Etsy's Handmade Blog
Quit Your Day Job: FancifulForm
Story by marymary
Published on May 11, 2009 in Spotlight 		Photo by

FancifulForm

Through the success of her Etsy shop, Lauren, a.k.a. FancifulForm, has been able to balance all aspects of her business while simultaneously putting herself through school. Lauren has developed her own strategies for selling success through trial and error. Today's she is going to share some of her best tips on how to succeed in growing a business. In the coming months she hopes to save enough money to move into a larger studio and continue her growing success.

How did you originally get into the business of making things?
Creating has always been so much a part of my life, so ingrained, that I honestly have no idea when it began. For as long as I can remember I have been inventing and designing and creating. I've gone through phases where I try to pretend that I don't need to craft, but in the end I always go back to the inevitable truth that making things makes me happy.

When you first started selling on Etsy, did you have dreams or goals of eventually quitting your day job?
I've always known that I would eventually make my living in some unconventional creative way...I just had no idea that I stumbled onto it so soon. In the fall of 2007 I discovered Etsy by accident while browsing the interwebz. It didn't cross my mind to sell here until December of that same year.  I have been painting since high school, but I had recently started taking a college painting class. After seeing the reactions of my teachers and fellow students I thought, "Hey, It would be really neat to see if I could sell my artwork." I started up my first shop, and to my surprise by the next morning I had sold my first painting.  It was a thrill to see that happen so soon (though, now I think I probably underpriced quite a bit). I eventually discovered that trying to produce paintings fast to keep my shop fresh seemed to dampen my creativity. So I decided to try something else.

By April I started creating pendants. At the same time I opened my second, and current store so I could keep the pendants and paintings separate. I originally made pendants that were essentially large scrabble tile pendants with different kinds of paper adhered to wooden blocks. I was just experimenting with different collage mediums. I still didn't feel fulfilled. At some point I started thinking about a time, years ago, when I had made a rose out of Play Dough.  After some trial and error I figured out how I did it. I began to realize that I enjoyed working with clay more than most mediums. By Christmas my sales had increased enough that I started to consider making FancifulForm my full-time career.

Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time?
I really just jumped in head first. I had no idea what to expect or how to do anything. Everything was a learning experience: taxes, licensing, shipping...all new.  I learned entirely from doing. I wouldn't recommend that for everyone.

What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What's your best marketing tip?
Customers won't purchase what they can't see, or don't see. This applies to photographs as well as the marketplace. You need the best pictures possible and to stay visible!  There is someone out there who wants your items. You have to find them. You have to show them what you've got. I have found relisting, adding new items, and advertising on other websites to be very successful.

What have you found to be an unsuccessful promotion?
This may sound crazy, but I have found most everything to be successful in some way. Even if it's just one sale or a few extra hearts, I feel anything is a success if at least one person views my shop. They may not have purchased anything today, but that doesn't mean they never will. I guess the only truly unsuccessful promotion for me has been not to promote at all. (The promo forum comes in a close second.)

Walk us through your typical workday.

  • Sometimes I get up before 10am, but I usually don't. I have never been much of a "before noon" person. Sometimes I roll out of bed, relist, and then roll right back into bed.
  • My day really begins with answering e-mails and convos when I do wake up.
  • I write down any orders that I received overnight and relist anything that has sold. If I haven't sold anything I renew something popular.
  • It's usually around 2pm that I start working on orders or designing new items. If I have anything for the post office from the previous day I'll make a quick trip before jumping into my work.
  • Depending on what day of the week it is I may, or may not, have a raid at 7pm. (Yes, I am a girl and I play World Of Warcraft. Rawr!)
  • I work until I am too tired to see. Lastly, I package any completed orders and pass out.

What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?
I love being able to sleep in. I hate waking up in the morning. Unless you pump me full of caffeine I am a total zombie before 11am. With that in mind I really do miss the social aspect of working a regular day job. Working at home can be a little isolating. Chat has been my therapy for that.

What's the hardest part about running your own business?
Making all of the decisions. Makes me crazy!

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself? What advice would you give someone else?
Just hang in there! Keep going! Focus! After more than a year on Etsy I have learned that patience is a virtue. Some things just take time. Not everyone can find your shop the second you open. It takes time to build a customer base and learn how to really make your store work for you.

What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year for your Etsy business?
I am saving up to eventually move into a larger workspace. Right now my shop takes up about 1/2 of my living room when I am not working. When I am actually creating I find it hard to even move. Having a separate studio within the next year would be a dream come true.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I have met so many fabulously talented people on the forums and in chat that I would have never met otherwise. Without the urging of my family, my boyfriend, and fellow chatters, I may not have made the move to create on Etsy full time.  I am really looking forward to this next semester working from home and going to school. I think it will be a big advantage to study where I work and take breaks whenever I need.

I am incredibly grateful to Etsy for the opportunity feel passionate about what I do for a living.

You can find some of our previous Quit Your Day Job posts here!  Take a look at some of Lauren's handmade items below.

