Quit Your Day Job: Creative With Clay

Tell us about your previous working situation and how you discovered Etsy.
My name is Charan and I was once solely focused on software engineering. I was at my last job for 10 years, doing performance analysis on computer architecture features. To balance my professional life, I was simultaneously working with clay and had been selling at 2-3 shows a year. On attending a class from the Business of Crafts — led by Pam Corwin — I heard about Etsy. It made me think about the possibility of selling my pieces without having to take time off from work.

How did you prepare to transition into full-time Etsy selling?
When I first opened my store on Etsy, I wasn’t sure where it would take me. At first I was skeptical about selling online, because I felt pottery can be appreciated only if it is touched and felt — especially when it was about creating textures with my slip decorations, stamps and carvings. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that there are shoppers who prefer buying online rather than going to art shows.

Being an engineer and a very process-oriented person, I had also been making spreadsheets and plotting charts to figure out how much I would need to sell to make a living. This helped me evaluate the pricing of my work for retail/wholesale and also increased my efficiency. There is a lot more time and energy spent in selling your work than making it.

What is your favorite part about working with clay?
I enjoy every stage: I love handbuilding and wheel-throwing with soft clay, then the perfect soft stage when I can alter my forms. I really get in the zone when slip decorating my work. I put on my favorite Bollywood music and decorate. It is my meditation, and it requires all of my focus.

How did living in India influence your current work?
Most of my inspiration comes from Indian culture. I was born in Kuwait to Indian parents, and even though we were in a foreign country, my parents always surrounded us with things that were Indian. When we moved back to India during the Gulf War, my mom started a boutique for brides and bridesmaids in Mumbai. Weddings in India are something to behold — the women dress up in bright colors with elaborate embroidery patterns, each one different from the next. The colors and textures of intricate embroideries on silk fabric always caught my attention. I didn’t think about integrating this influence into my pottery until a few years back.

Another source of my inspiration is Indian cinema, also known as Bollywood. Apart from the elaborate set and costume designs, I love the music and dancing. The swaying of synchronized dancers, movement of long flowing fabrics, gestures and poses are very integral aspects of the genre. I try to capture this animated feel in my sculpture.

What are your best marketing tips?

 

  • Take good pictures and have good descriptions of your work.
  • I use my blog and Facebook fan page to share the process that goes into making my work, as well as the inspiration behind it. 
  • Making a connection with a customer through the story behind your work is very important to sell items and create repeat customers.

What’s been your most popular item or line to date?
Among my higher-end items, my most popular line has been my butter dishes for their unique decorative design and ability to hold a bamboo butter knife in the lid.

qydj_creativewithclay_butterdish.jpg

What have you found to be an unsuccessful promotion?
I think it would be giveaways on blogs where I was featured. They haven’t resulted in any direct sales that I know of. However, having your name on more blogs does increase your Google ranking and makes it easier to find your work. But so far, no regrets.

What’s the hardest part about running your own business?
The hardest part is the multiple hats I have to wear. I am the artist, maker, bookkeeper, sales person, advertising department, cleaner and much more. There are some days that I don’t make anything in my studio because I am doing everything else. The good thing is that I get to learn so much about all aspects of running a business.

What is the biggest challenge you face during your daily schedule?
My biggest challenge is time. I wish there were 48 hours in a day. I would like to include some exercise time, but every morning I greet my elliptical and say,”Tomorrow… for sure!”

What do you enjoy most about not having a day job?
Making my own hours. I can list my priorities and schedule them on my terms. At the end of the day, if I have accomplished something great, then I know it. I am not looking for that validation from upper management. I enjoy taking ownership and responsibility for my own actions.

What advice would you give someone considering a similar path?
It is hard work, but if you are passionate about what you do, it doesn’t feel like a drag. One thing I didn’t realize until I left my job was how productive you can be when you are focused. Earlier, with my head split between my full time job and pottery, I couldn’t give anything my 100%. With focus on what you are passionate about, you can channel all your energy and efforts.

What goals do you have in store for the future of your business?
This year I am doing more art shows and have been focusing on getting my work to more galleries and gift shops. Since doing my pottery full time, I have received several wholesale accounts which I couldn’t commit to earlier because of my two jobs. I am excited to see where this path takes me and I couldn’t do it without the support of my family and friends.

