Kari Chapin, author of The Handmade Marketplace, is visiting Etsy and bringing four of the book’s crafty contributors with her. We’re excited to host the next event in Etsy’s Speaker Series with The Handmade Marketplace panel on April 1, 2010 at 7 p.m. ET at the Etsy Labs in DUMBO, Brooklyn, NY. Be sure to RSVP here.
Not able to attend the live event? We’ll be broadcasting the panel live in Etsy’s online workshops, the Virtual Labs.
Read on for more info from the speakers visiting Etsy in April.
Kari Chapin, a.k.a. chixon
Kari has spent the past 15 years in the professional world, experimenting with marketing, publicity, freelance writing, community relations and styling. For someone who spends a great deal of time with artisans and craftspeople, it wasn’t surprising that one day a compact fluorescent light bulb went off above her head, and she sat down and wrote the best-selling The Handmade Marketplace.
Photo of Kari and her book by Eric Nixon
Kari: “The idea for my book, The Handmade Marketplace, came to me a few years ago when I was working in an adorable home goods boutique as the manager and buyer. The shop already had a strong focus on handmade goods when I came on board, but I saw an opportunity to add even more to my tiny shop’s shelves.
I started contacting Etsy sellers asking if they would be interested in selling some of their goods in my store, and lo and behold, these amazing sellers had a lot of questions for me. I found myself on a weekly basis writing up long, descriptive emails, guiding these fine folks regarding the ins and outs of working with a brick and mortar store.”
Jennifer Judd-McGee, a.k.a. swallowfield
A mixed-media artist and illustrator living in Portland, Maine, Jennifer shows her work in galleries across the U.S. and in Canada and does freelance editorial work for magazines.
Jennifer: “I love that I make and sell things directly to people all over the world. I love being able to enclose a little note with something I made and have and it go right from my hands into the recipient’s hands. It feels kind of lovely and old-fashioned, even though it is only possible due to high-powered new technology.”
swallowfield‘s Renegade booth, photo by Kari Chapin
Betsy Cross, a.k.a. betsyandiya
Portland-based Betsy is an oil and charcoal artist and a photographer, but she is mostly known for being an amazing jewelry designer. Betsy and I met each other a few years ago, and I’m not surprised by her current success. She is as gutsy and friendly and fresh as her designs.
Betsy: “My retail exists because I met an awesome jewelry designer, and asked how in the heck she has so many Etsy sales. She said one word (actually two): ‘My blog.’ Was she ever right!”
Photo by Betsy Cross
Liz Smith, a.k.a. madeinlowell
Liz runs her business out of a studio in an old textile mill in Lowell, Massachusetts, where she creates felted and polymer clay accessories and jewelry for craft shows and her Etsy shop.
Liz: “I love making and selling things! This is what I’ve always wanted to do. I’m living my dream and giving others a little bit of happiness with each thing I make. That’s just bliss.”
Photo by madeinlowell
Kim Werker, KimWerker.com
Kim is from Vancouver, Canada and is the former editor of Interweave Crochet magazine, the founder of CrochetMe.com, and the author or co-author of six books, including Crocheted Gifts, Crochet Me, and Teach Yourself Visually Crocheting. I “met” Kim online, through Twitter. She is an excellent resource when it comes to the topics of crafting and technology.
Kim: “Authenticity is the single most important currency in online life. Share your process, your products, your relevant work experiences. Follow the Golden Rule, and treat other people as you want to be treated.”
Photo from Crochetme.com
Remember, this event is free, but you must RSVP here.
98 comments
Sign in to add your owngirltuesdayjewelry says:
April 1st? Hmmm...maybe I could make this event. I'd love to attend.
2 years ago
sweetcarolinadesign says:
That looks like an interesting book. I think I might have to get a copy! Thanks for the info!
2 years ago
lovelygifts says:
Great article! Look's like a must have book!
2 years ago
VintageHoneysuckle says:
Sounds like an interesting and informative meeting! I need to find that book, too. :)
2 years ago
TheIntuitiveGarden says:
I'm reading the book now! It's such a great resource! =)
2 years ago
BambuEarth says:
What an interesting group of artists! I will join in on the fun April 1st!
2 years ago
frenchtoastfriday says:
If only Kuala Lumpur and Brooklyn were within driving distance, I would so be there.
2 years ago
BirdonWireStudio says:
I'm definitely going to get a copy of that book!
