Karin of ValhallaBrooklyn started her business with the goal of large wholesale orders to shops throughout the United States and Europe. Once setting up shop on Etsy, she soon discovered she could make wholesale orders and retail orders together in order to support herself. With a new baby on the way, she made the decision to stay small and handmade rather than outsourcing her designs to larger companies. She now finds herself supporting her entire family through the endeavor and sure works the hours to prove it! Keep reading to find out what goes on in Karin’s 80+ hour work week!
When you first started selling on Etsy, did you have dreams or goals of eventually quitting your day job?
Yes, I was in the process of doing just that, but it was for doing wholesale to stores here in the U.S. and in Europe.
What was the deciding factor resulting in pursuing Etsy as your full time job?
I made pretty good sales right away, and decided that I’d rather have this little one-of-a-kind thing rather than starting a big wholesale business and having the bags produced somewhere else.
Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time?
I did do all the practical stuff with business license and setting up the monthly sales and taxes on a sheet; I do all the paperwork myself, too. It’s just me here, and occasionally my husband helps out. I used to make dresses, coats, and also children’s clothing, so I might try those ideas out again if time ever allows for it!
What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What’s your best marketing tip?
Word of mouth, and giving my cards to anyone who asks. I know people who make postcard size flyers with pictures and info on front and back and leave these at local coffee houses and hang outs.
When I lived in Brooklyn, that seemed to be a very successful way for many artists to get their stuff out there. You can also advertise for open studios, etc. I stay away from this as I work from my private home.
Get yourself a nice webpage, do mailing lists, blogs, etc.
Would you walk us through what a typical workday might entail?
I do different steps on different days.
- Sometimes I’ll cut out bags and linings three days in a row, and then the next couple of days it’s all sewing. I do most work in the morning and then again in the afternoon.
- I have zippers on long rolls, so I often get my husband to help cut and fix the ends on these.
- I work every day. I try not to, but it always ends up that way, unless we are away.
- I have my studio in our house so it’s really hard to “ignore” the fact that’s it’s there and that there’s always stuff to be done.
- At the beginning of each month I take a whole day for paperwork and deal with numbers from the previous month.
What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?
No boss! Vacation and days off whenever you please, I get to sleep in if I like, and no one tells me what to do. I wouldn’t change it for the world and I don’t know If I could ever go back to a 9-5 job. I’m pregnant right now and the first 3 months it was VERY hard to get myself in motion in the morning. I remember thinking: “How would I have dealt with a regular job? I would have fallen asleep all the time and been highly unproductive.”
I do miss the social aspect of a regular job: this is pretty lonely, and I’m here all day by myself. I also miss weekends being weekends: you’re off and don’t have to worry about anything work related. When we go on vacation I still think about the shop everyday; after all, I’m the seamstress, designer, accountant, customer service, shipping and packaging guy, leather hide shopper, cleaning lady, etc. I don’t lie when I say I work 80 hours a week most weeks.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself, knowing what you know now?
I sometimes wish I’d done this with a couple of other people. I see that some Etsy stores are 2-3 people owning a shop together where they split the work. It’s pretty overwhelming doing this alone; I get a lot of requests for custom work and often have to say no. There’s just not enough time if I have to live a normal life on the side. Also, get a studio away from your home, unless you have incredible self-discipline and “close the shop” at 5 pm every day. I never get to do that: I often sew till way after midnight.
What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year?
In these difficult financial times I’ll be happy even if sales go down just a little. I also have other projects up my sleeve in the creative genre which I will jump to if next year should be disastrous!
Thanks to Karin for sharing her story and business with us! Check out the related items below to see some of her work.
You can find some of our previous Quit Your Day Job posts here.
180 comments
Sign in to add your ownpiddix says:
Oh so exciting. I love love love the "Quit Your Day Job" series. And those bags are amazing. Thanks for sharing everyone.
3 years ago
futurowoman says:
Karin is amazing!!!! She made a beautiful handbag for me, and I simply LOVE IT!!!!! She's a very talented designer, an expert maker, and a super-awesome customer service person! She's exactly the kind of person I love buying from here on Etsy. :)
3 years ago
LaireMarie says:
These bags are just lovely!!! Truly unique... My dream would be to quit my 9 to 5 and just focus on creating new things... Congrats on achieving your dreams! :D
3 years ago
lulularue says:
I'm not usually a 'bag lady' but I have been admiring Karin's work for months here on Etsy! Thanks so much for the insights!