Thanks for sharing your story, Charan. Check out his work in the Seller’s Items below.

 Previous Quit Your Day Job posts

  • StudioZen

    StudioZen says:

    One of my favorite etsy shops! Congrats on your feature Charan!

    1 year ago

  • MegansMenagerie

    MegansMenagerie says:

    Amazing! I love your shop! Just beautiful!!! Congrats!!!

    1 year ago

  • irishandmore

    irishandmore says:

    Beautiful pieces. I love the fabric influence. Congrats on your success and on the feature!

    1 year ago

  • JesPlayin

    JesPlayin says:

    my mind is blown with the beauty of your pieces! absolutely gorgeous! congrats on your feature.

    1 year ago

  • 9cirmes

    9cirmes says:

    As I daydream about this day arriving in my future, my hat is off to you and your beautiful creations.

    1 year ago

  • jamiebandito

    jamiebandito says:

    Beautiful work - love the butter dishes!

    1 year ago

  • kathyscraftroom55

    kathyscraftroom55 says:

    Very pretty ceramic items!! Love your work & shop. :o)

    1 year ago

  • JDWolfePottery

    JDWolfePottery says:

    You are awesome! Congratulations!

    1 year ago

  • ArtistBeingHuman

    ArtistBeingHuman says:

    Love your really unique, original style. Congratulations on your success.

    1 year ago

  • magprint

    magprint says:

    Gorgeous work.

    1 year ago

  • vesselsandwares

    vesselsandwares says:

    Yay! One of my etsy favorites! I have a lovely butter dish that greets me from the fridge every morning. It is a joy to use and a pleasure to look at. Love your work!

    1 year ago

  • chARiTyelise

    chARiTyelise says:

    Charan-- i am so delighted to see you featured here! as you know, i have always been a big fan of your work and i so enjoy watching you continually grow and develop as an artist!! your work is magical and your generosity of spirit in sharing what you do with the Etsy Mud team and other artists is so wonderful as well!! Kudos friend!!!

    1 year ago

  • tasticlife

    tasticlife says:

    Bought a piece from Charan a while back. It's still one of my favorites. What a great seller. Congrats on the feature!

    1 year ago

  • VitalVintage

    VitalVintage says:

    Such a fun shop! Congrats on the feature!

    1 year ago

  • HobbyPotter

    HobbyPotter says:

    Oh Charan this is great!! I loved reading your history and how you came to be doing pottery. Knowing what influences your design is also very intriguing. Love you designs!!!!

    1 year ago

  • reiter8

    reiter8 says:

    Lovely seller and article. I chuckled when I read about wishing for a 48 hour day and always pushing off exercise until tomorrow - I can totally relate! Beautiful products - wishing you all the best and much success!

    1 year ago

  • fbstudiovt

    fbstudiovt says:

    Beautiful work and patterns! It's so nice to see a profile on someone with an engineering background who is also passionate about art. I feel like the two just don't get enough recognition for their similarities....

    1 year ago

  • ACupOfSparkle

    ACupOfSparkle says:

    I don't work with clay; but, I really like clay. The designs and the attention to the detail to your work is amazing and very unique. I found your story very inspirational and will be following your blog. Congratulations on the feature.

    1 year ago

  • dorothydomingo

    dorothydomingo says:

    Congrats, Charan, on your well deserved feature! And I love your new henna tattoo vases!

    1 year ago

  • JasmineLund

    JasmineLund says:

    Wow, I love the colors/patterns/textures! Gorgeous work! Congratulations on the feature!

    1 year ago

  • jibbyandjuna

    jibbyandjuna says:

    I have admired your work for quite a while and it great to see you featured here and to learn more about your journey! Best wishes for continued success

    1 year ago

  • peaseblossomstudio

    peaseblossomstudio says:

    What a fabulous shop and article!

    1 year ago

  • SandBoxStudio

    SandBoxStudio says:

    Lovely shop! I love your work. Congratulations on a great article!

    1 year ago

  • VintageEye

    VintageEye says:

    Such beautiful shop! Thanks for giving us a closer look!

    1 year ago

  • TickledPinkKnits

    TickledPinkKnits says:

    I think your work is phenomenal! Thank you for sharing your story.

