After years of selling my carvings at local shows and to regular customers, I had enough 'push' from those same customers that I should find a way to 'expand my horizons'. Opening my Etsy shop last year was a 'leap of faith' --- with plans to start small and see where it went.

The carvings that I do are completely done with hand tools -- no power tools. And require many hours of carving and almost as many painting and finishing. My 'fear' of not being able to replenish items to my shop came true this past fall, but I wouldn't trade this opportunity! With a full-time job, I am still trying to make it all work --- but wonder why I waited so long to join the Etsy family.

I taught myself to carve about 15 years ago and now have a wonderful following of local customers who patiently await their orders each holiday season. And I am excited to connect with Etsy customers as well!