3 years ago
MartinePetra says:
Love these stories, always inspiring!
3 years ago
proletariatbags says:
I've admired this shop before, but wow! Terrific insight and inspiration. Thanks for the interview!
3 years ago
purplelemondesigns says:
These bags are gorgeous! Thanks so much for sharing your story.
3 years ago
replicca says:
Congratulations, Karin! I'm a huge fan and hope to treat myself one of these days!!
3 years ago
KrazyFashion says:
WOW! Such an unbelievable women! I envy you. :) I wish I could help in some sort of way though. I hope the baby comes out healthy and perfect. My best wishes and hugs go out to you and your business. :D
3 years ago
alibli says:
Congratulations! I can't really afford your pieces these days... but I'll keep an eye on you! Good luck!
3 years ago
pinkpurse says:
Your bags are fabulous! Thank you bunches for sharing your insights, great story!
3 years ago
LittleMamasDesigns says:
Great article, and of course, great bags!
3 years ago
olivebrown says:
thanks for this peek into karin's world. i love her bags and check her shop quite often...(if only my budget would allow!) ...loving the pocket organizer/clutch! (ever thought of doing a removable wrist strap??)
3 years ago
EJPcreations says:
Good story!!!
3 years ago
art2theextreme says:
Very awesome bags and great feature!
3 years ago
isleofmuse says:
Oooo divine bags! Congrats on achieving your dream of being your own boss and on your next journey to motherhood.
3 years ago
edithandlulu says:
"I also miss weekends being weekends: you're off and don't have to worry about anything work related." Funny, one minute people say they love the freedom of being their own boss and then they say something like the quote above. I've noticed this in several of these interviews.
3 years ago
HomemadeZen says:
congrets on your success!
3 years ago
jamieribisi says:
She was a featured seller in September of this year, wasn't she? Nice to read her story again. Beautiful work.
3 years ago
beachhouseblues says:
Really beautiful bags!
3 years ago
rosetung says:
love your style, your outlook! inspiring!
3 years ago
anakristian says:
nice and inspirational
3 years ago
mashulu says:
Geez...I need to get one of these "husband" thingies for real. They seem to come in handy, lol. I live for this series!
3 years ago
KalliopeJewelry says:
Gorgeous bags! Congratulations and best wishes for continued success! Thanks for the article, many small business owners work long hours and multitask jobs. Good luck!
3 years ago
shopgoodgrace says:
Such a great article! I've long admired the work of ValhallaBrooklyn. Congrats to Karin!
3 years ago
BluCille says:
Neat and modern.
3 years ago
aromaticbodyoils says:
I love your bags, they have that Balenciaga Le Dix appeal, but much much better! Your shop rocks!
3 years ago
HairPetals says:
I love love your bags. Congrats on your success!
3 years ago
Cooked says:
your bags are gorgeous~
3 years ago
DeborahVoizin says:
How inspiring and exciting! Congratulations!!!
3 years ago
embellishedlife says:
Definitely one of my favorites. I just can't pick the one I want!
3 years ago
lynncyrart says:
Gorgeous bags!!! Congrats on your success!! :)
3 years ago
CutieDynamite says:
Gorgeous bags! I LOVE reading this series!!
3 years ago
surly says:
Beautiful bags! Well done!... and best of luck with the new baby!
3 years ago
soapco says:
these bags are amazing - I can't believe they're handmade - they look so incredible!!! :)
3 years ago
tomonster says:
Awesome story and beautiful bags!! Love it!! I love reading this series!! Someday, I hope I can quit my dayjob too!!!
3 years ago
jadewicks says:
I totally believe that having a 'studio' outside your home is the best way to go. Putting on all the hats in regards to the business makes it really hard to make time for life outside of work. I wish you luck in dealing with this and am just in awe of the amazing craftsmanship your bags seem to have. Congrats to you!! :)
3 years ago
LJAPhotography says:
what a clever lady, stunning ! Well done! and good on you MaryMary for writing about such inspiring stories. I am hoping one day etsy will give more of us more freedom, esp those who want to be with their loved ones when they are little . Laura x
3 years ago
NattyFramebyPY says:
Your bags are very beautiful and chic! It's amazing that you could handle numerous heavy tasks alone. Best Wishes to you, your family and the new baby. Wish you for even more success to come. :)
3 years ago
JustAnotherDay says:
beautiful creative bags. they look so yummy!
