End of Zippster?

For a while now I've been thinking of getting out of the 'making crafts for profit' business, because quite honestly, it was only ever meant to be a hobby with a very small chance of making a profit. Which I don't. After purchasing supplies, making prototypes, photography and creating listings, paying for the listings, and fees for sales I'm lucky if I break even. And that's not counting my time. I have a pretty busy and fulfilling life, and any sewing I do is to sell and I don't seem to have the time to enjoy sewing for myself, and that's what I'd rather be doing.

So, I'm selling most of my purse making supplies. 

I still have some items for sale at Artisans at Work but won't be restocking. And I'm not quite sure yet to do with my Etsy shop - most of what I sell there is buttons, anything larger and the high cost of shipping is a deterrent.

I have some new fabric and patterns picked out for new projects, which I'm looking forward to working on - it's been a while since I've made something for myself!

New Store in East York

Last December, my local residents' association in East York partook in an initiative to fill empty storefronts with holiday pop-up shops. The end result being that there has been some rejuvenation in the area, including a new store and arts centre called Artisans at Work. It will be a place for artisans to create, market and sell their works, and also a place for classes, workshops and shows. My Zippster items are available at the store, which will be having a grand opening event soon. Stay tuned for pics and more info!

Zippster now at Wisedaughters!

I'm very excited and pleased to announce that a selection of my goods are now available at Wisedaughters Craft Market in Toronto's Junction neighbourhood. The store features a variety of handmade items by local artisans and they also put on workshops and other events. The Junction neighbourhood is full of fantastic boutiques and cafes, I suggest a visit this part of the city if you've never been.

New online selling venue

So I've decided to try out Artfire, another online selling venue for handmade items that is gaining in popularity. The terms and set-up is different from Etsy. I'm using the same shop name, Karen's Creations. I've just spent the last 3 hours setting up my shop, so let's hope I get some sales!