2 years ago
pinestreetphoto says:
great article. thanks for the inspiration :)
2 years ago
ShopClementine says:
This will be simul-cast in the Labs, right? Looks like a great panel!!
2 years ago
frenchtoastfriday says:
If only Kuala Lumpur and Brooklyn were within driving distance, I would so be there!
2 years ago
thelightningbolts says:
I'm waiting for my copy to arrive any day now! So excited to join the Lab!
2 years ago
LittleWrenPottery says:
I was just thinking about buying this book last night!
2 years ago
Ayca says:
Great article !
2 years ago
atamayka says:
I bought it and love it! It's well structured, easy to read (or gulp like I do) and I personally love the questions and straight answers from the artists and crafters. Whether you sell in internet, shops or do craft shows, it really covers everything. I haven't opened my shop yet, but with such great and detailed tips, I think I'll be well prepared as soon as I finish production. Wish me luck!
2 years ago
eurolenscape says:
This book sounds like a must have. Thanks for the info!
2 years ago
bylynnkrestel says:
is this going to be available online?? looks really great!!
2 years ago
ValerieTyler says:
Oh I wasn't aware of this book. Now I feel compelled to check it out.
2 years ago
NomadCraftsSupplies says:
Wonderful! This sounds like a good read! Thanks so much! I love all of the picks too!
2 years ago
polkadotmagpie says:
Looking forward to reading it.
2 years ago
TheMulberryButton says:
Sounds like a good handbook-even for beginners.
2 years ago
vintagemaison says:
Looks a good, well thought out read. If only I had the talent to make anything! Oh well, I love vintage too...
2 years ago
candacejean says:
Oh how I wish I could attend the event! I'm sure the book is just wonderful; I'll have to go find a copy. Thank you!!
2 years ago
SaritaBaby says:
The book is amazing, it is a must buy and must read!!!!
2 years ago
jewelrybyjackie says:
This sounds like it will be a truly wonderful event! I wish I were closer! I will be looking up a copy of the book ~ I have just been asked to sell my wares in a local shop... I'm so excited!!
2 years ago
craftylittlecritters says:
Looks like a great book!!
2 years ago
pasin says:
Wonderful
2 years ago
YouAreYou says:
Great article...oh man I would love to be there!
2 years ago
ArtisticIntentions says:
Great information! Lovely items!!
2 years ago
GraydaysPrintShop says:
How fortuitous- I just saw this book as a suggested book on my amazon account last night will have to get me a copy!! So inspiring and thanks for sharing. And hooray for swallowfield-fellow portland Mainer!
2 years ago
ohbabydotcom says:
Great article. Book looks very informative. Love the egg ornament and little brown bunny!
2 years ago
silkstory says:
Thanks for info! I would love to have this book one day! Thank you girls for anoncment!
2 years ago
TheLoudLion says:
cant wait to read it! thanks for letting us know about it! xo
2 years ago
megrnc says:
So wish I could be there!
2 years ago
sonyarasi says:
Thank you for the great article!
2 years ago
littlealouette says:
AWESOME> I love these folks!
2 years ago
saintesmariesjewelry says:
great article!! thank you!
2 years ago
LaurieCoyleDesigns says:
Ooh I so wish I could join you ladies for this event! I'm sure it will be the super-awesome-est of the decade, and we are all crazy if we miss it!
2 years ago
megrnc says:
What a great addition to Etsy's Speaker Series. Beyond being a super cute and attractive book, Kari's Handmade Marketplace will no doubt be the craft/indie business bible for at least the next 10 years. Questions about business cards? Social marketing? Selling wholesale or consignment? It's all there, plus cute illustrations, stories told in the first person by today's most promising artists and crafters, and bits of information crammed into every nook and cranny. I get bored easily and rarely read a reference book cover to cover, but this one I did and have gone back and read parts twice. Highly recommended for those starting out in the business and to those with experience (I've been selling for over 5 years and found loads of good tips in Kari's book). This book should be on every crafter's bookshelf. And getting to hear Betsy Cross, Jennifer Judd-McGee, Liz Smith and Kim Werker? I would so be there if lived closer to NYC.
2 years ago
ShebboDesign says:
wow, book looks very informative
2 years ago
uhuui says:
Soo placing my order on amazon today!
2 years ago
IlluminatedPerfume says:
Awesome! Wish I still lived in Brooklyn...sigh.