Tags business, fancifulform, full-time, Jewelry, Quit Your Day Job, sellers, selling, Spotlight, success story, work at home moms, workflow, working
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251 comments     Login to add your own!

May 11, 2009 at 3:49 p.m. novadesigns

Very inspiring!
I love your shop, you make such beautiful things.

May 11, 2009 at 3:54 p.m. TheBrassHussy

how exciting, beautiful flowers!

May 11, 2009 at 3:55 p.m. KnotOriginal

Congratulations on becoming your own boss!!!
Your flowers are gorgeous♥

May 11, 2009 at 3:59 p.m. Morado

I'm a big fan of urs!! lol...so good to see u here and many congrats on ur success :o) Truely inspiring!

May 11, 2009 at 4:02 p.m. mullishmuse

AWESOME, your flowers are such a fantastic design. congrats to the max!

May 11, 2009 at 4:05 p.m. stilettoheights

I am officially in love with her rings!

May 11, 2009 at 4:05 p.m. clodaghmolloy

I love this. I am the same. Work best in afternoon till the wee hours of the night. So inspiring. I would love to leave the day job. Thank you.

May 11, 2009 at 4:06 p.m. SteppingStones

Such beautiful items! And dang baby.... you're organized!

May 11, 2009 at 4:10 p.m. EclecticOrchid

Truly inspirational! Your store is lovely! I share your passion for working with clay! It is terrific! Congrats on your success!

May 11, 2009 at 4:12 p.m. VintageEye

fanciful indeed...and beautiful!
i am an after noon person as well.
"twoish" is my favorite time to get going!
i rarely leave the house before 3 pm!

May 11, 2009 at 4:12 p.m. AeFondKis

Your studio looked a hive of creativity. Well done you.
AeFondKis
x

May 11, 2009 at 4:14 p.m. adoreneko

Beautiful flowers and roses.
Yep, patience and creativity go hand in hand on Etsy.

May 11, 2009 at 4:16 p.m. galit

Inspiring!

May 11, 2009 at 4:22 p.m. michon

Beautiful work, I love the rose pendants.

May 11, 2009 at 4:23 p.m. reallybadkitty

Lauren! This is so exciting. I am so glad things have been working out for you!1

May 11, 2009 at 4:29 p.m. gloilocksandbody

WoW FTW.

May 11, 2009 at 4:32 p.m. ButterflyLinx

Beautiful work! Very Inspiring...Your story gives me hope.

May 11, 2009 at 4:33 p.m. stitchknitsew

Wow, your flowers are beautiful

May 11, 2009 at 4:34 p.m. minnowbye

very very beautiful stuff!

May 11, 2009 at 4:36 p.m. jenniferlynnstudio

Continued success to you!...I wish my studio was that neat!

May 11, 2009 at 4:39 p.m. maiziedesigns

I love the Quit Your Day Job series. The stories are so inspiring and offer great advice. This article was no exception. Thanks for sharing Fancifulform!

May 11, 2009 at 4:44 p.m. BeauAndStella

yay! I remember reading your post in the forums the day you quit! You are living my dream. Lets hope I follow in your footsteps really soon. Congrats!!!

May 11, 2009 at 4:47 p.m. beautifulbridget

What an inspirational article!!

May 11, 2009 at 4:47 p.m. staceylyndesigns

Thanks for sharing your inspiring story! I love your products. They are beautiful!

May 11, 2009 at 4:47 p.m. alibli

Congrats Lauren!

May 11, 2009 at 4:48 p.m. 1337art

Very inspiring! I am in a similar situation. Thank you for your interview and showing us the behind the scenes of your business.

May 11, 2009 at 4:49 p.m. AlizabethDesigns

Very Nice to hear. Thanks for sharing.

May 11, 2009 at 4:52 p.m. lovelygifts

Beautiful shop! Great story! Congrats!

May 11, 2009 at 4:53 p.m. truLuxe

What a fantastic approach to your business... Glad to hear you've found success. I've watched your items for awhile and used them in treasuries... everthing is just lovely.

xx

May 11, 2009 at 4:55 p.m. whiletheyplay

Oh! I just love her shoppe!!! I found it a little while back. Such beautiful crafts(wo)manship and original designs.
I hope Lauren finds the bigger work space that she desires so much!
CONGRATS on the Feature, Lauren. :)

May 11, 2009 at 4:55 p.m. Linelle10

very unique work!!! :)

May 11, 2009 at 5:03 p.m. EJPcreations

I just love her shop! And her pictures are amazing. It's so nice to hear her story after being a fan of her work for so long :)

May 11, 2009 at 5:03 p.m. LLing2303

Beautiful work and Congrats:)
ohhh World of warcraft FTW:))

May 11, 2009 at 5:07 p.m. RadiantGem

Thanks for your lovely creations in the world that make people smile. And congrats on your super success! Aloha, A'nah

May 11, 2009 at 5:09 p.m. theivorymagnolia

Great article!

I have purchased pendants from fancifulForm, they are just awesome! I get so many compliments.

