[vc_row][vc_column][vc_message]Niche : Home and Living
Shop link : https://www.etsy.com/shop/BugsGraphics
Webiste : https://bugsgraphics.info/[/vc_message][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Tell us something about yourself, how did you get started, do you consider yourself a crafter, maker, artist…
The year of 1990 Branda Lanyel Kuhler has been born. She takes on the nickname Ladybug, for the first time she said “hi” was outside while a ladybug flew down beside her. Six years later (1996) I was diagnosed with medulloblastoma blastoma. The brain tumor only occurs in children with high IQ’s. I became paralyzed on my left side and found myself incapable to simply dress up my own barbie dolls. I spent most of my time on the computer. I was born an artist, and have always wanted to pursue in the art field. I wanted to combine my strong art skills and computer technology’s well-practiced mind. I found this conclusion in the field of Graphic Design. Breanda Lanyel Kuhler entered the world in the year 1990 bringing bright energy with her. She was an inquisitive little human interested in all the world had to offer. The first time she spoke a comprehensible word was to say “hi” to a ladybug who landed on her blanket in the yard. Ladybug would become the nickname for this unique person. The sixth year of her existence proved challenging with the diagnosis of a brain tumor, medulloblastoma posterior fossa. The unwelcomed intruder only occurs in children of high IQ’s. I was left with temporarily one-sided paralysis (regained most through therapy). The simple task of dressing my beloved barbies became undoable, ergo the computer became my outlet. I was born with inert artist talent and knew an occupation with this skill was something I desired. The opportunity to attend the fine art school presented itself, it was logical to combine my knowledge of computers with my artistic talent. A BFA in Graphic Design was a great decision. I consider myself a bit of a crafter. I did get into jewelry making in my young life but did not find selling the items easy. I consider myself more of an Artist, for I am successful in the area.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”100003839″ img_size=”737×737″ onclick=”link_image” css_animation=”appear” bb_tab_container=””][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”100003838″ img_size=”737×737″ onclick=”link_image” css_animation=”appear” bb_tab_container=””][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”100003837″ img_size=”737×737″ onclick=”link_image” css_animation=”appear” bb_tab_container=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
How did you discover Etsy? Did you have any previous experience in selling handmade products? Why did you start selling online?
I have had non to little experience in selling my handmade, and print on demand products. I hope to learn how to advertise and get my name out there. I started selling online, for I wasn’t selling anything in my small town, or on Facebook. I also as a Graphic Designer have not found a full-time job, after graduation in 2019. I would like to find a little extra income through selling on Etsy, with my original designs. I have many items on Redbubble, but you only get 2% of the profit made.
What products do you sell, what type of materials are used in your creations, how do you design your products, what makes your products stand out?
During school at UCM, I made several Designs from projects given by professors. I had twice if not more art classes than my graphic curses. After graduation outside my little freelance work, I designed a few Illustrations that I believe appeals to little girls, men, and adults. Finding that I am stronger in Illustration rather than my graphic major. I believe my products stand out for the originality being everything outside of the box. The bold use of color and arrangement, also allows me to stand out from the normal crowd.
How was your experience in learning to craft, are you self-taught or did you have a mentor, how long did it take for you to be satisfied with your creations?
I will be adding my jewelry that I have created just 5 years ago. I had given on the dream that I was good at crafting. I am self-taught and plan on getting back in the field. My next project with my vibrant, native clay earrings.
What was your original goal when you opened up an Etsy shop? What impacted your decision to start selling online? Do you consider online selling as a side-job, full-time job, or extra income to pay for your hobby?
NA.
Did you have any fears or reservations before opening up your Etsy shop? Were you worried about profitability or product competitiveness? What are some concerns and questions you had before you got started? How did you overcome them?
I did choose Etsy for being one of the cheaper platforms. Though I also choose Etsy for being one of the more popular platforms. I got the portfolio that I use in my “Graphic Design Senior Show” I still use it for interviews. I also enjoy being inspired by my other crafters on here. I have two books on how crafters started their own online craft business starting with Etsy.
