Who are you and what do you do?:
My name is Beth and I run bluetiedesigns. I sew a ton of things for the home and for dogs! I also like baking when I'm not busy sewing or spending time with friends.
How did you get started in your business?:
My mom used to sell at events years ago, and eventually I felt the draw to make and sell things myself.
Is this a full-time business for you?:
No, I do it part-time so I can spoil my two dogs Welkin Gunther and Radi Jaeger. It also allows me to keep buying fun fabric to make new things for people.
Where do you see your business in 3 years?:
Busy with sales and hopefully having a few
of my items in some local stores. Since everything is made by hand, I can only do so much at a time.
What are some tips or suggestions you would like to offer to fellow makers?:
Be prepared to have some failures, but know that your friends and family can also be your biggest supporters. Don't feel pressured to be successful right away, as things do take time.
What has been your favorite moment since creating your business?:
Having people return to pick up new items, or hearing how the things that they picked up from me are still going strong.
What was your first memory of making something?:
I've been making things for years, ever since my mom helped me sew and do little projects. Before I learned to sew I was helping bake cookies and was soon baking things by myself.
Why did you start working in this craft?:
I used to make costumes as a hobby, and decided to start vending at the events I wore costumes to. Eventually, I did more vending than costuming!
Have you always been passionate about art and design?:
Yes, I went to school for Graphic Design/Art, drew a ton as a kid, have built award-winning costumes, and love to lay out and create things...my Grandparents and my Mom were/are crafty people in different ways. So it was just a matter of time.
What do you think sets your designs apart from others?:
I just have a bit of everything, and everything I make has a purpose. I also just like making things, so hopefully that reflects in the variety of things I make!
What are some inspirations for your work?:
The fun fabric I buy, figuring out ways to use it to make things that people will find helpful to have in their homes. Also being a dog mom and former dog foster means I get to figure out new dog items too.
What motivates you to create?:
I like making things for people to enjoy and that makes them happy. The accomplishment of finishing something, and then having someone have their day made by it existing.
What is your favorite item that you sell?:
Weirdly enough, probably the dog waste bag roll holders. It came out of a want to use up more scraps instead of tossing them away. They're a more fun option than the plastic carriers.
What do your customers love most about your product(s)?:
They're something different and fun, while being able to be used in their everyday life. Or, it's something fun to gift to that friend or family member that can be hard to shop for.
What is the latest thing you have been working on?:
Trying to use up more of my scrap material and keep upcycling items as much as possible. Being more eco-friendly has been a long-term goal of mine.
Will you be featuring any special holiday items?:
Yes. I will have some dog holiday bandanas, winter/Christmas potholders, and whatever else I have the time to squeak in!
Blue Tie Designs