May 11, 2009 at 5:12 p.m. dragonhouseofyuen

Lauren has very beautiful work - so glad to be able to read about her story! thank you!

May 11, 2009 at 5:18 p.m. MakingPaper

Beautiful Dahlia flower!

May 11, 2009 at 5:22 p.m. lissilulu

Your flowers are amazing! I love the thickness of the clay (?) and the colors that you pair with each flower.

May 11, 2009 at 5:27 p.m. SundraSandrusi


amazing flower!!!
beautiful work !

May 11, 2009 at 5:27 p.m. RiverBird

Great work! so beautiful thanks for the story!

May 11, 2009 at 5:28 p.m. Selkiemoonlight

Beautiful work, congrats on your success!

May 11, 2009 at 5:30 p.m. IcingOnTheCupcake

Your store is excellent, beautiful work!

May 11, 2009 at 5:30 p.m. PoleStar

Awesome from one WoW playing girl to another. I haven't actually played in a while b/c of my jewelry biz!

Jen

May 11, 2009 at 5:38 p.m. AmberLeaf

Fantastic Story! So inspiring and sweet! Good luck to you and thank you for the fantastic advise!

May 11, 2009 at 5:40 p.m. ToScarboroughFair

That's a very inspiring story.
And I liked the honesty about the morning program :)
Good luck

May 11, 2009 at 5:51 p.m. Minnie829

I'm very impressed! Your work is beautiful.

May 11, 2009 at 5:56 p.m. HibouCards

Again a very inspiring story! Your creations are so beautiful :)

Congrats and good luck!

:)

May 11, 2009 at 6:05 p.m. baconsquarefarm

Lovely shop and congrats on your success as well, used many of your creations in treasury's. Wish you continued success~!

May 11, 2009 at 6:11 p.m. 4TheSparrowsNest

Congrats Lauren! I've seen Fancifulform's work around the site and it is very pretty. Well done!

May 11, 2009 at 6:24 p.m. FlanneryCrane

Lovelies!

May 11, 2009 at 6:26 p.m. sugarcoffin

Lovely work!

May 11, 2009 at 6:29 p.m. mariagotijoyas

She is a great artist! :D

May 11, 2009 at 6:34 p.m. WieberArt

Lauren, your art looks good enough to eat ! As a little girl, I would wait to be served the the decorative flowers from the birthday cakes. Congratulations.

Grace :)

May 11, 2009 at 6:35 p.m. SleepDreamPlay

Such a beautiful shop.

May 11, 2009 at 6:39 p.m. mykonos

I hope I could quit my day job too!!

May 11, 2009 at 7 p.m. kirstenann

what an inspiration i would love to be able to make a living selling my jewellery,it has always been my dream to run my own successful business:)Well done to you!

May 11, 2009 at 7 p.m. mozui

it's the dream job for me, working full time on my stuff =D
someday!

May 11, 2009 at 7:07 p.m. FashionTouch

Congrats!!! I am sure everyone of us have the same dream, to successful in what you like doing!

May 11, 2009 at 7:07 p.m. myjoyquest

Love that you're making your dream a reality! What is your best advice for a mompreneur with her own startup? Anyone?

May 11, 2009 at 7:12 p.m. Studio111

I really enjoyed reading about you and how you got started on etsy. I love your roses!!!

May 11, 2009 at 7:16 p.m. Signs

congrats! You have really nice work!

May 11, 2009 at 7:34 p.m. ZeeCee

BEAUTIFUL RINGS!! I can't believe that's clay!! I am also the same way with working from the afternoon until around midnight when it comes to sewing. About a 10 hour day, but doesn't feel like work!
Congrats on all your success :)

May 11, 2009 at 7:45 p.m. OpulentOddities

Your work is just so gorgeous. At first I thought it was one of those cheap cabs, but it is BEAUTIFULLY layered clay. Beautiful work, inspiring interview. Way to go!

May 11, 2009 at 7:48 p.m. 2kute

awesome... your shop is great...
congrats...

May 11, 2009 at 7:56 p.m. sealmaiden

good for you!!

May 11, 2009 at 8 p.m. SimpleTraditions

Your work is beyond beautiful!!! Thank you for sharing!

May 11, 2009 at 8:05 p.m. EnchantedlyYours

I love your work...absolutely beautiful! Congrats on all your success!

May 11, 2009 at 8:05 p.m. Draconiskiss

fancilful! ITs about time! :) im proud of ya darlin!

May 11, 2009 at 8:06 p.m. cosmicfunpalace

Congrats on being featured! Good stuff.

May 11, 2009 at 8:07 p.m. sleepyking

Wow. Such beautiful art FancifulForm!!! Congrats! Hope to be as successful as you someday.. :)

May 11, 2009 at 8:07 p.m. thedryingrack

your pieces are stunning...as are your photos! thanks for sharing your tips ;)

May 11, 2009 at 8:07 p.m. FlyingButtons

Love your shop fanciful! And always enjoy seeing you in the chatrooms. Congrats on your success! :)

May 11, 2009 at 8:08 p.m. blendastudio

Thank you for sharing. Very inspiring!

