Etsy's Handmade Blog
Quit Your Day Job: julipbags
Story by julipbags, marymary
Published on September 21, 2009 in Spotlight 		Photo by

julipbags

Amby, the self proclaimed Type A personality behind JulipBags, has been able to successfully quit her day job in the mental health field to focus all of her energy on her bag business, which is now bringing home the bacon. After finding herself at a point where she could either dial back on her Etsy business or quit her day job in order to fuel its budding growth, she made the decision to become her own boss. Keep reading to find out why Amby takes being her own boss seriously, how she filed for a utility patent and why buying a BlackBerry has been one of her best business moves to date.

Come on by and chat with her Wednesday, September 23 at 4 p.m. ET in Etsy's Virtual Labs.

How did you originally get into the business of making things?
I’ve been making things for fun and gifts for as long as I can remember, but my first creative business was when I started my own wedding photography business seven years ago while also working a full-time day job. I loved the work, but eventually it was too exhausting to work full time during the week and then shoot a wedding all day Saturday and sometimes Sunday too. I couldn’t do both, and at that time, the day job took precedence.

I started Julip Bags just over two years ago when I made a Roman shade for our living room window and remembered how much I LOVED to sew, then discovering how many gorgeous fabrics are out there now! I love bags and purses and already had quite the knitting bag collection, so it was a logical next step. I found out about Etsy from all the reviews on Lime & Violet’s podcast, checked it out, and discovered what a wonderful platform it was for an online crafty business.

When you first started selling on Etsy, did you have dreams or goals of eventually quitting your day job?
Honestly, not at first. My husband JP is a chef, and I was working 9-5 in the mental health field. We don’t have kids, so it started more as a way to keep busy since we had such opposite schedules, and to provide a little extra spending money. I was genuinely shocked when I sold my first bag just a couple of days after opening up my shop. I was also very attached to the security of a steady paycheck...the idea of not being able to pay the bills is a sure-fire way to send me into a full-on freak out.

Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time?
I didn’t really do anything that I hadn’t been doing all along. I had a DBA (Doing Business As) and sales tax license from the start, and I do my own bookkeeping with Quickbooks. I’ve treated Julip Bags like a business from the beginning, even if it was a part-time one. When I did start having “Wow, I would love to do JUST THIS full time!” thoughts, I bought a BlackBerry, and it’s absolutely the best business investment I’ve ever made, right on up there with my laser printer! With an online business in a global economy, people want responsiveness from a seller or else they’ll go elsewhere. With my BlackBerry, I’m immediately notified of all new sales, Convos, and emails. If I’m not at home, I can respond from my BlackBerry so I often have people comment on how quickly I respond to inquiries. I also have my own dedicated working area; for a while I had my workspace in our kitchen, but then I took over our larger guest room so now I have physical boundaries to contain the chaos.

I actually quit my day job at the dumbest possible moment from a logical standpoint. We live in Metro Detroit, my husband had been unemployed for several months and had just taken a new job with a significant pay cut. My day job was bringing in the majority of our income AND our health insurance AND was fairly secure in a very insecure economy. I had come to the point where I could either do Julip Bags full time or back off it, because I had reached my limit juggling both at once. At that time, I’d invested so much in bringing Julip Bags to where it was, I couldn’t imagine scaling back. So I took a deep breath, gave notice to my boss, bought a bottle of champagne and went home to give JP the final word. He was incredibly supportive although I know he probably questioned my sanity more than once, and my family and friends are the greatest support system anyone could ask for. There is no way I would be where I am without their unwavering cheerleading and support, and I will never be able to thank them enough!

What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What's your best marketing tip?
I have to be completely honest, I owe so much to the knitting community, it’s very interconnected and online-savvy. You can make or break a business on word of mouth alone, between knitting groups, blogs, podcasts, online forums, and now Ravelry. It’s an incredibly supportive worldwide group that supports and nurtures, one that other mediums don’t necessarily have.