    1 year ago

  • LetsAllMakeBelieve

    LetsAllMakeBelieve says:

    Your whole shop is BEAUTIFUL! :)

    1 year ago

  • Morado

    Morado says:

    Congratulations! Your shop is wonderful!! I can see how Bollywood and India can be so inspiring.

    1 year ago

  • raspberrybutterflies

    raspberrybutterflies says:

    your work is amazing, so beautiful and unique, I love it thanks for sharing with us.

    1 year ago

  • warmnfuzzies

    warmnfuzzies says:

    Fabulous and creative shop!

    1 year ago

  • FionaArt

    FionaArt says:

    Very beautiful and creative work, and a very inspiring person to read about, congratulations and best of luck.

    1 year ago

  • HouseOfMoss

    HouseOfMoss says:

    Congratulations on your success! I've never seen work quite like yours, ever!

    1 year ago

  • seasonsofthevalley

    seasonsofthevalley says:

    Great work! I love the QYDJ posts! So inspiring

    1 year ago

  • paulakitty1

    paulakitty1 says:

    Congrats, your shop is amazing!

    1 year ago

  • ameliegallery

    ameliegallery says:

    Wonderful stuff...!

    1 year ago

  • Iammie

    Iammie says:

    Beautiful works.

    1 year ago

  • cedarpocket

    cedarpocket says:

    Thank you for your honesty and experience you share in this interview. You so clearly express the benefits and difficulties of running an online business! I've admired your work from afar...nice to see the person behind it! Melissa

    1 year ago

  • ElegantElementsOnlin

    ElegantElementsOnlin says:

    Beautiful pieces. Thank you so much for sharing your story, it is helpful and inspiring. I've got to focus on connecting with people and sharing my creative process. Because I enjoy my craft and it's such a spiritual and meditative process for me, it's hard to come out of my work room and do the required marketing. I'm making that commitment today. Thanks again and much continued success.

    1 year ago

  • khphillips

    khphillips says:

    Congrats on the feature Charan! Excellent work!

    1 year ago

  • DaHukaHouse

    DaHukaHouse says:

    Really beautiful work. Congrats!

    1 year ago

  • LittleWrenPottery

    LittleWrenPottery says:

    Beautiful work, really inspiring for me to see another potter whos quit their day job! Can really see the indian influences in your work, my mother has a beautiful sari she got on her travels to India. Beautiful work!

    1 year ago

  • kremboland

    kremboland says:

    Hi! Just marked your shop as one of my fave last week...I love your work, your choice of colors, lines - very unique and interesting! wish you best of luck!

    1 year ago

  • vcreations

    vcreations says:

    amazing items congrats you have beautiful items thanks for sharing

    1 year ago

  • 2TrickPony

    2TrickPony says:

    I love your "dancing pieces" and with the music inspiring you, its clear where they grew from! I Have admired your work for some time, congratulations on the feature.

    1 year ago

  • littlebugjewelry

    littlebugjewelry says:

    Gorgeous work!

    1 year ago

  • handprintlady

    handprintlady says:

    I was wondering how you work a full time job and produce so much..now I know that you finally quit your old job. Congratulations! I think you made a real niche for yourself..your work is original and unmistakeable, something that is hard to achieve in pottery. The quality of your work is amazing!

    1 year ago

  • deLcobrestudio

    deLcobrestudio says:

    Congrats !!! Love your work !!!! :D

    1 year ago

  • WalterSilva

    WalterSilva says:

    Thanks for the great advice! May much continued success follow.

    1 year ago

  • tlasslett

    tlasslett says:

    I agree whole heartedly with everyone. Your works are super beautiful. I hope to purchase one soon.

    1 year ago

  • AccentsandPetals

    AccentsandPetals says:

    I had fun reading your interview. Congratulations. Beautiful shop, so many gorgeous designs.

    1 year ago

  • MaBille

    MaBille says:

    So I'm not the only one looking for a way to add 24 hours to every day!??! Congratulations: all the different hats that you wear, the lead to BEAUTIFUL results. I wish I could just appear in you workshop and look and touch ... The colors, the details...wow...gorgeous. Thanks for sharing different tips. Have a great too-short-day!

    1 year ago

  • busterandboo

    busterandboo says:

    Fabulous work, congrats!