May 11, 2009 at 8:16 p.m. MelroseFields

Beautiful work!

May 11, 2009 at 8:17 p.m. IceCreamCandy

you are very very talented:) very inspiring!!

May 11, 2009 at 8:19 p.m. GoodNightLolaSue

i love to read about someone else besides me who is NOT a morning person, and is still successful!!!

May 11, 2009 at 8:28 p.m. DeNovoStyle

Beautiful work! Thanks for sharing. Helps inspire us all!

May 11, 2009 at 8:33 p.m. LilDabDesigns

great article!!! nice to see the other side of you ty for sharing

May 11, 2009 at 8:34 p.m. Kitcameo

All I can say is, I wish. :/

May 11, 2009 at 8:44 p.m. OSEC

Inspiring...
Thanks for sharing.

May 11, 2009 at 8:51 p.m. naturalgoatsoap

I love your shop. Great article, thanks for sharing

May 11, 2009 at 8:56 p.m. moonstr

wooooodangmama!

May 11, 2009 at 8:59 p.m. sherrytruitt

Great job, Lauren. Continued success to you.

May 11, 2009 at 9:05 p.m. FancifulForm

Thanks everybody. This has been an amazing experience. I can't express in words how happy it makes me to read all of your wonderful comments! ^.^

(Hi Guys! *Waves* Hehe)

May 11, 2009 at 9:09 p.m. Deconstructress

There was never any doubt FancifulForm would be a HUGE success! Both my daughter and I own some of her beeyooteeful jewelry and everywhere we go, people ask where we got it. Not to mention the fact that she's an all around cool chick.

May 11, 2009 at 9:35 p.m. fancygapfurniture

I am just getting started with Etsy, I want to thank you for the info and the inspiration.

May 11, 2009 at 9:39 p.m. moonstr

had to cheer you on and read..
Fanciful see ya in chat:D

May 11, 2009 at 9:44 p.m. klchic

ooh.. i also need to work hard to promote my store. thanks for the story!

May 11, 2009 at 9:44 p.m. SweetPeaFabrications

Love the Large Rose! Great interview...

May 11, 2009 at 9:48 p.m. MeshaSuicide

I'm telling you, you're my idol :'D haha. Very inspirational article, specially for a soon-to-be-a-seller person like me !

May 11, 2009 at 9:49 p.m. PipocaHandmade

Wonderful story! Lovely shop!...and such a clean office too, to boot!

May 11, 2009 at 9:56 p.m. FableBay

awesome article. this is what i hope esty can be for me, my fulltime job! i just started here on etsy this month. i have sold two things, and am excited to keep it up. i have wondered around, to see how long it has taken others to really start selling, and it looks like i have a few months ahead of me, before i really will start seeing any decent number of sales. Come visit my page:)

May 11, 2009 at 9:58 p.m. courtneyannedesigns

Great story! what an inspiration.

May 11, 2009 at 10:36 p.m. AwApplesauce

Thanks for sharing! When do you manage to go to class?

May 11, 2009 at 10:36 p.m. berdandbee

we love lauren! congrats on the success :D it is WELL deserved!

xoxoxo
Meg and Bryan

May 11, 2009 at 10:37 p.m. eviemdesignstudio

Beautiful work, great story and congratulations on your success!

May 11, 2009 at 10:43 p.m. houseoftelsa

Love, love, love that Dahlia flower! Here designs are beautiful!

♥ Thatiana

May 11, 2009 at 10:45 p.m. BellyDancePrincess

Congrats on your success! What beautiful flowers! Are u able to keep up with your school work? If so, that's even more admirable!!!

May 11, 2009 at 10:49 p.m. LoriCitsay

Great attitude...all positive. I'll keep that in mind!

May 11, 2009 at 10:49 p.m. jiorji

those articles are always so inspiring! Thanks for another great article Marymary!

May 11, 2009 at 10:51 p.m. CheekyVintageCloset

Congrats, thanks for the inspiration!

May 11, 2009 at 10:53 p.m. alwaysadorable

Truly on of my ultimate favorites and a bit of idol worship! ;-) Congrats, Lauren! It is so great to see things take off so well for you! :D

May 11, 2009 at 10:57 p.m. plumprettysugar

pretty!

May 11, 2009 at 11:11 p.m. alishondra

Wow...I would love your lifestyle =D I'm very inspired now. I guess the hardest thing to overcome in the beginning is your own self doubt. I'm so happy for your success!

May 11, 2009 at 11:14 p.m. jerusha

Articles like this give me hope!!I am ooking forward to quitting my day job someday soon.Thanks for the advice!

May 11, 2009 at 11:30 p.m. ygscreations

you have an amazing talent. very unique and creative. Love the different flowers

May 12, 2009 at 12:12 a.m. PoorRobot

Wonderful! Congrats!