3 years ago
desirapesta says:
i have one of these bags and no one believes me it was handmade. love it!
3 years ago
teepetals says:
She is just FABULOUS!!!!
3 years ago
1337art says:
I enjoy reading this series - thank you for bringing it into existence1
3 years ago
1337art says:
existence! (that is.) Kudos to you for doing this yourself with all of that hard work!
3 years ago
ClareBare says:
Even though I have several bags, I ALWAYS use my valhalla bag- I get so many compliments when I wear it! I think it's amazing that you're as productive as you are- keep up the good work! Congratulations on the baby too! Soon you'll have a little helper in your studio :)
3 years ago
Vanessa says:
I seriously covet those bags.
3 years ago
BellaTaylor says:
all if have to say is... WOW!!!
3 years ago
loda says:
what a great story. it's always inspiring! best of luck to you and your new addition.
3 years ago
kathleenkrucoff says:
The bags are just awesome. And of course, the story is wonderful. Best wishes for continued success in 2009
3 years ago
JudyB says:
I bought myself one of these bags for Christmas and was so excited. They're even better in person!
3 years ago
IcingOnTheCupcake says:
I LOVE your bags, I have admired them so many times! One day soon I will get one!!!
3 years ago
RubyBeets says:
Love Quit your day job! Congrats on the Success!
3 years ago
pennyglassgirl says:
Love this series, so inspiring!
3 years ago
KnitzAndFeltz says:
What a great article... As an etsy "newbie" I really enjoyed it. Thanks for sharing your inspiration!
3 years ago
theRasilisk says:
I am completely addicted to the "Quit Your Day Job" series. I'm trying to live vicariously through everyone of these hard working folks! Congratulations to those of you who have succeeded!
3 years ago
Happiknits says:
OOOOhhhhh! Love those bags! Thanks for the article Mary :)
3 years ago
horshid says:
She makes lovelybages ; and I dream of such life too;)
3 years ago
juicychristians says:
This is so awesome...I do think she was a featured seller...I love this series!
3 years ago
Artouch says:
Beatiful bags and of course a great story!!!
3 years ago
threepeats says:
The bags are gorgeous and the photos so good I can smell and feel the fine leather!
3 years ago
f2images says:
Great bags. Classic lines and details...yet very original. Beautiful and inspiring.
3 years ago
SimpleTraditions says:
Awesome store! Thanks for sharing your story!
3 years ago
LaCometaLab says:
Wonderful bags... putting them on my wishlist...
3 years ago
lsad says:
Wow! your stuff is great!
3 years ago
mpaperarts says:
Oooooh, I'm savin' up for that Okinawa beauty! Very inspiring and made me feel less guilty about how many hours I work. Thanks!
3 years ago
mossyrockpottery says:
Thanks for the article on "Quit Your Day Job: valhallabrooklyn " I'm a full time potter supporting my family on it for the last 6 years... I'me new to Etsy, but it's catching on quick! I'm really excited, because I usually do 30 craft shows per year and now, from Jan - June there's only a couple. Etsy helps me pay my mortgage during the down time. We used to go into debt in the winter. Thanks for the encouragement of that story. David Willhite Mossy Rock Pottery http://www.mossyrockpottery.etsy.com
3 years ago
charmingladies3 says:
Beautiful bags! Very talented lady!
3 years ago
fortheloveofdesign says:
LOVE her bags... thanks for the story! I always find it interesting how folks get business up and running... Way to go, valhallabrooklyn! Dee fortheloveofdesign textiles http://www.fortheloveofdesign.etsy.com
3 years ago
annarubyking says:
really gorgeous work! congrats on your success!
3 years ago
MyWisteriaCottage says:
These bags really look professional and reading your article I can tell that that is just how you approach your business. Good Luck
3 years ago
melaniefavreau says:
I love my valhallabrooklyn bag! Good luck Karin! I wish you a very Happy New Year 2009 :D
3 years ago
annashoub says:
I have always loved Karin's bags. Thanks for the story. Always nice to get a glimpse into someone else's life.
