Remembering where you started

[Former_Member]

I was recently thinking about how my business has changed since I began it over two years ago...and what I've learned that has helped me make it more successful along the way. When I began making jewelry I made laser cut earrings and pendants. I used wood and did all of the drawing, file set-up and even laser cutting by myself (I was in architecture school at the time). Since then, the materials that I use have changed and my shop looks very different than it did in those first few months. For me it is experimenting with materials that has informed the evolution of my business. I learned certain skills with my initial laser cut pieces, but I really enjoy the tactile qualities of the materials I use now...and my customers seem to agree. Without allowing myself to change directions or try new things I don't think I'd still be running an Etsy shop.

Did your business look drastically different when you began? What have you learned along the way that has shaped what you make and how you make it now?

I know this is such a vague question, but I think it's important. For me the first idea is never the best (or the last).

[IstriaDesign]

I'm still new, my shop is not even 4 months old. However, I started with matchsticks jewelry boxes, and altered journals, and that is only a small portion of my shop now, since I learned that I enjoy designing cards and handmade art journals way more.

It will probably change more along the way.

Also, my cards are what sells the most in my shop... so if I didn't change my initial preferences, I doubt I'd have as many sales as I have now.

[Former_Member]

When I started I was doing bike bags and luggage straps. Since then I've pitched the straps and am just focusing on my bike bags. I like specializing in just the one item and having a variety of choices/building inventory.

[Former_Member]

We started about two months ago. We started with two fleece blankets and somehow it has drastically changed into log tealight candle holder, rock/slate candle holders and things like that. We still have one fleece blanket and I always want to have one available, just to remind me what got me started! :)

[Former_Member]

Cindy: It's funny that you say that...I still have a few laser cut wood pieces available in my shop and they are always super popular at craft fairs, too.

[kidsstore]

I like this thread. I started on Etsy about 2 1/2 years ago, and my shop is nothing like the first one. I started making dog clothes, added a shop for aprons, and have since closed both of those shops. I actually donated all of the pet items (over $2,000 worth) to the local animal shelter to sell in their shop when I closed my pet shop. I have also sold most of the unused animal print fabrics and patterns. My heart wasn't really into either shop.

About a year ago I decided to try again and opened kidsstore, and it is what I enjoy. Even with kidsstore, I started out making different items than I now focus on. I let my customers lead me in the direction they wanted me to go. If I hadn't been flexible, I would not be doing as well as I am and probably would have ended up closing this shop. Also, I joined teams and used them to network and learn a lot more of the business side of having an Etsy shop.

An added plus to having my Etsy shop is that it is helping keep my mind and attitude younger. I am in my mid 60s, but my mind is always working and learning, trying to keep up and run a successful shop. There have been so many bonuses to having a shop here, besides the added income, so, Thank you Etsy for all that I have gained in the past 2 1/2 years.

[Former_Member]

Thanks for sharing, everyone!