May 12, 2009 at 12:21 a.m. JADjewelry

Your article is very helpful and inspiring! Thank you for sharing (:

May 12, 2009 at 1:01 a.m. ExQuisiteInVitation

Kudos girly!

May 12, 2009 at 1:08 a.m. ericacavanagh

Congratulations!!!!
Hardwork,patience and talent has to pay off sooner or later...........hasn't it?????????

May 12, 2009 at 1:16 a.m. ConservationClothing

You do beautiful work.

May 12, 2009 at 1:20 a.m. BluCille

These are pretty neat!

May 12, 2009 at 1:40 a.m. theaxx

Ah, that's the life!! Wish I could do it with her.
Thanks for the inspiring post.

thea.
xx

www.forthevisionaries.tumblr.com

May 12, 2009 at 2:43 a.m. sparklinglotusdesign

Great article and beautiful work! Best of luck to you and you shop.

May 12, 2009 at 2:44 a.m. soopajdelux

i like your plant on the table
do you share your breakfast with it? (him/her)?

xo love

May 12, 2009 at 2:50 a.m. PAINTINGSBYSAM

Great Article :)

May 12, 2009 at 3:16 a.m. littlepinkpebble

i love all the quit your day jobs... sigh

May 12, 2009 at 3:22 a.m. nightcloud

amazing how the series 'quit your day job' keeps encouraging, inspiring, creating patience in all of us that are creating and trying to find 'our' customers -- thank you for sharing your experience, Lauren!

May 12, 2009 at 3:26 a.m. ireneagh

Lovely items! ^___-

May 12, 2009 at 3:29 a.m. Blakenetizen

Congrats! And yes shes a very talented and busy girl! KUDOS!

May 12, 2009 at 3:48 a.m. EasyMoney321

A Work-at-Home scheme is a get-rich-quick scheme in which a victim is lured by an offer to be employed at home, very often doing some simple task in a minimal amount of time with a large amount of income that far exceeds the market rate for the type of work. The true purpose of such an offer is for the perpetrator to extort money from the victim.
Ryan Decosta

Easy Money

May 12, 2009 at 3:51 a.m. MSHandbags

What lovely items you have. I'd give you my heart, but I already have! Another inspiring article.

May 12, 2009 at 3:54 a.m. aussiefelts

Awww Lauren! I'm so thrilled for you! Congrats to you my friend.

May 12, 2009 at 4:06 a.m. Nafsika

Amazing artist indeed!!

May 12, 2009 at 4:17 a.m. dennisanderson

dude! I knew you would totally do it :) Good Luck!

May 12, 2009 at 4:19 a.m. dennisanderson

Oh yeah, you almost nailed it on exactly one year since I quit my job too! http://www.etsy.com/storque/spotlight...

May 12, 2009 at 4:27 a.m. selfproductiondesign

Yay! Grats Lauren on the spotlight! :)

May 12, 2009 at 4:36 a.m. rustydusty

Thank you for the inspiration to keep going and Well done on your success;-) Beautiful work!!!

May 12, 2009 at 4:38 a.m. DvoraSchleffer

Very inspiring. Your work is great.

May 12, 2009 at 5:03 a.m. LushPunk

That's awesome news! May I ask how you handled the transition between a normal job and full-time etsying while studying? I only ask cos I'm juggling full-time study with part-time Etsy and part-time work!

btw - I have the exact same Darth Vader that you have sitting on your printer! Except I think yours is holding something extra? Mine only has a saber - I still ♥ him though!

May 12, 2009 at 5:50 a.m. minimummouse

Yet another fabulous QYDD! They inspire me so much.

What is EasyMoney321 talking about though?

May 12, 2009 at 5:51 a.m. rodgerlvu

yes, what a wonderful work is that...
i like them all
http://wwww.uggsupply.com
http://wwww.uggfree.co.uk

May 12, 2009 at 5:59 a.m. craftaria

I think you do a great work. Love it!

Good luck with everything.

May 12, 2009 at 6:43 a.m. AliBaliJewellery

Really inspiring!! Beautiful work..

May 12, 2009 at 6:58 a.m. sage12888

Beautiful!!!

May 12, 2009 at 7:22 a.m. deebeale

Just love seeing other peoples work spaces.

May 12, 2009 at 7:27 a.m. ikabags

Really very unique work , well done :)) bravo !!!

May 12, 2009 at 7:37 a.m. Easy123

Wonderful work and inspiring article! Congratulations for this and future success!

May 12, 2009 at 7:50 a.m. ilovehearts

I love the fruity items! So sweet...

May 12, 2009 at 9:45 a.m. PhineasandLou

This is a fun story! Your shop is awesome! I love it :)

May 12, 2009 at 9:49 a.m. TianaCHE

White rose is fabulous! Bravo! Love all collection! Thank you!

May 12, 2009 at 9:53 a.m. MeadowbelleMarket

Sigh, (smile). Ahh. This is great. One more heartfelt story of an artist living out her dream! There's no starving around here...congrats.

May 12, 2009 at 9:53 a.m. HouseHoldWords

Grats to you!

