Today we catch up with Laura Danby, after selling with us in November she returns this Sunday 4th December in Worthing.
My back story:
A few years ago as a Christmas present, I was given a weekends screen printing course. I did the course and absolutely loved it, I was hooked! Halfway through the weekend someone passing through the studio, saw one of my prints and asked to buy it. It was unfinished, I was surprised but flattered. It gave me a big boost and I think it triggered something in me… I thought ‘Wow! Would people really buy my pictures? Maybe I could do this and sell my prints!’
I continued working as a designer in Brighton and printing and crafting in my spare time. I discovered a local screen printing studio, printed away merrily and learnt to use their letterpress machines. I loved the clunky machinery, the wooden and metal type, weird and wonderful paper stocks, the smell of the ink and the authentic feel of the prints. Growing up in the New Forest gave me a love of the natural world around me. I developed an addiction to all things Scandi and I felt a style started to emerge in my work. Until I opened my Etsy shop, it was a hobby, now the passion is evolving into new exciting territory! I cant wait to see what the next year brings.
When did you start your business?
I started my etsy business in December 2014. I launched my shop with very few products and grew from there.
Do you craft?
I am a serial crafter with a huge obsession with stationery! In my evenings I am happier sat round the kitchen table getting stuck into a project, than watching telly! At university I developed a love for paper sculpture and hand cut paper cuts. This then lead onto hand cut stencils to screen print from. I am a graphic designer so love a sharp line, and this combination really worked for me! Now I spend a lot of time crafting with my kids and helping them create the ideas in their heads. I print, stitch and make jewellery too.
Did anything or anyone prompt you to take the plunge?
Friends had often told me that I could sell things that I made. But really I just had a big desire to do it, so I followed my instincts and took the plunge! I felt there was nothing to loose, so gave it a shot.
What has been the best thing about it?
My first response to this question is flexibility. Etsy has enabled me to do what I love, when its convenient to me, and at my pace. I can be there for my family and make up my orders at the time of day that suits me. It has given me freedom and created many new exciting opportunities.
What challenges do you face?
Initially the biggest challenge I face is time. I struggle with time to create new products with my current weekly schedule. I manage to keep stock levels reasonable and send out my orders swiftly. But I feel I need to go to a cabin in the middle of nowhere to get all my ideas down and create new lovely things. However, hopefully that is all about to change!
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