3 years ago
ArtfulBeginnings says:
Beautiful bags and the story is so very inspiring - thank you for bringing it to us!
3 years ago
punchdesigns says:
Amazing Bags! Very Inspiring and encouraging story as we just started out on our own. Good luck in 2009!
3 years ago
PeridotMoon says:
Thank you for taking the time and consideration to help all of us that are just beginning! Your bags are beautiful!
3 years ago
courtneysamone says:
thanks for sharing your story- you inspire me!!
3 years ago
StitchinStyle says:
Karin your reality is amazing, I love your bags and I'll be keeping an eye out for my favorite. God bless you, your family and your buisness.
3 years ago
lushpebble says:
Nice to read about the woman behind the bags. Best regards.
3 years ago
NitaMaesGarden says:
Oh Karin! Love the bags and your designs are so pretty!Thank you for sharing your story. It shows that one can still make it with a bit of inspiration and hard work. I think I will go to work now. hehe :) Best Wishes to you and your family.
3 years ago
sherrytruitt says:
Best wishes for your growing family and business in the New Year.
3 years ago
mylittlejo says:
Very inspiring article. Awesome bags... Happy New Year and continued success!
3 years ago
blueunicorn says:
Is this a follow up to her Featured Seller article? Too bad the featured sellers articles aren't tagged with user names or we would be able to follow all of her Etsy articles/interviews. It is here if you want to read that interview: http://www.etsy.com/featured_seller.php?featured_user_id=5456402 I'm most impressed with Karin's zipper sewing abilities (I just wrestled with several zippers for Christmas presents). So many zippers on single bags.
3 years ago
smilingbluedog says:
What beautiful bags!! I'm a newbie here so I am glad to see that there are fellow creators out there thriving on Etsy! Way to go Karin & thanks for sharing your story...
3 years ago
stitchcrafter says:
OMG, SUCH sophisticated handbags!! Hard to believe they are "homemade." It blows the term right out of the water. I look thru the bags-n-purses category obsessively, and have never come upon this shop. I'm very grateful to this article for the intro. Impressive and inspiring work.
3 years ago
LushPunk says:
Wow - 80 hours a week! i suppose it wouldn't be too hard when you work late!
3 years ago
Sinta says:
Very impressive ^_^
3 years ago
swellvintage says:
very inspiring! x
3 years ago
Malaikawear says:
Inspiration really :)
3 years ago
BayMoonDesign says:
Great story of success and talent.
3 years ago
infraredstudio says:
I always loved her work. No surprise that your a success. You make a great product.
3 years ago
meoneo says:
hugs! talent abounding. congrads.
3 years ago
mloartwear says:
Great designer! Congratulations on being recognized bt Etsy, you deserve it!
3 years ago
lillianJulia says:
Beautiful, beautiful bags.. its a labor of love. I am going to take up that idea of making postcards and leaving them in the local coffee shops.. what a terrific idea!
3 years ago
bamboobaby says:
Wonderful article. Great bags! Thanks for sharing.
3 years ago
blacksheepmarket says:
i am ready to quite my day job! i need more promotion ideas
3 years ago
kingfishercrafts says:
Bingo! Inspiring story of a true Etsy Badger.
3 years ago
BerlynnDesigns says:
Thank you so much!! Awesome Story! Congrats on the new baby coming! I wish you and your family all the best!
3 years ago
SandisShellscapes says:
These interviews are my favorite thing on Etsy - so very motivating ... now I better get back to work. Have to earn enough to buy one of those gorgeous bags!
3 years ago
celisa says:
hats off to her! i'm glad she stressed the importance of working so much...it's true!
3 years ago
ASTORY says:
It is great to hear how other women (and men!) are becoming successful and independent on the web. I particulary like the how -to, it gives ideas of how to organize oneself into a web-based business. Karin - your bags are absolutely amazing! They sell themselves - they are gorgeous. Thanks for sharing! And thanks to etsy for creating such a wonderful and interactive community and marketplace!!! PS Does etsy host a workshop for quitting your day job? That would be cool. I am pretty new to etsy, so you may have already?
3 years ago
akaisilks says:
exellent story!