My most effective promotion, marketing, and advertising has been through Ravelry, hands-down. The only paid advertising I do is through Ravelry, I have a fan group there, and it’s an incredible gateway for real-time feedback, suggestions from my customers, questions, etc. I also have a Facebook fan page since Ravelry can only be accessed by members at this time.

My main advice to others is to be confident in yourself; when people ask what I do for a living, I don’t dither about “Oh, I have my own business,” I confidently tell them that I’m a bag designer and then go on to explain from there. I always carry an example of my work, have business cards and don’t hesitate to hand them out, as do my friends and family. Being shy about tooting your own horn will not make sales, you have to be willing to do the legwork to get your name out there. I would also suggest that you try to diversify and stay keenly aware of customers’ needs while staying true to your vision for your business…in my knitting bag shop I have dog poop bags! Designer bags for poop! But they’re one of my customers’ favorites!

What have you found to be an unsuccessful promotion?
I’m on Twitter now, but I don’t think I have enough interesting things to post to really garner a following. I’d just rather read other people’s Tweets. I also used to give donations for contests, giveaways and doorprizes for anyone who approached me, but I’ve learned to review these requests with a critical eye and ask myself if it will actually benefit my business. Sometimes they’re totally worth it, sometimes I know it would be smarter to list that bag for sale in the shop than to give it away.

Walk us through your typical workday.

  • I normally wake up around 8 a.m.; I do my blog-surfing, emailing, and other quiet stuff before JP wakes up. While he takes our two Jack Russells for a walk and gets ready for work, I’ll start packing up any orders that came in overnight.
  • After he leaves for work around 12:30, I head down to the post office, come back home, put Pandora on the computer and really buckle down to work. I try to make bags a day ahead of listing, so first I’ll take photographs outside in my light tent and list items.
  • Then I’ll start making new bags, and that keeps me busy for the rest of the afternoon. Our Russells wake up and start demanding playtime around 5 p.m., so I’ll stop for dinner and try to either take them for a walk or play ball in the backyard.
  • After that I usually pop a movie into my laptop and finish up the bags for the day. I wish I could say that I drop work when JP gets home between 9:30-11, but oftentimes I’m still working while he relaxes after his day.
  • When I first started doing Julip Bags as my full-time job, I planned to take off Mondays and Tuesdays with JP, but that has definitely not happened.  I don’t have any set days off now, but if I’m genuinely in need of a break, I don’t feel bad about catching up on business necessities and then kicking back to knit or going out for sushi and martinis with friends. Letting go of my Type A personality guilt for taking time off has been hard, but I know I need it to be productive and creative.

What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?
Aside from being my own boss (and who doesn’t dream of that?!?), I like that the buck stops with me. I call myself the Owner, Chief Creative Officer, and Chief Grunt because ultimately the success or failure of my business is up to me. Not my supervisor, not my lazy coworker, ME. So many people have told me that I need to hire help, but I would never be able to truly relax without being completely in control of every aspect of my business and knowing that it’s all up to my standards. And yes, I’m a control freak, but I’m okay with that.

What's the hardest part about running your own business?
The main thing is the lack of a guaranteed paycheck and health insurance. We just found out that it will cost too much to add me to JP’s insurance through his job, so I’ll be paying to self-insure. It’s tough, but it’s doable as long as you have a written budget and stick to it. Additionally, it’s ALL up to you, even if you’re exhausted or sick or dealing with crises in your personal life, you still have to make your product, market it, provide customer service, etc. if you want to continue to sell. Not having someone to lean on for nitty-gritty help is the flipside to being your own boss!

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself? What advice would you give someone else?
I would have stockpiled a lot more money! Although, in retrospect, if I’d waited until I genuinely felt that I could take the plunge, I never would have done it! My advice is to always treat it like a business, even when facing that reality is big or scary or uncomfortable. Just a couple of months after quitting my day job, I found myself in the position of hiring an intellectual property attorney and filing for a utility patent. Talk about WHOA! My friends and family pay full price when they buy a bag. I don’t answer the home phone, do laundry, or wear my pajamas while I’m working. This IS my full-time job now, and I treat it as such.