    1 year ago

  • kikisthisandthat

    kikisthisandthat says:

    Beautiful work....Congratulations!

    1 year ago

  • Mclovebuddy

    Mclovebuddy says:

    great story and process. love your work - so whimsical and beautiful.

    1 year ago

  • ArtigianoJewelBox

    ArtigianoJewelBox says:

    Beautiful work! Thanks for sharing a great story.

    1 year ago

  • JulieLillian

    JulieLillian says:

    Your work is magnificent. Congratulations! Cheers, JulieLillian

    1 year ago

  • greedysis

    greedysis says:

    congratulations, great advice and tips!!! love your butter dish and pillow shakers (-:

    1 year ago

  • mazedasastoat

    mazedasastoat says:

    Beautiful, beautiful work! Wishing you continued success!

    1 year ago

  • modernbird

    modernbird says:

    beautiful work, inspiring interview. thanks!

    1 year ago

  • SoapForYourSoul

    SoapForYourSoul says:

    Beautiful pottery! Congrats on going full time.

    1 year ago

  • amberike

    amberike says:

    Such beautiful work. Congrats!

    1 year ago

  • overthemeadow

    overthemeadow says:

    Love the designs. Love your style....gorgeous! Congrats!

    1 year ago

  • omajean8

    omajean8 says:

    Loved reading the back story, suspected you had an engineering/systems thinker background, based on the items I have purchased from you! just saving up to buy some more...

    1 year ago

  • ArchetypeZ

    ArchetypeZ says:

    Great work. Love the colors.

    1 year ago

  • quirkyshop

    quirkyshop says:

    Awesome!

    1 year ago

  • fromthedrawingboard

    fromthedrawingboard says:

    Really great stuff! Thank you for sharing.

    1 year ago

  • Gamut

    Gamut says:

    Yay to Bollywood and India! I also love the colors and designs-blessings on your new full time creative life.

    1 year ago

  • mirabellamorello

    mirabellamorello says:

    It's so inspiring to read your story! Your work is just beautiful! Thank you for sharing your creativity with us!!

    1 year ago

  • OsoVictoria

    OsoVictoria says:

    Very nice work, I also love your influence of Bollywood, the movement and fabric, lovely. Congratulations on your success.

    1 year ago

  • AlpineGypsy

    AlpineGypsy says:

    What a wonderful shop, and such whimsical pieces! Thanks again for another revealing interview Etsy ♦ Heidi

    1 year ago

  • TheZestyDesk

    TheZestyDesk says:

    Wow...the Indian inspiration definately shows in your work. Your pottery is beautiful! Congrats on following your true calling!

    1 year ago

  • patspottery

    patspottery says:

    Congrats Charan ♥♥

    1 year ago

  • ceciliabluevintage

    ceciliabluevintage says:

    Thank you for sharing your story! It was heartfelt and inspiring.

    1 year ago

  • rgtmum

    rgtmum says:

    Beautiful work - thanks for sharing your success - lovely article too...

    1 year ago

  • EcoChicHandKnits

    EcoChicHandKnits says:

    Beautiful pottery! Congratulations!

    1 year ago

  • TSMC

    TSMC says:

    Thank you for shareing it is nice to hear though I know I am not the only one juggeling all parts of business and striving to succeed :)

    1 year ago

  • Creativewithclay

    Creativewithclay says:

    Thank you everyone for your comments! It wouldn't be possible with the support of Etsy and customers I have come across here

    1 year ago

  • artnouveaupassion

    artnouveaupassion says:

    Gorgeous, whimsical, functional and cultural! Awesomeness!

    1 year ago

  • adorapop

    adorapop says:

    What a lovely interview - really made me smile :) Very inspirational and a great reminder of all the joys of working for oneself!

    1 year ago

  • ConceptsInClay

    ConceptsInClay says:

    There is great consistency in style and beauty amongst your pieces - something I am always trying to achieve myself! Love your work - congrats on the feature and thanks for the encouraging words!!

    1 year ago

  • elliven

    elliven says:

    congratulations on the well deserved feature! beautiful work!

