Mixtape issue one

for those of you who missed it.

The Aunty Cookie cover

Mixtape is a new zine about making time for the small things. The first issue was published a few weeks ago by two amazing, energetic and visionary girls Justine and Nichola. Its had some great reviews, including one that mentions my column: "crafty 101 – a great little article about guiding your crafty life."

I was in the right place and the right time, meeting them when they were looking for contributors. As an ex-newsletter-editor and graphic designer I knew what they were up against. I also liked to write and I was embarking on a new journey as a crafter/blogger/designer. I could see it would be a great way to met people too.

So, I sent them a long email filled with ideas for the zine, both its structure and content. Including a pitch about a regular coloumn that became 'crafty 101'. I got a "wow" email reply and an invitation to write a regular column. I was so chuffed. I mean, I knew I could do it, but they had only just met me and didn't know who (or what!) I was!

So that's the tale of the 'crafty 101' column. I've had some great feedback (thanks) and have already drafted the next column. And, if you have any ideas, comments or stories about your own crafty/blogging adventure let me know. (Email address in the photo or just leave a comment.)

Here's the double page spread, p 24.

And here's the column (in case you can't read it in the photo! Or didn't get a copy of issue one. If you did, maybe do some knitting now.)

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getting started

Which one are you?

Category A = I craft, I enjoy it, but I have a day job (sigh)

Category B = I craft, I enjoy it and this is my day job! (I wish…)

Or maybe you fit somewhere in between, like me. A recent redundancy provided the opportunity to dream about, and then explore a category B life. And I’m having an exciting time trying to make this a reality. Its uncharted waters. There’s no guidebook. And I don’t want to stuff it up.

I’ve been consumed by these questions. How do I set up a blog? If I post it, will they come? How do I flickr? How do I meet with others without looking like a stalker on their blogs or flick sites? (I think I may have already made this mistake with Aunty Cookie and six and a half stitches! I’m ok, really.) Would anyone buy from my Etsy shop? Which markets are the best?

Looking for answers, I wondered where to turn? How to begin? Who could help?

I started by looking at the blogs of others who are living the crafty life. (I lie, I stumbled across the six and a half stitches blog when it was listed at the top of the search results after I googled AK Traditions!) Other good starting points are the blogs of 62cherry and nicki-shell, the gals behind this zine. Then just follow your nose…I’ve found everyone very welcoming, friendly and happy to help.

Now, armed with my wealth of experience (four weeks by the time you read this), here’s my step-by-step guide:

1. start poking around the blogsphere for other like-minded crafters

2. upload photos to your flickr site (what, you don’t have one? You’d better get moving)

3. create blog (with witty AND memorable name)

4. write blog posts (once the novelty passes its takes considerable dedication – something Taureans are known for thankfully)

5. decide on your niche and style. This is much easier said than done. (Niche = knitting, quilts, cushions, bags, aprons, artwork, collage, children’s clothes, button necklaces… Style = Japanese aesthetic or whimsical patterns or vintage retro or felt or gorgeous yarns…)

6. Consult, organise and catalogue your stash (only to decide you need to buy more ‘cause you don’t have just the right shade or pattern)

7. Start crafting (you can’t photograph, write about or sell stuff that hasn’t been made yet! I’m having trouble with this step – too many ideas)

8. Set up Etsy shop after you have received an appropriate amount of positive feedback via blog comments or flickr favourites (I’m not sure what amount appropriate is yet, I’ll have to get back to you on that.)

9. Get a market stall (promote via creative blog posts) and make lots of money!

10. Maintain the momentum with daily to-do list: photograph new stuff; upload to flickr; write blog post; check and reply to avalanche of comments on blog/flickr; write up that free pattern to share with others; be inspired and design artistic and creative things; make something beautiful; and send shameless self-promotion to Adorn or ReadyMade!

Don’t you just love how step-by-step guides magically have 10 steps? If I’ve left any out, let me know.

Just in case, I suggest buying a copy of The Crafter’s Companion. The latest issue of Adorn says it’s got a great section on building your own crafting blog. I’m ordering mine now.

Good luck, happy crafting and see you soon.

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Comments

[raspberry]

I'm really pleased that I have now managed to order a copy of issue one from Etsy, can't wait to get it, and then the second issue, yay!!!

[Jodie]

People often marvel at what is involved in running a small business, especially one based on your own craft. I've definitely learnt that organisation is the key....it's just that sometimes I lose the damn key!

[justine]

hey!we are so happy to have you on board :)