Don’t be afraid to form collaborations with other Etsy artisans! I have a blog with two friends called The Boss Knits about the ups and downs of indiepreneurship. Also, get out of the house…working from home can be very isolating and lonely, so be sure to recognize when you need to get out of the grind and be around real people! It will re-energize you and give you that deep breath of fresh air that you need!

What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year for your Etsy business?
I really want to start doing craft shows regularly, I’ve already taken a step in that direction for the holiday season. Other than that, I’d just love to keep coming up with new designs and providing the best customer service I possibly can! I’m blessed with a very loyal customer base, and I want to make sure I live up to their expectations!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Always take your business seriously, because if YOU don’t, no one else will. But at the same time, don’t forget that YOU are the living breathing heartbeat of your business and take care of yourself accordingly! And finally, don’t lose sight of why you quit your day job in the first place…it’s so unbelievably rewarding that I can’t even imagine going back to the corporate grind!

Thanks to Amby for sharing her story. Have your own questions to ask? Come on by and chat with her Wednesday, September 23 at 5 p.m. ET in Etsy's Virtual Labs. 

You can see some of Amby's beautiful work in the Related Items. Check out previous Quit Your Day Job posts here.

Tags Bags and Purses, Detroit, doggie bags, full-time, julipbags, Julip Bags, knitting bags, Michigan, Quit Your Day Job, Ravelry, sellers, selling, Spotlight, SPOTLIGHT, workflow, working
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229 comments     Login to add your own!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:31 p.m. fernfiddlehead

You go, girl. I really enjoyed this.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:36 p.m. LuminousDreamDesigns

Great interview! Thank you for sharing your tips and experiences!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:38 p.m. zaperoco

Lovely bags.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:38 p.m. jezek

wow! very colorful!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:40 p.m. Gingeroni1

cute bags. I enjoyed the article. Best of luck to you..Kathi

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:40 p.m. theLostEarring

Enjoyed reading this :)

Awesome poop bags!!!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:41 p.m. mazedasastoat

Love the dog poop bags, no need to feel ashamed carrying one of those around!

Wishing you continued success for the future, as well as little more quality time to spend with JP & the dogs!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:41 p.m. BabbidgePatch

Wonderful ~ so nice to meet you, Amby! Thanks for sharing your story ~ continued success to you!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:41 p.m. sherrytruitt

Lovely interview, best of luck to you and your husband.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:41 p.m. Greenbriar

Very inspiring!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:44 p.m. nuevodesigns

Thanks for sharing your story. It's great to hear your experience. It's inspiring for me as I am new to Etsy.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:46 p.m. LoellaMedina

I loved reading your story! Thank you for sharing with us. Best of luck!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:48 p.m. LoellaMedina

I loved reading your story! Thank you for sharing with us. Best of luck!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:49 p.m. KnittingTime

A great read and great advice! Very inspiring.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:54 p.m. beautifulbridget

Excellent story!! Thanks for sharing it with everyone and best of luck!!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:58 p.m. aBreathofFrenchair

Great story and I love your bags!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:58 p.m. SewnNatural

your enthusiasm for what you do and what you craft shows through :) thanks for sharing

Sept. 21, 2009 at 4:58 p.m. clubviv

lovely!!!!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:02 p.m. HarrietsHaven

Good job Amby! I love the dog-walking bags....clever, and cute!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:03 p.m. DreamzBoutique

WOW lovely items..

check this one and you will love it
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?...

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:04 p.m. ChloesRuffleButt

Thanks for sharing! You do great work. Congrats on your success!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:07 p.m. specialknz

Thankyou for your inspiring interview, your comment about 'taking your business seriously bc if you dont noone else will' rings very true with me!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:09 p.m. theferngate

You are an inspiration to me! What courage!! Thanks for sharing your story.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:09 p.m. VixVintage

Thank you Amby, I enjoyed reading this. I too quit my day job to go at it full time, I have not looked back once.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:10 p.m. 1beadweaver

It is great to hear another Etsy person share their journey. Thanks!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:15 p.m. PurseParts

What a great inspiration and a beautiful product! I love your patterns! Congratulations to you!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:16 p.m. twcreations09