    1 year ago

  • DowntownGirlDesigns

    DowntownGirlDesigns says:

    Wow! Lovely works!!! very beautiful pottery :)

    1 year ago

  • DowntownGirlVintage

    DowntownGirlVintage says:

    Nice story! Thank you for sharing :)

    1 year ago

  • Anawerks

    Anawerks says:

    Beautiful work, Charan, I love how you make your dishes dance. :)

    1 year ago

  • keeleybehling

    keeleybehling says:

    Great interview. Love the detail of the pottery.

    1 year ago

  • RedMarionette

    RedMarionette says:

    Your work is stunning! I love the Pillow shakers and the butter dishes! Beautiful and functional - something I strive to look for in houseware pieces. Congratulations on quitting your day job!

    1 year ago

  • WSDreams

    WSDreams says:

    WOW. Truly outstanding craftsmanship. Your work is positively incredible! :) Congratulations on much deserved success and recognition! :) --Kim

    1 year ago

  • Parachute425

    Parachute425 says:

    So why haven't I run across your shop before? Great products! I love colorful, functional pieces for the home. Congrats and continued success to you.

    1 year ago

  • SweetNSassySewing

    SweetNSassySewing says:

    Congrats on the feature! Your work is very intricate and beautiful! ~Lisa :o)

    1 year ago

  • ClayLickCreekPottery

    ClayLickCreekPottery says:

    Congrats on the great article and your wonderful story of success!

    1 year ago

  • bud1

    bud1 says:

    I love your work ... passion ... and thoughtfulness. Congrats and thanks for sharing your story.

    1 year ago

  • bud1

    bud1 says:

    I love your work ... passion ... and thoughtfulness. Congrats and thanks for sharing your story.

    1 year ago

  • kat4526

    kat4526 says:

    love the pottery, very unique! A very honest interview...it comes down to a lot of hard work, long hours, lots of marketing and getting out into the public as well. Some great advice!

    1 year ago

  • LittleBayClay

    LittleBayClay says:

    Well done! congratulations, Charan, all the best

    1 year ago

  • Marumadrid

    Marumadrid says:

    Pretty colorful stuff, I like it! :)

    1 year ago

  • pulpsushi

    pulpsushi says:

    What a gorgeous shop and stunning work, congratulations!

    1 year ago

  • lesperancetile

    lesperancetile says:

    Congratulations on the feature, Charan!! Your work is so lovely!!

    1 year ago

  • GoldhawkPotteryEtc

    GoldhawkPotteryEtc says:

    Thank you for a great interview. The hours really are tough but if you love clay, you will succeed!

    1 year ago

  • LittleStudioJewels

    LittleStudioJewels says:

    So whimsical and beautiful! I love the colors and patterns - so original yet they would work in any decor. Great interview and I wish him every success!

    1 year ago

  • Misspottery

    Misspottery says:

    I have a beautiful Charan mug that I purchased a few years ago after watching a video of him slip decorating his work. Love it - congrats Charan!

    1 year ago

  • bhangtiez

    bhangtiez says:

    Amazing works of art..............Thank u for sharing u'r story!

    1 year ago

  • priya123

    priya123 says:

    Charan ji.. heartiest congrats & what a beautful amazing work !

    1 year ago

  • BonTons

    BonTons says:

    Gorgeous work

    1 year ago

  • Phaiix

    Phaiix says:

    Amazing, unique and beautiful items. Fell in love with it all at first glance. Your story, passion, determination and hard work are a true inspiration. Thank you for sharing it with us :)

    1 year ago

  • DreadyPrincessDesign

    DreadyPrincessDesign says:

    The colors and patterns are absolutely awesome! Your attitude and amazing art is exactly why you were featured on here! Sending a genuine, heartfelt, "congrats" on your success!!!! :)

    1 year ago

  • LesasPlunderPlace

    LesasPlunderPlace says:

    Sighhhh.... Such beauty! I am in awe -- and aww! Because the pillow salt and pepper shakers and pillow trinket boxes are just so sweet! Your butter dish design is truly clever! Congratulations on being featured! :-)

    1 year ago

  • pearlies4girlies

    pearlies4girlies says:

    Congrats on your success, what a great Etsy shop! Love your oil bottles!

    1 year ago

  • ImSoVintage

    ImSoVintage says:

    beautiful work.

    1 year ago

  • LittleMissCards

    LittleMissCards says:

    what beautiful work! I love it!

