renegade craft fair recap pt5: snag this fabric!
One of the great joys in attending open-air markets, bazaars, and craft fairs, is the fact that you have a unique opportunity to meet and chat with the designers behind the sweet Etsy shops and online storefronts. Years ago a bank loan, a mortgaged house, and a thirst for masochism were the ingredients one needed in order to open a brick & mortar shop that serves a niche consumer. Nowadays, a little entrepreneurial spirit, a hosting account, a lean operation, and a terrific product can expand your customer base from a few hundred passersby to thousands of web surfers, globally. And although the web has ruined my penmanship, it’s also introduced me to independent, talented artists across the country. One of whom is Leah Stickle @gomonkeydesign), Designer and Proprietor of Go Monkey Design. A mother of two from Hudson Valley, Stickle crafts handmade patterns, fabric handbags, clothing, and stuff for the “itty bitty.” Her designs are sweet, colorful, and reminiscent of Rachel Ashwell’s Shabby Chic, only refreshed.
When I asked Leah how long it took her to make a tote or a wristlet, she relayed that from pattern to bag, she could have one at the ready in an afternoon. Balancing her home business with her taking care of her children, time management is paramount. Although I pined for a tote, I snagged a wristlet clutch (ideal for people like me who easily tend to loose small purses and wallets), and am blissed out from its chic beauty.
More images of the products after the jump!