I think do what we love full time is what alot of us dream of. It is great to hear these success stories. Love the bags! Thanks for the inspiration!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:25 p.m. BluLima

Inspiring! Best of luck to you:)

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:26 p.m. suzybluebijoux

Lovely story - loving what you do - here's to your continues success xxx

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:26 p.m. danielabesso

lovely items!! all the bests

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:26 p.m. PhoebeDea

Great story and great advice! Thanks!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:29 p.m. EJPcreations

God I love these articles! So inspiring!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:36 p.m. worksandfinds

Good luck Amby. I'm so inspired. Love love love it.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:37 p.m. aprilfoss

GREAT story!!! Congratulations on all your success and best wishes for the contiued success!!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:49 p.m. violavintage

I love your bags and really enjoyed reading your story.
It is inspiring to see how someone has achieved what I am working towards.
Well done!!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:55 p.m. CheekyLemur

Reassuring to know that it can be done. Wish you all the luck.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 5:57 p.m. KIMMSMITH

A great inspiring story, I wish you lots of success for the future too!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 6:02 p.m. janicej

Thanks for sharing!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 6:10 p.m. warpedLaurie

Your story gives big smiles. Good job, boss lady.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 6:12 p.m. sakizome

Lovely story and gorgeous bags! Way to go!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 6:12 p.m. ArtDecoDame

best of luck and lovely bags!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 6:14 p.m. sweetoliviadesigns

Awesome work! Congratulations on your success!!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 6:16 p.m. LaraLeighDesigns

So Inspirational!!! Thanks for sharing :)

Sept. 21, 2009 at 6:20 p.m. collagesheetgirl

wonderful bags. great work

Sept. 21, 2009 at 6:37 p.m. lovelygifts

Great article. Congrats!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 6:40 p.m. beachhouseblues

Great bags! Love these stories!!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 6:46 p.m. MoonlightAura

Nice!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 6:48 p.m. That70sShoppe

Wow, always great inspiration to hear about how others have made their businesses successful. Keep the stories coming.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 6:51 p.m. kjaerpedersen

Merci... just returning from Paris and need some inspiration to pay off this big bill... I thank you....

Sept. 21, 2009 at 6:55 p.m. zebracakes

I love hearing success stories like this!!!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 7:01 p.m. pinkytoeclothing

Beautiful bags and wonderful article.Thanks!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 7:07 p.m. laralewis

great advice! best of luck!! :)

Sept. 21, 2009 at 7:39 p.m. MinceCo

it's always an inspiration to hear these stories, thanks and well done

Sept. 21, 2009 at 7:46 p.m. breadandroses2

Always enjoy hearing how others make it work! Good luck!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 7:54 p.m. TomBjornDesigns

Great story and amazing items! really inspiring :)

Sept. 21, 2009 at 7:54 p.m. metrostation

vey interesting I love all the advice very inspirational!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 8:23 p.m. DowntownGirlDesigns

Very inspiring story :)

Sept. 21, 2009 at 8:31 p.m. PantieRaid

AWESOME!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 8:32 p.m. Nocatsallowed

Love your story and your bags!!! Thank for inspiring me.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 8:40 p.m. PipocaHandmade

Lovely article and totes! I love the cute sign on your door!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 8:41 p.m. GarageInc

That's everybody's drean.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 8:42 p.m. ifanhour

Wonderful interview, continued good luck!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 9:03 p.m. concepcionjewelry

Thanks for the encouragement! & inspiration.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 9:10 p.m. Pinkdawn

Wonderful advice and lovely bags :)

Sept. 21, 2009 at 9:11 p.m. lulumoon

Inspiring and practical! Good advice, and great bags! Thank you!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 9:11 p.m. thestorageroom

Great article and I love the Dog Poop Bags. I think I need one. It would be a great for my 3 dog household and a bonus of supporting a fellow Metro Detroiter.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 9:19 p.m. Lolavintage

Inspiring, and so creative! I love that you're a fellow Mitten State gal too! :)