3 years ago
BeverlyAnn says:
Hi Karin...thanks for the interview and inspiration! You are living my dream... I've had my own business before and know about the hard work. The difference this time is that I really will love what I'm doing. I love this how-to series. Keep them coming as they are very very helpful. Thanks
3 years ago
kinchi says:
Great and inspiring interview. I've been wanting one of Karins bags for soo long and after this peak into her life I know I'll HAVE to buy one in the new year. Congrats on the baby and I whish you continued success!
3 years ago
SillyDolphinsJewelry says:
So wonderful to read this article! Offers hope for a beginner like me! And those are very lovely bags pictured here.
3 years ago
mattella says:
thanks a lot! You're so inspiring... and it really encourages me and hopefully to others as well. All the best this coming new year!
3 years ago
NYLightMetals says:
From a fellow Brooklynite and Etsy full-timer I can vouch for the 80+ hour work week, though I must admit, nothing beats being your own commander and chief ;) There is something liberating to work in accordance with your own natural ebb and flow of energy....... mine happens to be the wacky 2pm - 2am but that's when my own creative juice is at it's maximum! Congrats Karin on the great success, you are a nice inspiration on what hard work and individual thinking can achieve!!!! Cheers
3 years ago
emilybetti says:
Those bags are gorgeous! What talent! I'll be adding one to my wish list for 2009.
3 years ago
PixieSoap says:
Gorgeous!! Congrats on the upcoming baby! Enjoy.
3 years ago
InuInspirations says:
This was so interesting to read as I am trying to make it on my own as well. It is great to read a success story. Such lovely bags, and congrats on the baby! :)
3 years ago
Bugchairs says:
What a great story! As a new seller on Etsy, Karin's story is very motivating! (She's cute too - I like that) I can't wait to be covered in sawdust full-time! (I make chairs). Keep up the good work!
3 years ago
artbymsr says:
Hi Karin, Love your work. I hope to own one of your bags one day soon. Your story is very inspirational. Thanks for sharing. Wishing all a happy, healthy and very successful 2009! Maria art-by-msr
3 years ago
YasuyoMatsumoto says:
Alo~ha! Karin, I love your way of living. I'm pround of you! Nice bags!
3 years ago
dnash says:
Wow! Cool bags. I would love for my embroidery hobby to take off like that!!
3 years ago
meganstelzer says:
Thank you so much for sharing your information. Great bags. Happy New Year!
3 years ago
newamsterdam says:
Those bags are beautiful, Karin! Good luck with your store and take a few days off during the holidays :) Everytime I read one of the "quit your day job" stories, it inspires me to go out with my camera and look for photo opportunities. How sweet, if you can do what you love to do, for a living... ~ Nico New Amsterdam Photography
3 years ago
barbaragilesjewelry says:
Beautiful Bags! I love these articles. They do inspire and educate. Thank you!
3 years ago
poorpitifulpearl says:
I think I said "amen" like 2o times reading this article. Oh... the self discipline that one needs to not start cleaning the tub..or answer the peksy phone... la la la. the list goes on. I totally felt like I was in Karins world... I also am a full time esty-er with a baby at home... and boy oh boy... can i relate to the 80 hour week. Karin, thank you for sharing... its nice to know I am not alone in the " juggling-efforts" world. Surely your hard work will continue to pay off. I am excited to go and take a gander at your shop. Many Blessings. *Shauna Poor Pitiful Pearl
3 years ago
HouseOnTheHill says:
Please, NEVER quit the "Quit Your Day Job" series! I absolutely love it!!! Although right now I am just a "shopper", it is my ultimate dream to some day sell my creations on Etsy and to perhaps be featured in a "Quit Your Day Job" article. Kudos to all of you who have sucked it up and taken the leap! I wish you much success and live vicariously through you for now. Wishing you continued success, Karin and blessings to you and your new family.
3 years ago
MartaWeaverJewelry says:
I admire the quality and design of your work. As a mom of a 3,4,5,10 and 14yr old and a etsy seller I can certainly relate to the long hours as I attempt to design, clean, cook, design, do laundry, list or re-list, cook, clean etc. etc....Marta
3 years ago
artdecadence says:
...working 80 hours a week!...lol...doesn't sound like fun to me!...love the bags tho and certainly admire your dedication...