    1 year ago

  • SongandBranch

    SongandBranch says:

    Grats Charan! You definitely deserve to be here!

    1 year ago

  • SweetOliveSupplies

    SweetOliveSupplies says:

    Great stuff! I love Indian art and patterns too!

    1 year ago

  • TheFertileGarden

    TheFertileGarden says:

    Gorgeous work and colors, inspirational feature!!

    1 year ago

  • cheapworks

    cheapworks says:

    Your work is breathtaking. I am envious, truly.

    1 year ago

  • carolyntreasures

    carolyntreasures says:

    Mr. Charan: You truly have gifted hands. The craftsmanship of your work speaks for itself. I've always enjoyed a nice pottery design and plan on taking a class very soon. Continued Success!!!

    1 year ago

  • bodegaofplenty

    bodegaofplenty says:

    what a great story- and what an amazing turnabout in careers- I would have never guessed one could go from software to pottery. Truly great work : ) Congrats.

    1 year ago

  • BetsyBellPP

    BetsyBellPP says:

    Wow this is great. And colour wise just what I like. Truly inspiring.

    1 year ago

  • GlazedOver

    GlazedOver says:

    I can say without at doubt that we are living quite parallel lives. I've always admired your work, Charan. Great article!

    1 year ago

  • kzannoart

    kzannoart says:

    Congratulations, you deserve all the kudos and more , delightful work, really beautiful and unique !

    1 year ago

  • secretjewellz

    secretjewellz says:

    Congratulations on being featured. Truly beautiful works. All the best to you.

    1 year ago

  • 60sDaughter

    60sDaughter says:

    Congratulations! What Beautiful Colourful Creations :)

    1 year ago

  • kzannoart

    kzannoart says:

    Congratulations, you deserve all the kudos and more , delightful work, really beautiful and unique !

    1 year ago

  • kzannoart

    kzannoart says:

    Congratulations, you deserve all the kudos and more , delightful work, really beautiful and unique !

    1 year ago

  • jesstice

    jesstice says:

    thank you for such a great interview-- the part about not looking for validation from upper management really struck a chord with me.

    1 year ago

  • JAnnsBoutique

    JAnnsBoutique says:

    One of my fave shops to date! such unique pieces.

    1 year ago

  • BasahanAlit

    BasahanAlit says:

    Lovely items... I just love the colours, earthly yet bright at the same time ^_^

    1 year ago

  • loveartworks

    loveartworks says:

    SUPER Awesome BIG Congratulations Charan!! Love the Interview and I am so Happy for your Success!! See you soon I hope!! :)

    1 year ago

  • tbtcwedding

    tbtcwedding says:

    Beautiful works! Thanks for sharing your story.

    1 year ago

  • ialbert

    ialbert says:

    Very inspirational article for me, thanks ! as I am also a software engineer who is working hard to make a mark in art world. Best wishes Charan

    1 year ago

  • Samanthasporcelain

    Samanthasporcelain says:

    Wonderful,beautiful creations! Thanks for sharing!

    1 year ago

  • theapawthecary

    theapawthecary says:

    Very nice!!! love the article!!! I am one of those that buy pottery online!!!

    1 year ago

  • aroluna

    aroluna says:

    Awesome Charan! is great to see you featured! Well deserved! You know I love your work and I'm always looking at how you develop your business!

    1 year ago

  • Fianaturals

    Fianaturals says:

    Congratulations! I really love your work !!!So beautiful and your shop is in my favorite shops! Blessings

    1 year ago

  • SEOWebDesign

    SEOWebDesign says:

    Gorgeous colors and designs!! Going out on your own was a great decision. Wish you great success.

    1 year ago

  • piecesofelises

    piecesofelises says:

    I love your work! I can definitely see the Bollywood influence in the patterns and construction of yout pieces. Congrats on the feature!

    1 year ago

  • nightowlcraftworks

    nightowlcraftworks says:

    Great job Charan! I've followed your work ever since your DIY network feature. Can't wait to see what you come up with next!

    1 year ago

  • fromjeanne

    fromjeanne says:

    Beautiful work! Thank you for your story!