Sept. 21, 2009 at 9:20 p.m. gardengate7

Great story and good luck with the insurance.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 9:20 p.m. SlimHands

Thank you for sharing your experience!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 9:20 p.m. reddogknits

How awesome are you! Greats shots and great interview! Well done!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 9:25 p.m. beadsandbits

Lovely bags from a lovely seller! Keep up the good work, and thanks for another inspirational story!!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 9:38 p.m. ThePattypanShop

This is so inspiring!!! Love those bags.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 9:53 p.m. missprettyperfect

That was a great, quick read that inspired my socks off!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 9:53 p.m. CuddleBuggComforts

This article made my day! It gave me some energy to go to "work". I love the tips and the final product packaging. Absolutely lovely! Thanks.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 9:54 p.m. RoseKnits

Oh Amby! I'm so proud of you!!! Fabulous interview!!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 10:01 p.m. mamaerikaevan

Love the bags. The story is so inspiring!! Now I feel full of hope! Thank you!!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 10:17 p.m. bhangtiez

What great advice & a great story! Thanks for sharing & keep up the amazing work! U'r pups r cuties!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 10:58 p.m. delightdesignbiz

Great interview! LOVE the shop!!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 11:04 p.m. LittleCritters00

very uplifting story. I really hope to get there one day. I have alot of the same fabrics. Great taste

Sept. 21, 2009 at 11:05 p.m. RedeemedVintage

You're an inspiration! Thank you for sharing your story.

Sept. 21, 2009 at 11:31 p.m. fancibags

I am so proud of you...I hope that I will be able to do the same ting...wish me luck!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 11:35 p.m. luckystitches

That was a great interview. Really helpful, insightful and inspirational. Thank you!

Sept. 21, 2009 at 11:59 p.m. thedifferentdrummer

Good for you. I am hoping that my sales will pick up and I'm just learning to navigate through etsy and all it has to offer.

Sept. 22, 2009 at 12:22 a.m. lostandfoundart

great advice and cute dogs!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 12:28 a.m. asimplesmile

Very cool! I am just getting started ...

Sept. 22, 2009 at 12:42 a.m. theweddingcontessa

I love your leap of faith! It takes courage to believe in your talents and to pour all your energy into making it successful. Way to go!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 1:10 a.m. misohappi

congratulations amby! your story gives me much hope
& encouragement. thanks.

Sept. 22, 2009 at 1:30 a.m. robinmcneil

I'm also from the metro Detroit area and enjoyed your Etsy success story. I think that your bag designs are wonderful.

Sept. 22, 2009 at 1:53 a.m. StudioZen

What a fabulous success story.

Sept. 22, 2009 at 3:07 a.m. spacejam

i love reading these articles. Congratulations and best of luck to you =)

Sept. 22, 2009 at 4:03 a.m. GgaBulShop

GREAT story!!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 5:10 a.m. Karramandi

Fantastic article.

Sept. 22, 2009 at 5:29 a.m. whimsicalpaperdot

GREAT article !

Sept. 22, 2009 at 6:20 a.m. ColorfulCasual

This is a dream come true, and I loved reading about it.

Sept. 22, 2009 at 6:37 a.m. emmieloustudios

Great bags and so inspiring!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 6:47 a.m. jenniferlynnstudio

Nothing like some inspiration to get the day started..Good luck and much success to you, Amby!!!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 7:04 a.m. chocolatecreative

Well done!! And thanks for this article, I am hoping to do the same soon!!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 7:41 a.m. peekboutique

Such great advice. Thank yo so much for sharing your story. Such an inspiring way to start the day! :-)

Sept. 22, 2009 at 7:43 a.m. bijouxdellostregatto

Beautiful bags! Thank you for sharing !