2 years ago
gemagenta says:
OOOOoohh! that book looks nice!! I want to read it!!
2 years ago
3squares says:
wish i could be there! can't wait to check out the book.
2 years ago
DornickDesigns says:
I purchased this book initially because Emily Martin [The Black Apple] did some of the illustrations and I simply adore her and her work. But then, when the book arrived, I could not put it down. I've been selling my jewelry on the internet for 6 years now and this little 210 page book would have been worth it's weight in gold to me back then. What has taken me years to figure out on my own, is within the charming little pages of this book. A MUST have for anybody making and selling art and crafts these days. I would highly recommend this book. You will not regret purchasing it, I can promise you that. The references and links alone are worth the cost of the book. You'll love it ~ I promise!
2 years ago
DornickDesigns says:
I purchased this book initially because Emily Martin [The Black Apple] did some of the illustrations and I simply adore her and her work. But then, when the book arrived, I could not put it down. I've been selling my jewelry on the internet for 6 years now and this little 210 page book would have been worth it's weight in gold to me back then. What has taken me years to figure out on my own, is within the charming little pages of this book. A MUST have for anybody making and selling art and crafts these days. I would highly recommend this book. You will not regret purchasing it, I can promise you that. The references and links alone are worth the cost of the book. You'll love it ~ I promise!
2 years ago
TipieTipieTop says:
sounds intersting, wish I lived in brooklyn too :(
2 years ago
minnalee says:
This is a fantastic book - tons of advice for anyone who has an Etsy store or is thinking about opening one. Kari really walks you through all the steps and the "been there, done that" anecdotes from the contributors are really helpful.
2 years ago
HandmadeByKat says:
I just bought the book. Can't wait to read it!!! What really prompted me to buy the book, in addition to the fabulous contributors and article above, is the comments here from other Etsy sellers. I think this will be one reference book that I actually finish and go back to.
2 years ago
katherynmd says:
Would love to be able to live closer but thank you for the awareness of the book! Sounds great.
2 years ago
OwlandMouse says:
I'll have to pick this book up!
2 years ago
Bezencilla says:
I am looking forward to have this book, but I can't find the shop to get it. Any help?
2 years ago
Bezencilla says:
I am in Amsterdam, so maybe it is not available in here?
2 years ago
blackviolets says:
I have the book and it's a great resource for every aspect of selling your wares.
2 years ago
jodieflowers says:
Awesome!
2 years ago
TessaKim says:
oooo I will need to get that book!
2 years ago
maggiemaevintage says:
nice article.
2 years ago
craftpile says:
wish I could be there!! I want the book, too :)
2 years ago
tundraberry says:
I just finished reading the book a couple of weeks ago and I love it! Awesome information and very detailed! I would recommend it to anyone!
2 years ago
lifeofcolors says:
It's a bit far to commute to Brooklyn...
2 years ago
myzoetrope says:
So awesome! I'll be there!
2 years ago
ArtsyTartsyJewels says:
What great timing! I just ordered this book two days ago. :)
2 years ago
Vanessa says:
Bezencilla - it's always a good idea to ask your local book shop to get it for their store. Otherwise, you could buy it online.
2 years ago
DeborahVoizin says:
I want this book!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2 years ago
Sammis2shoes says:
Yep another book to add to my already loaded shelf. But ... it sounds worth it right? :) Thanks for the heads up for a fantastic book release etsy.
2 years ago
sweettidings says:
I need to get that book too! Sounds very helpful!
2 years ago
RoyalRuby says:
This book is amazing!! Very informative, and fun to read too! I always have it in my bag and refer back to it often!!! Thank You, Kari Chapin!!!
2 years ago
ilovehearts says:
I have the book on order in the UK. Can't wait to read it... x
2 years ago
littleseeta says:
great article! might just have to pick up a copy of the book too =) thanks!
2 years ago
julessabjewelry says:
I will definitely have to check out this book. I'm huge on resources and I love learning new bits of information. If I lived anywhere NYC I would be in attendance!
2 years ago
autumnray09 says:
Ya know, its funny how I came across this article after I returned from the bookstore reviewing the handmade marketplace book. I reviewed it and five other craft marketing books. It's definitely a book to have in your library. May you all be successful!!
2 years ago
compassrosedesigns says:
So great to find this article here! I bought this book in Phoenix, while visiting family. Great book, so great in fact that I wanted to find a quiet place to read while the others did the visiting.