How long did it take for you to get your first sale? Did you ever think you would make a lot of sales in the first year? What was the goal you were hoping for? How many sales an average you get per week?
I have yet to be successful in selling my products. I have spent way more on Facebook coupons advertising. For now, my Covid sticker is the only item that is selling.
Do you have a job outside Etsy? If not, are you able to commit full-time to online selling? How does your typical day look like? How do you manage time?
Due to not yet finding a full-time graphic job, I took on a part-time job at McDonald’s. Yes, I believe I commit to full-time selling online. As a Graphic Designer, I have worked with many people around the United States. I am familiar with working odd hours, and working till 3 am in the morning. I am great at managing time and organizing projects and orders.
How does your manufacturing process look like for e.g. your best selling product? Do you create products ahead of the orders? Do you customize your products, if so how? What are the tools that you are using in the manufacturing process?
Many of my current items in my shop are a third party (Printify) The mask I sold to a friend came sooner than expected. I am used to calling other business and sorting out additional arrangements or issues. The stickers, jewelry, name tags, labels, and more to come are my customized products. I create on-demand, though as a Graphic Designer I get the job done on or before the due date.
What is the biggest impact on the profitability of your shop? How expensive are the materials you use? How do you price your products?
The materials I use do not cost in quality but rather in Quantity. For example for a painting… you take the cost of paint, multiplied by the hours. With that said I will be adding the successful paintings from school. For jewelry, I take the cost of the bead, and times that by 2. For the Third-party it’s difficult to make a decision due to the already set price. Then adding what I would like to make without making the price unreasonable.
What inspires you when you’re creating? How do you get ideas for new products? What are some methods or tools you use to get creative?
Vision boards. Pinterest. Instagram.
Do you ship your product internationally? How do you handle postage pricing? What is the average time it takes from the order to the delivery? Do you use free shipping? If so, why? How do you package your products?
Shipping my own items has never been a problem. I do have one dilemma. My sticker has been bought from 3 people from out of the United States. I have had to refund them for shipping can be 23 -80. I do give them a red bubble link.
Are you worried about competitors? Does it impact your business in any way? If there are a lot of similar products, how do you make your own stand out?
I am not worried about the competition.
How do you deal with disputes or bad ratings/feedback? How do you manage presale and post-sale communication and customer satisfaction?
When I graduated from UCM. I began freelancing through a network known as “UpWork”. Working out agreements with design can be difficult. I sometimes would not get paid for the hours I worked. Claims deputies would have to make until I and the client came to an agreement.
Has selling on Etsy changed your life in any way? If so, how? Did you ever think you would get this far with your shop? Have you ever been stressed about dealing with customers and manufacturing products? How did you deal with that?
NA, I do greatly appreciate the opportunity Jasmin has given me. It warms my heart to know I have one big admiration. 😀
How important is social media for your shop? What are some common tactics you use to promote your products? Do you spend money on ads outside of Etsy? How do you generate excitement/hype around your products?
As a Graphic Designer, I believe Social Media is very important. I have posted my products on Facebook groups and market place. I do not spend money on outside ads. I would agree I need to get some videos going in my store.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”100003836″ img_size=”737×737″ onclick=”link_image” css_animation=”appear” bb_tab_container=””][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”100003835″ img_size=”737×737″ onclick=”link_image” css_animation=”appear” bb_tab_container=””][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”100003834″ img_size=”737×737″ onclick=”link_image” css_animation=”appear” bb_tab_container=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
What are some things you don’t like about Etsy? If you could talk to the CEO of Etsy what recommendations would you tell him to improve sellers and customer satisfaction?
I wish that I had more options in regards to organizing my store. I would like my shoppers to be able to organize items by new to old, or best selling. Having a setting for some items to only be bought in the US would be nice.
What are some things you did to set your shop for success on Etsy? What is one lesson you learned the hard way?
I learned that I need to have a good selling income, before posting coupons or Etsy ads. I was not aware I was being charged.
What piece of advice would you give to new or established sellers or those considering selling on Etsy? How can they avoid beginner mistakes?
I do not have any advice but will greatly appreciate any advice to improve my selling.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
