Renegades - Handbags and Rockstar Accessories

Renegades is an Etsy shop run by Stephanee from Indiana. Stephanee says "Renegades designs are made to showcase your individuality and creativness in a world that would like us all to just grow up a bit."

How long have you been making the craft/art that you sell? What started your interest in it? How did you learn?

I remember as a kid getting the craft kits for Christmas. Make your own candle or friendship bracelet... I did not care about any other gifts. I just wanted to make something. My drive to create has always been like that. I have tried just about every craft I can get my hands on. Right now I am making (and selling) purses, wallets and accessories.

What made you decide to turn your art/craft into a business? What support or inspiration have you had along the way?

For the past several Christmas's I have not had much money for gifts, so I made them. Those gifts were cherished much more than gifts I had spent tons of money on. And with a walking billboard like my mom, the orders came rolling in. My dad had always inspired me to think outside the corporate box. He has been my inspiration to keep going!

Do you have any other hobbies / interests?

As a hobby I will find a new craft or a new technique. All of my free time is spent creating something.

How long have you been selling on Etsy?

Do you sell full or part time?I have been a member of Etsy for 2 years. I have only recently started adding items to my store and promoting. I have a 9-5, but I would give it up in a heartbeat for a full time Etsy store.

Do you sell outside of Etsy? If so where?

I only take custom orders outside of Etsy. But I am determined to start the craft fair circuit this spring. I'm also building up inventory to take to the brick and mortar shops in my hometown.

What is your favorite way to promote your Etsy store?

I think blogging is fun. I stress about it a lot because I am afraid I am not too interesting. I do not even know if anyone reads my ramblings... but I will still write. My mom is my favorite way to promote! All I have to do is make her something and she will tell everyone she knows!

Do you have a blog? If so what is your blog address, and what do you feature / write about?

http://renegadesdesigns.blogspot.com/ So I'm supposed to have a theme? No... I just talk about whatever pops in my head, mostly just stuff about my shop.

Where do you hope to see your business / Etsy store in the future?

I am hoping to grow and evolve until I can do this as a part time job.

What is something that you want to make SURE you do in 2009?

I am going to promote the crap out of my stuff. I promise to go to one craft fair. I also vow to approach 2 shops to consign my items.

What is the thing that you are most proud of?

I am most proud of my work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. My dad instilled that in me at a very young age. I have always wanted to work hard and work for myself!

What do you wish you had more time for?

There is never enough time for marketing. But honestly I wish I had more time to just dabble... and make random things for no reason... just because they make me smile.

What is your favorite part of the day?

My favorite time of the day is the morning drive to work. I commute 30 min each way. It gives me a meditation time to reflect on the day ahead, what I have done and what I need to do. I usually get most of my great ideas during that time. The sunrise always greets me.

Please go check out her cute shop and tell her that Mrsfatface sent you! http://www.renegades.etsy.com/