of them as gifts for my friends...the first items i made for selling were the leather bracelets with strass, in various colours, which i still have at my shop ...but after some creations i established my personal look which is not minimal and i decided to expand my creative mood to etsy community ......

[hazelgibbs]

I started with something I had learned to do in a class in the UK - a very small trinket box measuring 4" square by 2" tall. After offering my limited items for sale here in 2007 my business has grown to what you will now see inm y shop, pretty complex and very large sewing boxes with dividers, trays and soon to be shown, a sewing box with drawers. Where will it all end!!!

[ChristianaOdum]

I pretty much just play with yarn and see what happens. I let my creativity unfold and create a design as I go along. If I make something I like and am really excited about, I'll try to recreate it and amend the design a little bit. The second go around, I'll be more intentional and pay attention to exactly how I create it so that it can be repeated in the future. I allow myself to play and make mistakes during the initial process, and perfect those mistakes during the second, third, or fourth try. After a few attempts, I pretty much have it exactly as I want it and am able to reproduce the same design if there's a demand for it.

[Former_Member]

This is a great question!

The first item I designed for my shop was (and is) an art smock. I wanted to design something that would cover my daughter's whole body, since I was forever trying to get paint off of the back of her tee shirts, her pants, and so forth. I consulted with her parent-child teacher at her Waldorf school about the design. The Waldorf philosophy encourages natural materials, so I made the smock entirely out of washable and comfortable cotton. It ties in the back because my daughter's teacher made the excellent point that the action of helping a child to put on a smock is a loving, caring gesture, another important theme in Waldorf education. Finally, when children have the opportunity to be creative with tools and spaces that look inviting and feel comfortable, they approach their art projects more calmly and with less distractibility, and they seek out creative time more often. That's why I carefully choose the fabrics for my smocks (and everything else) and make pairings that are simple and often symmetrical.

Thank you for the opportunity to share!

[Former_Member]

Great question. About four years ago I thought I was going to sell my sea glass bottle necklaces all over the world, offering real vintage sea glass in ocean water. I made them and was trying to promote them to larger companies, but no one was biting. I sold several but not like I had imagined. I, of course, thought I was the only one doing them. There were not a lot of them around, but I wasn't the only one. I became discouraged when I saw a lot of them on Etsy and elsewhere going for way less money than I would have thought for real vintage pieces. I mean, about 100 years in the ocean, then hand collected and being bottled up in a little necklace is pretty unique. And time consuming. I put boiled sea water in mine and, so far, have not seen that replicated. I take a lot of time finding very good tiny pieces and I take a lot of time sealing my corks so they don't get grimy in the water. But, alas, it's not going to make me millions. However, I love them and saturated market or not, I'm sticking to them!