3 years ago
JEWELRYBYKRISTI says:
beautiful bags! The quality looks high end! 80 hour work weeks... sounds like me, but half of that is my day job.... encouraging to hear self employment on etsy is possible!
3 years ago
sygnetcreations says:
I can see why you are such a hit. Your bags are delightful. Here is to a happy and healthy baby!! Amanda SygnetCreations
3 years ago
LomaPrietaPottery says:
Inspirational story! Wonderful bags!
3 years ago
theduskyjewel says:
Great article! I'm just in love with your work!
3 years ago
OtisTheWoodDog says:
Very good story....
3 years ago
Quiltngbug says:
Your bags look wonderfull and so soft! Good Luck in your new endeavors in the upcoming year....
3 years ago
thneed says:
Thanks for sharing. Great article and bags too!
3 years ago
kohlerglass says:
Very inspiring.
3 years ago
TheBeadCougar says:
I admire your creativity and dedication..you are an inspiration to all.
3 years ago
sassyteedesigns says:
Your purses are really beautiful. I love the Quit your job stories. Always so inspiring. thank you!
3 years ago
JoyandWhimsy says:
Karin, you make great bags and I admire your work ethic. In regards to your remark about wondering what it would have been like if you had begun your business with partners instead of doing it alone - perhaps you may want to get some interns to help you -- you could put flyers up at schools like FIT or even give this article about yourself to a college advisor who might be able to place someone with you for school credit.
3 years ago
PacoandLupe says:
Karin, I'd like to share a favorite quote: "Think left and think right and think low and think high. Oh, the thinks you can think up if only you try!" (Dr.Seuss) Keep on thinking...
3 years ago
BeckisBoutique says:
Karin, Your bags are goregous. I love your designs. I think it is great you have become so successful. I hope that you find sometime for yourself.
3 years ago
ladaworks says:
I love these Storque articles. Karin your bags are great. I love them all. I have to save some money and then visit your shop.
3 years ago
treasuresupplies says:
Working in a partnership or maybe even a shared studio could be beneficial and allow you to enjoy more of a social aspect. Or possibly hiring a part time assistant for some veriaty...getting more hours of ZZZZ's. I'm possibly just thinnking out loud her as am also dreaming of quitting my day job.
3 years ago
doublebrush says:
I love the Storque stories. I also am working all the time from home and reading about other etsy people makes me feel less alone.
3 years ago
STOLENTHUNDER says:
I recently quit my stressful job of 7 years in the fashion industry to take Stolen Thunder full time, I'm still feeling the stress but it's a different kind, more of an energetic buzz than a total drain. Unlike Karin I have a partner in the venture, it really helps to have 2 heads and 2 pairs of hands when those wholesale orders come rolling in!
3 years ago
FluteTeacher says:
Great article. Thanks for sharing.
3 years ago
FabDecor says:
You make beautiful bags and your story is very encouraging, thanks for sharing.
3 years ago
artsyfingers says:
Beautiful bags.and very hard work congratulation.Thanks for sharing.
3 years ago
HoppittyAngora says:
Your bags are beautiful. I would love to have own one of these. I also work many 16 hours a day like you say the work is at home with me. The days are long I have to care for the bunnies and my children I have 4 at home and them I sit and spin my yarns I'm relaxed when I spin. I really enjoy the dying process. I've been inspired to do my best by you. Thank you for tip like handing out cards to people who ask and the blogs. If you have any other tips on getting customers. please let me know. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with me.
3 years ago
NatoBottoArt says:
I applaud your decision not to out source your work. It would be nice if it could grow into a family business:) There is so much more love put into the work when the creator makes each piece.. Be gentle on yourself and know that if people want your work they WILL be patient. Flavor takes time to blossom. Don't burn yourself out. Ask for help and you shall recieve:)
3 years ago
BlackHorseEmbroidery says:
Thanks for the inspiration! I would love to be able to do the things I love as a way to make a living someday.
3 years ago
wendyhumphreys says:
Love the quitting the day job. You have got to put in 110% if you really want your business to take off. Of course a great product! You nailed it! Love your bags!!!! Continued success! Wendy
3 years ago
VintageClothing says:
It is great that you have found a way to put your talent to use and especially make money in this economy. I wish us all the best for the New Year!
