Yarn, fabric or beads and strings, these are the things that create magical things. Okay, maybe not magical but these pieces can be used to make different creations. If you know how to use them then you know how to create magic.
Many creatives are great with their hands, like making baby clothes, burp cloths, and even bows. This is the case with our featured entrepreneur, Amanda, from Chi Fashionista.
Not only has she created two little human beings but has also created a business where she can work from home and make some income to help support her family. Let’s meet Amanda.
*This post may contain affiliate links
Tell us a little about yourself.
Hi! I’m Amanda Saulter. I call myself the Creative Hobbyist because I collect hobbies. I am like a “Jill of all Trades” in the world of creative things. I like to try new things and I’m Pinterest OBSESSED.
I am mommy to two little humans who keep me pretty busy but when I’m not playing with them (and sometimes even when I am) I’m trying out something new from Pinterest or creating something awesome.
Would you consider yourself an introvert or extrovert? Why?
A little of both.
I am a little shy at first but once you get to know me the extrovert comes out. I’m a bit of an observer so I like to people watch and get to know others before I put myself out there.
Tell us about your products/services? How did you come about this idea? How did you begin?
Chi Fashionista initially began as a doggie clothing line. I loved making clothes for my little Chihuahuas but as my Chis got older and grumpier they liked dressing up less and less but luckily my family expanded and I landed myself into baby accessories.
I came up with the most of my products out of necessity. I was finding things in motherhood difficult (Dropsy game, Messy eaters, changing pad issues) or challenging and I created a product to make it easier and simpler.
Did you have startup costs? What were they?
I wouldn’t say I had typical business start-up costs because I was given my sewing machine as a college graduation present and I gradually began collecting the fabric over the years of sewing.
But there were costs involved I just choose to grow my business slowly spreading out the costs as much as possible.
How long have you been in business? When did you start seeing income?
I have been working my business on and off since 2009. I have started and stopped and as I said changed directions during that time. I finally dedicated to my business in 2016 so I could stay home with my kids.
I wouldn’t say that I have started seeing a true income yet. I am still growing and working my business to see what selling techniques is going to work best. Last year, I did a lot of more costly in person shows that didn’t really net the profits I was hoping for.
Did you have any bumps on the road at any time? How have you overcome setbacks?
I have had many bumps and set backs. I just try to remind myself why I started this business (to do something I love) and why I believe in it so much (I truly want to help moms have less headaches while dealing with their children) and what it can provide for my family.
Did you self-teach, took courses or learned from someone else?
I would say I’m mostly self-taught. Although, my grandmother was an avid sewist. She only wore her handmade clothing.
She had quit sewing by the time I was old enough to learn. I did take some costume design classes in college which introduced me to the sewing machine but designing and most of my techniques are self-taught.
How do you come up with the many different pieces/services?
My kids are my inspiration. Honestly. I hate how cliche that sounds but it’s true. They do something and it either annoys me and I design something to make it better or I love it and it inspires me to make something different.
Sometimes I take to Pinterest for ideas of what types of things are popular at the time to see if I can put my own spin on things but mostly it’s my kids.
For many that are thinking of becoming entrepreneurs, what advice would you give them?
I would tell them that everyone can do it but it’s more work than you’re imagining and it will take longer than you think to bring home real profit.
How do you balance work and life?
I don’t. I mean I try. But I always feel like I’m missing out on something. If I’m not with my kids I’m working and if I’m working I’m not with my kids.
I want to do so much with my kids but I also want to do so much with my business and there just aren’t enough hours in the day to get it all done.
Any additional comments or advice?
Take it one day at a time. Everyone starts somewhere. Just remind yourself that if you can dream it you can do it.
Conclusion
If you love creating with your hands and have a passion, start paving your future by starting now. As Amanda mentioned, “everyone starts somewhere.” Use your creativity to help others, inspire others or to be the solution for someone’s obstacles.
Amanda has been kind enough to offer my readers a 20% discount on her shop. Visit her at her links below to make sure you don’t miss on new goodies and get a gift for your little one. Discount code below:
To visit Amanda:
Etsy | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram
Use coupon code “FF20March” to get 20% discount on her shop. Expires on 3/31/2017. Don’t miss out on this special and let her know Gloria sent you!
*This post contains affiliate links or ads and I’ll earn a small commission if you shop through them. My family and I will greatly appreciate this as this is how we help provide income to our household so we can continue bringing you amazing content.