Sept. 22, 2009 at 8:01 a.m. ThePaperTray

Thanks for sharing your story! I wish you much continued success!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 8:33 a.m. SimpleJoysPaperie

Congratulations on your success.
You have lovely products!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 8:53 a.m. feltonthefly

So nice to meet you, "neighbor"! I'm in Lake Orion. Great story. Inspiring!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 8:54 a.m. monkeyandsquirrel

super congrats! your bags are absolutely adorable :)

Sept. 22, 2009 at 9:07 a.m. FluteTeacher

I enjoyed reading this. Thanks for sharing!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 9:09 a.m. CityChicCountryMouse

Thanks for sharing your inspiring story! I hope one day to take the plunge and quit my day job :) Congrats on all of your success!!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 9:15 a.m. FashionTouch

Great Interview! I am always so happy to read about someone who could realize the dream! Thanks for sharing your practicies and glad to know one more Jack Russel Fan:))

Sept. 22, 2009 at 9:44 a.m. fabfabrique

very inspirational - thanks, amby!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 9:46 a.m. SissysArt

What an inspiration! I was laid off from my day job. I have started taking my etsy business more seriously and good things are starting to happen.

Sept. 22, 2009 at 9:53 a.m. SpingirlFiberarts

Congratulations! I have two of your bags (a spindle bag and a sock knitting bag) and I love both of them. Your story is inspiring, especially since I lost my day job last month! BTW, I have a Jack Russell Terror too. They're the best!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 9:53 a.m. girltuesdayjewelry

Very inspirational article! I love these "quit your day job" stories! Love your bags! Best wishes for your continued success!!!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 9:57 a.m. SewBeans

Amby, you make it sound do easy!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 10:08 a.m. DalkullanJewelry

Enjoyed reading about you and your shop Amby, and wish you continuing success!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 10:11 a.m. ooty

Lovely!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 10:50 a.m. ragadoos

I love your fabric choices, thank you for this inspiration!!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 11:12 a.m. MyMoms

Great colorful bags! I love them all! Thanks for sharing!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 11:48 a.m. strawberryona

Love the bags and the great advice!
Thanks.

Sept. 22, 2009 at 11:56 a.m. KJoannRussell

Thanks for the inspiration and the reminders to stick to the business basics.

Sept. 22, 2009 at 12:27 p.m. KittyCityCreations

Great advice! And cool bags!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 12:41 p.m. paramountvintage

cute bags and cute packaging!!!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 12:41 p.m. lucky0girl0racer

Really great article! Congrats to you!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 12:49 p.m. pamwares

Congrats and fabulous shop and bags!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 12:57 p.m. GrayFlannelDesign

Very cute bags and loved the interview. Congrats on all your success!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 1:21 p.m. Iammie

Very neat work!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 2:01 p.m. SummerTriangle

Thanks so much, I really enjoyed reading and very good advice :)
Congrats!!

p.s. LOVE the vampire bags! :)

Sept. 22, 2009 at 2:10 p.m. chineseart88

very helpful advise,thank you

Sept. 22, 2009 at 2:30 p.m. mgmmama

I love the last pic of how you wrap your merchandise. I think nicely done packaging is so important. Love your choices of patterns and fabrics as well!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 2:52 p.m. thefrenchfleashop

You have a great product. Thanks for your good advice and I love your packaging!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 3:30 p.m. SepiaSmiles

Wow!

This is the best 'quit your day job' that I have read!
Packed full of useful advice.
Thanks for sharing with us :)

Sept. 22, 2009 at 3:48 p.m. kellykramer

thanks for sharing! you're truly an inspiration!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 4:07 p.m. silverpuss

4 months ago I would have laughed if someone had told me I d have my own shop on Etsy,I am glad I saw this story as it has given me a much needed confidence boost.Thanks for sharing your story and good luck for the future,love,Silverpuss,

Sept. 22, 2009 at 4:35 p.m. lavenderrabbit

Great article! Love the bags.

Sept. 22, 2009 at 4:42 p.m. ALittleXtraSomething

Thank you so much for sharing! Excellent write up and CONGRATS to you!

Happy Sewing & Happy Sales!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 4:43 p.m. softboiled

Thanks Amby for the Ravelry info. I recently started knitting again, and have finished 2 projects already. I almost forgot how much I doing it. Am excited to join the knitting community!