    1 year ago

  • PerfectStrokes

    PerfectStrokes says:

    Absolutely Balle Balle work! Fantastic attention to details. Paaji, I also recently quit my day job to focus on painting. Please visit my store and guide me about how to improve my work (and to a lesser extent, increase sales!) :) Your shop is favorite-d!

    1 year ago

  • PCanPotter

    PCanPotter says:

    From one potter to another--my sincere congratulations. You have great skill and have been very blessed.

    1 year ago

  • kapeldesigns

    kapeldesigns says:

    Incredible! Love it.

    1 year ago

  • sofialgarvia

    sofialgarvia says:

    Congratulations - you have wonderful pieces of pottery, I never bought pottery online, but I made me change my made about it, with all the beautiful objects only a click away! Wish you great sucess!

    1 year ago

  • ProdigyCrafts

    ProdigyCrafts says:

    very inspiring!

    1 year ago

  • gjnoland

    gjnoland says:

    Awesome work and great photography!

    1 year ago

  • caratsoup

    caratsoup says:

    Your work is simply wonderful! I love all your colors. Thanks for sharing.

    1 year ago

  • ElaborateStitches

    ElaborateStitches says:

    Wow you do wonderful work! Thank you for the information and great advice.

    1 year ago

  • Vintage2NewJewelry

    Vintage2NewJewelry says:

    I absolutely love your pottery! The colors and designs are amazing! I am so glad I found your shop and thanks for sharing your story. I wish you all the best.

    1 year ago

  • flowerandpearlstudio

    flowerandpearlstudio says:

    Love your work! It makes to sad to hear that you have to spend more time selling than making things. It still has to be better than working full time at another job and trying to make a go of our business.I'm happy for you.

    1 year ago

  • Feille

    Feille says:

    OMG! Beautiful!

    1 year ago

  • deefinitydesigns

    deefinitydesigns says:

    Beautiful! Beautiful! Beautiful!

    1 year ago

  • silversamba

    silversamba says:

    thanks for sharing!! Alana

    1 year ago

  • CarlaRaeVintage

    CarlaRaeVintage says:

    BEAUTIFUL the word says it all.

    1 year ago

  • ChezaIndigo13

    ChezaIndigo13 says:

    Your work is amazing and inspiring and oh so BEAUTIFUL. Thank you for your words of wisdom and for sharing your story and hope.

    1 year ago

  • juditavill

    juditavill says:

    Charan is a total rock star!!!

    1 year ago

  • TidbitsOfColor

    TidbitsOfColor says:

    These are gorgeous!

    1 year ago

  • BoutiquebyGrace

    BoutiquebyGrace says:

    Beautiful work!! Love the butter dish.

    1 year ago

  • NowISee

    NowISee says:

    Your products are amazingly beautiful. Your store, one of my favorites already ;) Keep designing - the world needs products such as yours - handmade craftsmanship.

    1 year ago

  • Goldenoaks

    Goldenoaks says:

    Wow ! Like it

    1 year ago

  • mindfulmatters

    mindfulmatters says:

    Stunning pottery with graceful movement! Your shop is a visual feast Charan - wishing you continued success!

    1 year ago

  • SeedandSky

    SeedandSky says:

    A wonderful interview. My mother was a potter (still is) when I was growing up, and so I know firsthand what it takes to bring that dream to fruition. Your pots are gorgeous, congratulations!!!

    1 year ago

  • bloomingfancysisters

    bloomingfancysisters says:

    I absolutely Love your work! It is beautiful, and you are obviously very compassionate about what you do. I am hoping to evolve my creativity in different ways, as now I love to make jewelry, and create items from recycled finds, and paint, but because of my personal situation right now, I am not able to do all the things I want to. So I am looking foward to the future and you have inspired me! I am soooo ready~so maybe sometime in the future I will be able to show what I can do! You are amazing! I really enjoyed your interview~Congratulations!

    1 year ago

  • JulieAnnLopez

    JulieAnnLopez says:

    Just love his work. What a great read, too. Thanks for this!

    1 year ago

  • JennasRedRhino

    JennasRedRhino says:

    Charan does exceptional work. I bought two custom pieces earlier this year and am so pleased!

    1 year ago

  • Silkartist

    Silkartist says:

    Your work is so very beautiful!

    1 year ago

  • creations138

    creations138 says:

    Beautiful! great Advice!