I am a girl and I too play World of Warcraft <3

May 12, 2009 at 10:07 a.m. bungalowmarketplace

Beautiful work...and original!

May 12, 2009 at 10:13 a.m. sandali

AWESOME blog -- Love to hear other people's stories. It's always amazing to embrace your passion ;) You have a great shop -- beautiful item !!

May 12, 2009 at 10:16 a.m. DalkullanJewelry

Congratulations on your success, and best wishes for the future and with your education!

May 12, 2009 at 10:26 a.m. lavenderrabbit

Awesome store! You go girl!

May 12, 2009 at 10:39 a.m. DAINTYCROCHETBYALY

very pretty!

May 12, 2009 at 10:48 a.m. IkvothaMashiach70

Beautiful things Lauren! I love etsy, it has allowed so many people to free their creative minds from the cubicle! I quit my job too, hang in there everyone, you just have to find your niche.

May 12, 2009 at 10:55 a.m. ninjareflex

Hail to the night!

May 12, 2009 at 11:03 a.m. lauracaswellstudios

Beautiful stuff Lauren. Thank you so much for the tips on getting started. It was what I needed to hear!

May 12, 2009 at 11:03 a.m. Tumus

<--------- gamer nerd
World of Warcraft for teh WIN!!!!!!

nice works and you're always a hoot in chat ^_~ gratz all around. looks like you rolled the achievement "Quit Your Day Job" you should get an awesome mount now. *lolz*

May 12, 2009 at 11:08 a.m. BeadsBySam

Very inspiring story! Beautiful beautiful work!!

May 12, 2009 at 11:30 a.m. mythunderstood

beautiful product and photos!

May 12, 2009 at 11:58 a.m. CarolineRoseArt

Well done Fancifulform, one day I dream of actually making money from my art, these stories keep me going!

May 12, 2009 at 12:10 p.m. BayMoonDesign

An interesting read!

May 12, 2009 at 12:27 p.m. LollyBopBaby

Congratulations on your success on etsy.
Your items are as unique as they are beautiful.
I am so proud of you!

May 12, 2009 at 12:34 p.m. babook

It`s very very good talking .Keep it of your way : )

May 12, 2009 at 1:25 p.m. PrairieFairyDesigns

The roses are so great. I love the ones in teal or green.

May 12, 2009 at 1:32 p.m. MyJunkyTrunk

I love these stories! Thanks so much for sharing and much continued success to you!

May 12, 2009 at 2:17 p.m. macehualli

Thank you for being so real!! about your work and how you got started. I will take your advice. I just got started and have sold my first item, Im so excited.Thank you.

May 12, 2009 at 2:19 p.m. BigHandDesigns

Great Job!

May 12, 2009 at 2:55 p.m. CustomCoffey

Very Encouraging!! I have recently opened shop, thanks!!

May 12, 2009 at 2:56 p.m. alankarshilpa

Thank you for sharing your story and your advise about patience"Just hang in there". It is so hard some times and frustrating but post like yours gives us hope. Best wishes - Dita.

May 12, 2009 at 3:51 p.m. ExoticFlavour

great story and experience, congrats! and thanks for sharing ^-^

May 12, 2009 at 3:56 p.m. missmacau

Well done! Very inspiring. I love her Lotus.

May 12, 2009 at 4:04 p.m. erinkeys

I love FancifulForum!!!! Great interview!

May 12, 2009 at 4:12 p.m. smilingbluedog

It's so nice to hear your success story!
Thanks for sharing your experience with all of us.
I'm still fairly new & sometimes feel discouraged...
these stories really help :)
Way to go!

May 12, 2009 at 4:15 p.m. piecedbycherie

I'm working hard to open my own shop and hope to one day quit my part time day job and do what I love to do when I want to do it. It's stories like yours that give me hope that I can accomplish my goals...Congratulations!!

May 12, 2009 at 4:25 p.m. Studio618

Beautiful work.

May 12, 2009 at 4:31 p.m. iDesignMyWorld

So pretty!!

May 12, 2009 at 4:52 p.m. MagnoliaFern

Nice to see a fellow young polymer clay artist quit her day job! I'm so envious of those mountains of boxes you have under your worktable!

May 12, 2009 at 4:53 p.m. CNadine

Great Shop! I love the little stud roses! Adorable!

Check out my shop for my weekly sale!

www.cnadine.etsy.com

May 12, 2009 at 5:06 p.m. journeyoflovedesigns

love the workspace! best of luck on your studies!

May 12, 2009 at 7:04 p.m. themagicalbean

Congratulations on your success!!

May 12, 2009 at 7:14 p.m. designcrushco

very inspiring!

May 12, 2009 at 7:40 p.m. papermichelle

I'm not surprised...your stuff is gorgeous. I'm always trying to fit it into treasuries since its so colorful. Well deserved.

May 12, 2009 at 8:12 p.m. CoraDesigns

Finally got here to read this great inspiring article...Love the chats fanciful form and congrats on your success..Love the beautiful flowers...CORA

May 12, 2009 at 8:19 p.m. tubbytabby

I'm just new to etsy myself and am doing a lot of research on how to promote my site. Very informative article and way to go on your success. I only hope I can do it too!