Photos of my scarf, under wearables/accessories/scarfs
http://www.mimshi.com

Thanks again!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 4:43 p.m. RomanceCatsAndWhimsy

Congratulations Amby on becoming your own boss! That's so exciting. Thank you for your words of wisdom and sharing generously about how you've made selling on etsy your day job. It's really a dream come true.

Sept. 22, 2009 at 4:43 p.m. Furiousdreams

Loved this article- and thanks for saying that you take yourself seriously. Seems to be the biggest hurdle for some folks. Right now I'm craving a Blackberry...

I'll be on my way over there at some point to get a cute doggy poop bag for a girlfriend.

Sept. 22, 2009 at 4:50 p.m. retrofied

A beautiful and inspiring story!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 4:59 p.m. JiSTdesigns

Inspiring! (as i sit here at my day job...)

Sept. 22, 2009 at 5:03 p.m. magicwrd

Your interview was very helpful. I intend to put it to good use. I am still trying to figure out how to market my business and you have given me some good ideas. Thanks!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 5:04 p.m. XimisModNest

Awesome, inspirational story! I hope to follow in your foosteps!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 5:04 p.m. JulieWebb

Excellent story, you're very inspiring! :)

Sept. 22, 2009 at 5:09 p.m. Yonita

Lovely story and I love the bags!!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 5:12 p.m. invernessstudios

Great bags and LOVE the fabrics!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 5:29 p.m. Selkiemoonlight

very inspiring advice on taking yourself seriously. thanks very much for sharing your story!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 5:30 p.m. suzannekagan

wonderful story. Something we all dream of

Sept. 22, 2009 at 5:35 p.m. malem

thanks for sharing! I have been my own boss for 20 year now, for illustration, web design and programming, computer art. I just opened a new etsy shop for my glass art! thanks for your advices!!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 5:44 p.m. SilknLightsdesigns

Love your bags and your story. Thanks for sharing,and for all the advice.

Sept. 22, 2009 at 5:48 p.m. sweetiepiesuite

Hi Amby! thanks so much for this great interview! I really enjoyed hearing your inspirational story and can't wait for the day I can be my own boss too!!
Toni M.

Sept. 22, 2009 at 6:01 p.m. Aye4Art

Thank you for sharing your story! I too make bags of a different sort! I love to see someone else who loves to do what I enjoy! I'm just starting the Etsy thing so your tips will be taken to heart!
Robin

Sept. 22, 2009 at 6:15 p.m. itsmythingdesigns

Awesome story! Thanks to ETSY for sharing Amby's tips for success and spotlighting her wonderful creations. I always come away a little wiser when reading about all those talented people out there. PS I really love Amby's Dog Poop Bags. What a great idea!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 6:43 p.m. JustineJustine

thank you for telling your story, its great recognize some things and be helped with other things!!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 6:48 p.m. iamhome

thank you so much for sharing your advice, it is really helpful!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 7:04 p.m. phoenixcuties

Ok, NOW im inspired!!!!!! What a talent!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 7:07 p.m. Decadence2artbar

Lovely interview...I assume though that you sell elsewhere besides Etsy? Maybe your own website or at shows?

Sept. 22, 2009 at 7:08 p.m. cardinalhouse

Great advice! Thanks! Love the bags

Sept. 22, 2009 at 7:10 p.m. yaybrand

Thank you for your honesty. Sometimes it's difficult to be positive AND honest at the same time. Though I am still young, I am thinking of starting my own business and this has really inspired me. Thank you.

Sept. 22, 2009 at 7:14 p.m. sunshadow

You create a beautiful product and sounds like you have a great work ethic too - i have a feeling your business will just keep growing :-))

Sept. 22, 2009 at 8:25 p.m. cleobelle

wonderful story, love your work!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 8:32 p.m. kittybeans

Living the dream! I so home one day I can get there too, and I am working hard to get that!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 8:57 p.m. smallandmighty

loved hearing your story. thanks for sharing!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 9:14 p.m. FabFindsVintage

I respect your FOCUS!! Congrats on having your own business! :)

Sept. 22, 2009 at 9:19 p.m. SecondHandNews

Beautiful Bags. Congratulations on your success. So inspiring!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 9:29 p.m. nikhajewelry