2 years ago
bynichole says:
i got this book about a month ago, I thought it was great and have passed it on to a friend. I will be in the VL for sure!!
2 years ago
sweaterheads says:
Great article! Wish I could be there to hear her speak. I will get the book though. Sounds like a great read.
2 years ago
ZurDesigns says:
Just ordered it from my local Indie Bookseller! Great information!!
2 years ago
VanFleetStreetDesign says:
April 1st is a good day to have this! It's my birthday...and that's no April Fools Day joke! LOL
2 years ago
4hands says:
love the book, it was a surprise gift and i read half of it before i started to wonder who sent it. . . thanks mom
2 years ago
jenskelley says:
Yes! Happy to read this article. My spot illustrations can be found throughout the Handmade Marketplace. This book is great for crafters. Highly recommend!!
2 years ago
woolbrain says:
WoW a book for us :) how fabulous I will look for it here in Canada Thank you so much :)
2 years ago
Furiousdreams says:
I hope to make the virtual lab. Have already submitted my question!!
2 years ago
kidgiddy says:
I wish I could come to the "event" - but I have a meeting I have to go to that also starts at 7 at church! I will most certainly be watching this event on rewind!!! I'm so afraid of doing my first craft fair. I'm afraid of bombing and afraid of success! so i stand still! I hope they will talk about doing fairs and all that!! ☻/ /▌ / \ and hi to swallowfield - from Scarborough! Thanks, kg
2 years ago
carlossantiago says:
would love to go to the Kari event, but it will be a challenge that I cannot afford right now. Are you coming to Boston anytime soon???
2 years ago
slete says:
I'm waiting for my copy to arrive any day now! can't wait to join the group
2 years ago
jmliss says:
Sound great! Wish I could go... will definately be at the virtual lab!
2 years ago
jmliss says:
Sound great! Wish I could go... will definately be at the virtual lab!
2 years ago
knitvic says:
I have read the book but still am a bit clueless about how to set wholesale and retail prices. I often get great bargains for creative materials but then have to pay full price for replacements if/when I make more. Do I use the full price to set the price? Or do I just eat the cost because I don't want to raise prices? Help!
2 years ago
birchbeerboutique says:
hmm...i must get this book! i'll see you all there on thursday - virtually that is.
2 years ago
customdesigns4ubynan says:
Since I was laid off in Jan 2009 I have setting up my etsy store and learning how to sell online. As I tell people, this IS my day job. Although I have learned a lot on my own, my sales aren't nearly enough to support me. I need all the help I can get. I will buy this book and be in the virtual lab. Thank you very much for hosting this event, and for etsy itself.
2 years ago
pinkpolkaDotties says:
Have to pick up that book!!! Will certainly be in the virtual lab. Sounds very informative!!!!!
2 years ago
TheNightjar says:
i wish i could be there in NY to see this but i will be in the virtual lab for sure...i look forward to seeing the Handmade book too!!
2 years ago
LisasLittleCreations says:
Great!! Can't make it but will definitely check out the book & virtual lab. :)
2 years ago
CreatebyCherylAnn says:
Would like to be in the virtual lab. How do I do that?
2 years ago
wabisabibrooklyn says:
It was awesome - thank you!
2 years ago
SterlingnStone says:
Ugh! I am just sick that I missed this virtual panel discussion. Yesterday was just too hectic--too much on the table--and I lost track of time. Will there be a video of the discussion in any of the resources on Etsy???
2 years ago
PrettySnug says:
I'm off to buy this book now!
2 years ago
thebootychest says:
This is my BIBLE!!!! I bought this book on a whim last month and it has inspired me and given me courage. I am so thankful my sister pointed this book out to me. It has gotten me started, and I am posting my products on Thursday. I am so excited. I'm finally doing what I always dreamed I could, but never knew I could!
2 years ago
xoazuree says:
I can not express how helpful and fun to read this book is. The contributors are all from my favorite blogs of all kinds and online communities (Etsy, Raverly, Design*Sponge, etc.) and it was really interesting to read how some of my favorite blogs got started. My mom bought this book for me when I told her I wanted to start an Etsy shop to sell my Polaroid greeting cards and prints and it was such a great place to start! Best of luck to everyone in their shops!
1 year ago
xoazuree says:
Oh, and I forgot to mention how super cute the book is!
1 year ago