May 12, 2009 at 8:25 p.m. bizzybcreations

congrats on the feature...c u in chat!!

May 12, 2009 at 8:34 p.m. zeropumpkin

oh wow..how cool :)

May 12, 2009 at 8:46 p.m. DarkStar

I'm totally inspired. Again, another great article.

Thanks!

Heidi

May 12, 2009 at 10:59 p.m. jbirkemeierphoto

What a great article! Gave me the motivation to keep going!

May 12, 2009 at 11:45 p.m. cthings

Wonderful work!! Congrats and best wishes for the future!!

May 13, 2009 at 12:29 a.m. artdelight

Very talented, I am always impressed by self motivated individuals that are able to make money doing what they love.

May 13, 2009 at 12:48 a.m. LiciaBeads

fabulous fabulous, love the new things you have Lauren!

May 13, 2009 at 12:55 a.m. Jenifersfamilyjewels

Ooh! I have alwys loved those flowers!!! Thank you for sharing it with us marymary!

May 13, 2009 at 1 a.m. ambientgirldesigns

Stunning work!!

May 13, 2009 at 1:55 a.m. BaysideBoutique

Lovely work and a great inpirational article. As you can see, I am up at 1AM "working" on my etsy research! Thanks for your tips.

May 13, 2009 at 3:36 a.m. cleobelle

awesome Lauren well done!!!

May 13, 2009 at 8:17 a.m. feltmeupdesigns

Your work is lovely, i hope you get that bigger studio soon!

I just moved into a bigger space and it was the best feeling ever!

May 13, 2009 at 8:50 a.m. twogoodeyes

Simply stunning work. I hope to own a piece someday.

May 13, 2009 at 9:47 a.m. zombuki

Already loved her shop! So awesome to see her here too <3 the lotus' are my faves <3

May 13, 2009 at 12:02 p.m. 18ontheAlley

great story....nice to see someone else balance their art and warcraft lol :D /rawr!

May 13, 2009 at 12:07 p.m. Waterrose

Great story and one of my favorite shops!

May 13, 2009 at 1:28 p.m. guzel

It is indeed inspiring article. Congratulations!!!!!!!!!

May 13, 2009 at 1:41 p.m. ciirud

very inspiring, new to etsy and you have given me some tips. i love your creations too

May 13, 2009 at 1:56 p.m. CollectionObsession

You and your work are beautiful. Congrats.

May 13, 2009 at 2:49 p.m. embellishedlife

Yay! Good for you! One of my favorites!

May 13, 2009 at 6:25 p.m. PrudenceOctavia

that purple lotus ring is stunning

May 13, 2009 at 8:08 p.m. doyoulovelucy

I'm new to etsy..thanks so much for inspiring me. Patience is a virtue. I love that!

May 13, 2009 at 11:31 p.m. ibeautiful

I'm new to Esty...inspiring thank you! I totally agree..all promo oppurtunities should be looked at as success. Good luck!!

May 14, 2009 at 5:37 a.m. tinyspace

i love your shop, another great reading for all etsians!!
newbies, we all got to hangin there!!

May 14, 2009 at 7:09 a.m. scottshandmadecrafts

Congratulations!
Beautiful flowers.

May 14, 2009 at 9:08 a.m. preciousgemgarden

It's great to hear these success stories. I love the rose necklace!

May 14, 2009 at 9:44 a.m. GoldhawkPotteryEtc

Very beautiful work and inspiring story! I am interested in how she makes her flowers out of poly clay. Lots of great examples. Thanks...

May 14, 2009 at 1:22 p.m. camperandrea

Great story!! Congrats on your successful career!!

May 14, 2009 at 1:39 p.m. chetti

Alliance . . . or Horde?

(Beautiful work - congrats!)

May 14, 2009 at 7:42 p.m. FancifulForm

Horde! Woo! Hehe

Undead Warlock >.>

May 14, 2009 at 8:03 p.m. ArtworkbyKD

Awesome work!! I love these stories!

May 14, 2009 at 8:41 p.m. JazziesJunque

Fabulous work. Congrats.

May 15, 2009 at 12:16 p.m. jurgitahandmade

It is soooo interesting!!! Great Job!!!!

May 15, 2009 at 2:54 p.m. NinjaStyle

Gratz hun, sounds like you find yourself a nice lifestyle there!

ps. crafts + raiding = <3 ;)

May 16, 2009 at 3:27 p.m. miradora

How inspirational!! We are new here to Etsy and love hearing such wonderful success stories!

May 17, 2009 at 1:27 a.m. Beetique

i'm also new and love your shop. Your flowers are beeutiful. :)

May 17, 2009 at 2:19 a.m. JoOliveWorkshop

Good on you for making it all work! Lots of commitments, not much time and space - I can relate!