3 years ago
PeppermintDaydreams says:
thanks for sharing! amazing shop!
3 years ago
hoganfe says:
Love this interview!
3 years ago
carlyjocreations says:
Lovely story- discipline is a key element to success and I admire that in all of the 'Quit your day job' sellers. Well done!
3 years ago
realisationcreations says:
Fabulous story! I covet your handbags....one day!
3 years ago
steponitart says:
Great story. Hope to own one of these lovely bags soon.
3 years ago
DeLacyDesigns says:
Enjoyed your story, as so many in this series. Beautiful work. I'm glad your doing something that you love and will allow you to be at home with your new baby.
3 years ago
donnawesterkamp says:
Those bags are great, I'm a fanny pack person, can you design something cute. Can't find anything that looks girly
3 years ago
LollyBopBaby says:
I love your bags. Some day I would love to give one a home here with me! :)
3 years ago
rozzie says:
Hard to resist bags! How inspirational, love your work Karin... can't believe you wear so many hats, seriously good job! I'm from Alberta, Canada... is the Alberta Bag named after our province?? :P
3 years ago
huckleberryhal says:
that's so inspiring and I'm only 16
3 years ago
everydayglory says:
Thank you for sharing your story! Keep up the good and hard work!
3 years ago
yarnlab says:
Beautiful bags and inspiring story!
3 years ago
kellyvanhook says:
thank you for your inspiring story...your work is beautiful! I agree totally with what you said about setting up your studio outside the home...it's hard if you're not disciplined like you should be!!!
3 years ago
lionslair says:
Thanks for the story.
3 years ago
laetitia76 says:
Beautiful bags she is highly skilled. I work freelance and its true that onced you start to work for yourself, you don't want to go back to having a boss. But you do work a lot more. Thanks for the inspiring story.
3 years ago
biancadenise says:
Great story and KILLER bags!!!!
3 years ago
DoOver says:
WOW! beautiful work. i am trying for the dedication part. thanks for these stories.
3 years ago
UnamourdeLilise says:
These bags are amazing!
3 years ago
esmeraldadesigns says:
Gorgeous bags! I LOVE the Quit Your day-job series, it's my fave Etsy read!!!
3 years ago
MirrorImageDesigns says:
Karin your an inspiration and true motivator...can't wait till I can get my stuff started..hopefully sooner than later. Thanks...love the article!
3 years ago
sacredherbals says:
Great story very inspiring! Thank you for sharing.
3 years ago
Leeya says:
wow
3 years ago
anjalehn says:
Its a great and inspiring article..Thanks so much :)
3 years ago
Glitzer says:
absolutely gorgeous post and very inspiring!
3 years ago
noemiah says:
Love your work, great great work and inspiring!
3 years ago
deborahem says:
I have honestly lost count of how many valhalla bags I've purchased! They are absolutely AMAZING and soooo worth every penny. I love every single one of my bags and wallets. Karin is just wonderful!!!!
3 years ago
LotusJewelryThreads says:
I can't believe you made those purses!
3 years ago
JonesyAndCrane says:
Great to hear about this shop! I've been a fan for ages!!!
3 years ago
adorebynat says:
I love reading the Quit Your Day Job articles. Very inspiring. Each successful artist has his/ her own story to tell.
3 years ago
tworavens says:
you're amazing!
3 years ago
nichan says:
I always want to sew this kind of heavier material than cotton...but can't afford the machine... i like your creation...great design b(^.^)
3 years ago
MetroGypsy says:
Great artist! That Egg bag is divine~!
3 years ago
TheCoutureBride says:
Always fun to hear the reality behind all the creation. So much love is put into every bag. I am also pleased to hear your hubby helps! Wow!
3 years ago
OlgasBoutique says:
I love her work!
2 years ago
ethicBioskin says:
Love your works beautiful luxurious bags handmade by Women Artisan what more can you ask ? just Bravo!! I have made the same decision to stay small and handmade rather than use dirty cheap Commercial bases or contract with lab.... I never regret I'm very happy with this proximity with my costumer especially in Etsy and so proud to be a part of something special such as helping and contracting with local farmers for My medicinal herbs...etc..! Completely Fan Certainly I'll orde one! Marion
163 days ago