    1 year ago

  • Daisymetalcreations

    Daisymetalcreations says:

    Great advice! amazing work!

    1 year ago

  • TrulyAesthetic

    TrulyAesthetic says:

    I wish you all the best! Thank you sharing your experiences with us :)

    1 year ago

  • Luckymoondesigns

    Luckymoondesigns says:

    I just read your article...I am just getting ready to set up my store. I wrote down some things you said worked for you!! Thanks and the best of luck to you. Your work is stunning!!

    1 year ago

  • briannachamberlain

    briannachamberlain says:

    Clay is something that I have yet to try. Thank you for the inspiration. Such beautiful designs.

    1 year ago

  • capurrocustoms23

    capurrocustoms23 says:

    I love your article! I am jealous! I want etsy to be my full time job!

    1 year ago

  • deardavy

    deardavy says:

    So unique!

    1 year ago

  • keishapeguespottery

    keishapeguespottery says:

    You're work us gorgeous! Don't you have a channel on Youtube? I think I saw you there making cups with buttons??? Amazing!!!!

    1 year ago

  • keishapeguespottery

    keishapeguespottery says:

    I can see what you mean about having 2 jobs. It's so hard to focus with them both. Best wishes to you!

    1 year ago

  • StarLotusCreations

    StarLotusCreations says:

    Great story. I once had a full time job. Etsy is becoming kinda like a full time job. Great work.

    1 year ago

  • thebqe

    thebqe says:

    Amazing work!! Congrats on the feature. Love the intricate design in your work!

    1 year ago

  • vickiorion

    vickiorion says:

    My pieces from Charan are among my favorites! Great article!

    1 year ago

  • Creativewithclay

    Creativewithclay says:

    Yes.. I have a youtube channel as well. http://www.youtube.com/user/Creativeclay

    1 year ago

  • KristinaChadwick

    KristinaChadwick says:

    Absolutely beautiful work Charan! I'm an Etsy newbie and just stumbled upon this article. What a wonderful story! And you get to live in one of my favorite places - I miss running over to Seattle Pottery Supply! Now I have to drive to Pennsylvania. I wish you continued success and will follow your work now that I've found you!

    1 year ago

  • BeJeweledNH

    BeJeweledNH says:

    Congrats Charan! I was just in Serendipity Boutique in Exeter yesterday admiring your work - it's all so beautiful!

    1 year ago

  • BeJeweledNH

    BeJeweledNH says:

    Congrats Charan! I was just in Serendipity Boutique in Exeter, NH yesterday admiring your work - it's all so beautiful!

    1 year ago

  • WomanOfClayArtworks

    WomanOfClayArtworks says:

    Congrats Charan!!!!!!!!!! Your work is amazing and it deserves the rewards. Here's to continued success!

    1 year ago

  • ethicBioskin

    ethicBioskin says:

    Excellent work! wow !Congratulations Charan!

    1 year ago

  • BeaBeaCouture

    BeaBeaCouture says:

    Wow. What gorgeous work!!!

    1 year ago

  • TGagneCeramics

    TGagneCeramics says:

    Excellent article. Continued success and enjoyment.

    1 year ago

  • MDCInteriors

    MDCInteriors says:

    Your story is an inspiration. Great pieces!

    1 year ago

  • cicisvintage

    cicisvintage says:

    I too love playing with clay. I love your pieces! And you're right, the butter dishes truly are beautiful! I love to make models of rooms. My profile pic is one of my favorite pieces that I have done...

    354 days ago

  • Artbushed

    Artbushed says:

    This is what it's all about......

    326 days ago

  • gilstrapdesigns

    gilstrapdesigns says:

    I love your pottery. Your shop and designs are so amazing thank you for sharing such a great interview with us and much continued success.

    256 days ago

  • VashiaDesigns

    VashiaDesigns says:

    love your shop!!! charan, how did u know what piece to make a lot of when u first started out? the piece that would take u beyond ur wildest dreams, and how many did u make??

    198 days ago

  • justcalindia

    Justcal India says:

    Justcal your yellowpages business directory. Search any information on all B2B and B2C Products and Services available in Mumbai,Delhi,Bangalore,Hyderabad,Chennai,Pune,Kolkata,Ahmedabad and many more. Yellow Pages | Business Directory

    60 days ago