May 17, 2009 at 9:05 a.m. Liyana

I love all your works.. You had inspire me to work harder :)

May 17, 2009 at 6:33 p.m. GnageyGallery

Great to hear your success. I am new to Etsy so still trying to figure it all out. Love your flower pendants! I love to paint flowers.

May 18, 2009 at 6:26 a.m. PattysCeramics

I am new to Etsy.I to have a love for clay more, ceramics,but I do some clay work. I dont know were to start to get were you are. I loved your story and it keeps me trying, great job,

May 18, 2009 at 1:45 p.m. rosycloudfairyland

Quiting a job is easy, but getting good result online is not a piece of cake.

May 18, 2009 at 2:24 p.m. FancifulForm

*NomnomNom*

Cake... :oD

May 18, 2009 at 2:26 p.m. VividEarthDesigns

This is great fancifulform!! :D

May 18, 2009 at 2:42 p.m. Adrianasart

Thanks for sharing!

May 19, 2009 at 12:36 a.m. ABEADINBLOOM

I am new to Etsy, you give me hope!

May 19, 2009 at 3:08 p.m. artndesign

The note about patience was reassuring!!

May 19, 2009 at 11:01 p.m. sharlzndollz

Your work is wonderful and your story inspires.

May 20, 2009 at 9:48 p.m. 3brwngrls

great article!

May 21, 2009 at 7:06 p.m. ElementalByAngieZ

thank you for the article, I'm just starting out and hearing your story is inspiring.

May 21, 2009 at 8:53 p.m. Paulinasdesigns

Your work is beautiful.

May 22, 2009 at 1:54 a.m. ChristianHaylie

i have no idea how you keep your work space so neat! loved the read.

May 22, 2009 at 12:02 p.m. TripleLDesigns

Boy do I wish I had had the idea (and discipline) in college to do that! Other things were more important to me, and I sooo wish that I had had my head on straight enough to realize this is what I want to do! Congrats and keep going - you're so talented!

May 22, 2009 at 12:10 p.m. prettybows4allgirls

Hi all,
I am a stay at home Mom of 9.. I heard about Etsy this morning on Good Morning America. I am look for ideas. I sale hair bows on ebay and have just listed two items. I would like your in put to see if I need to make any changes.
Thanks Melysa

May 23, 2009 at 4:19 a.m. MyMimsies

I started with Play-Doh too! Such wisdom from one so young, it took me years to learn patience. Even now your words will help me to just keep on keeping on. I'm also deeply grateful to Etsy for making it possible and so easy to finally sell my work.

May 24, 2009 at 5:52 p.m. Jeraly

Woohoo!! Fellow gamer girl! Rawr indeed! :D

May 26, 2009 at 4:24 p.m. east4thstreet

Gorgeous work!

May 30, 2009 at 3:31 a.m. Kiie

Way to go, girl :D

June 1, 2009 at 2:03 p.m. TreeParlor

I love when someone I've hearted gets featured.

I have such great taste ;)

June 1, 2009 at 8:35 p.m. orchardfarmsoap

beautiful story for a new seller on etsy to learn about. thanks for the inspiration

June 2, 2009 at 2:32 p.m. Scarlettfox

Thank you SO much for the beautiful work, and inspirational words!

June 5, 2009 at 2:18 a.m. ThrillyKnickers

Such gorgeous work! I've put one of those rose pendants on my 'I want it' list! Congratulations, and thank you for the inspiration. xxx

June 6, 2009 at 10:16 a.m. lzubal01

very inspiring, thanks!

June 13, 2009 at 5:32 p.m. Orangeheat

Great news I'll get busy with my shop now!

June 15, 2009 at 2:04 a.m. LoveBlossomTrue

great article! thank you Lauren...and your pendants look good enough to eat.

June 23, 2009 at 2:34 p.m. FancifulForm

Hehe, Nomnom. ^.^

July 1, 2009 at 12:31 a.m. SparkleRocks

Omg! girl I had no idea you were on here like this. You're gorgeous. Miss talkin to ya in chats!

July 6, 2009 at 8:39 p.m. FancifulForm

*Update!* Join FancifulForm for a workshop on taking beautiful product photos. Tuesday, July 7th at 4pm Eastern time.

http://www.etsy.com/virtual_labs.php

July 7, 2009 at 9:46 a.m. SquierDesign

Fabulous article! Can't wait for the photo workshop in the labs today!

July 7, 2009 at 1:53 p.m. stylesbym

I enjoyed reading about you. I plan to attend the photo workshop today!

July 7, 2009 at 3:53 p.m. gr8jewellery

Congratulations on your success and wish you loads more :) Love your flowers ... really beautiful!!

July 11, 2009 at 7:20 p.m. MosaicTileBuffet

ToTaLLy AwEsOmE! What a nice writeup and what beautiful work! It's so amazing! Thank you for sharing with all of us!

July 29, 2009 at 3:24 p.m. 4jan

Great article Fanci, thanks for showing me!! Congrats on making it, I hope to sometime too! Probably was great to be featured, I hear that helps with sales too.

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