Sunday, December 22, 2013

Buy Handmade vol 87 PLUS GIVEAWAY!!

This week we head to the Ukraine (side note I am half Ukrainian!)



Name: Elena
Age: 28
Occupation: plushies maker
Etsy Shop: romeoshop.etsy.com & toyspatternclub.etsy.com

Tell us a little about yourself.
Hello! I’m Elena, mom and wife, crafter and programmer.
My lovely family and my sweet home are  most important things in my life.
I love to travel, be near kind people, look at bright colors and make funny creatures. I do not like ... only chocolate butter.

When did you start creating and how long have you been on Etsy?
How did you come up with your business name, is there any special meaning behind it?
I have a son Romeo, so my business name is related with him. I have always loved to sew but free time for my hobby appeared only after the birth of my son. When I registered my shop Romeo was such a sweet little newborn! Now he is three years, as well as my store on Etsy. He is not very fond of soft toys, he’s a fan of cars. Anyway Romeo stays my main inspiration.



Has your Etsy shop become your full time job? If not, would you like it to be?
No. I’m a programmer by profession and I like this job too. Soft toys sewing is my hobby, my relaxation and so on. But it's not a way for making money. And I like that.
But I've been sewing and drawing in all times. When I was a little girl, my mom sewed beautiful dresses for the ladies.   I have make toys of fabric scraps. It was a wonderful time! We did not have the Internet and ready patterns. Only magazine «Burda» and my own ideas.
I love to make toys because they are bulky, cute and cheerful, toys can be hugging, love it!





How would you describe your creative process?
My first rule is to work in a good mood. If I don’t have it, it’s better to do nothing. My toys are cheerful and positive. It’s possible only if crafter is happy. I draw a picture first and then coloring it by crayons. I can experiment with facial expression long time, I like create emotions. Then I make pattern and sew.

Where do you get your inspiration from?
Inspiration sometimes is too much!  I’m usually have a lot of ideas.
I am inspired by my son, nature, beautiful books and cartoons, other crafters. There is amazing Russian cartoon "Hedgehog in the Fog" – highly recommended!

What is your most cherished handmade item?
Its folk dolls “Motanka” made by my aunt. This doll is one of the most ancient of Ukrainian, handmade household items.  It's not just a souvenirs or toy; it is a symbol of the hearth and the guardian of the family. I know this gift was made with the best wishes for me. I believe that they keep safe my family.
I have a greeting card from my friend’s small daughter also. She writes my name on it. This is a very precious gift.



Apart from creating things, what do you like to do?
I love to work in my garden or cook, because I like to be alone sometimes. I love winter sports. My son and I sledding every day last time.

Was there ever any other job you dreamed of having growing up?
I dreamed of being doctor and help people. Some time I wanted to be a fireman. Now I am glad that I have.


Five years from now you will be…
I will be… I do not know. I have many plans, but nothing grand. My goal is to make a lot of cute and funny toys during this time.



Describe yourself in five words: positive, curious, dreamy, active, colorful

Carrying on with the five theme, if I were to turn on your <insert whatever type of music player you use here>, what five artists/songs would I see on your recently played list?
I love rock music and I have two favorite bands: Ukrainian “Ocean Elzy” and Latvians “Brainstorm”.

Lastly, do you have any advice for anyone thinking about opening their own shop or participating in craft shows?
If you can do something handmade, if someone like your crafts - of course you must try!


Elena is currently having a 20% off sale in her shop using code "SALE20"

She is also giving away one of her adorable rag dolls!




a Rafflecopter giveaway