Thank you for your inspiring story! Wonderful!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 9:57 p.m. BizzieLizzie

Lovely bags! I had to self insure for me and Lizzie when I quit my day job - almost a year ago! You can do it girlfriend! Best of luck to ya!!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 10:24 p.m. fancy

very inspiring! My long term goal is to be able to switch to part time at the hospital and focus more on the things I LOVE to do. Your bags are great :)

Sept. 22, 2009 at 10:40 p.m. photocardsbyjimmy

I quit my job a few years ago, and although I have my own business besides my new Etsy business, I like to read stories of those who have done the same thing. Way to go!

Sept. 22, 2009 at 11:10 p.m. BelladonnasJoy

Congratulations on your success and your courage to take the plunge and determination to make it work. You are really an inspiration. Thank you for all your wonderful tips.

Sept. 22, 2009 at 11:19 p.m. HollywoodVintageGlam

Great info, thanks for sharing!
DollfaceBettys

Sept. 23, 2009 at 12:05 a.m. 51art

Thank you for this. It always helps to hear another person's journey down this road. I agree with you that this is a business. I use a ical to plan out my week to help stay focused (like I used to do when I had a corporate job). Continued success!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 12:15 a.m. bojosmom

I loved this article! Gives me hope:) Thanks for sharing

Sept. 23, 2009 at 3:42 a.m. monaw

Thank you for sharing - it´s inspiring and your way is a motivation to keep on going with my business.
And by the way: these dog bags are just great - what an idea!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 3:45 a.m. SerendipityVintage

Wow -- you just gave me the kick in the butt to treat my "hobby business" and a real business. Thank you!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 3:57 a.m. LavenderField

I really loved this article. So inspiring! And the bags, of course are beautiful.

Sept. 23, 2009 at 4:43 a.m. ovgilliesdesigns

Gorgeous products & inspirational story! Thanks a lot for sharing!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 5:08 a.m. Krystyna81

wonderful - congrats!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 6:03 a.m. starwickcandles

Super interview! Thanks for the inspiration!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 6:57 a.m. SweetPeaFabrications

great interview! Love the bags, love the inspiration!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 7:07 a.m. sakuradesu

Great article! I loved reading it! Thanks so much for sharing your experience.
Your work is very pretty.

Sept. 23, 2009 at 8 a.m. germandolls

Great bags! All the best to you and your business!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 8:04 a.m. VintageHand

Great profile, super tips, and cute bags!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 8:11 a.m. lovejill

very inspiring story...you are my hero. I'm not giving up!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 9:51 a.m. TerrierTrousers

I am inspired more then ever and enjoyed your interview. I look forward to the lab today too! Congrats!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 10:17 a.m. EmilyBeeHandmade

I'm not surprised you were able to quit your day job. Your bags are beautiful. I can already think of a couple of people I want to gift them to. Congrats on the article.

Sept. 23, 2009 at 10:33 a.m. TatusWelle

I am super encouraged to actually start doing what I really want to do after reading your story!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 10:40 a.m. AprilFranceneDesigns

Thank you for a very inspiring article! I too, live in Metro Detroit and have been in business for one year. I commend you for having the courage to follow your passion. Keep the faith...your bags are beautiful!!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 10:40 a.m. recycledwares

Congrats on the success!! You do have an eye for fabric.

Sept. 23, 2009 at 10:42 a.m. KMSORIGINAL

Very inspiring, thanks for sharing! I wish the same luck to everyone commenting on this article!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 11:36 a.m. 1AEON

Job well done!!! :)
welcome to the club!
go girl!!!!!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 11:51 a.m. mysaturnalia

Just fanned you on FB. Great article!!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 12:22 p.m. michon

congratulations on your success, great bags!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 1:13 p.m. EENCArt

Thanks for your inspiring story, good luck with everything and keep making the world more beautiful!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 2:07 p.m. foxette

I'm so glad for you for the success you are having - beautiful bags!. Your story is an inspiration and encouragement! Keep on keeping on, and may you have continued success doing what you love.

Sept. 23, 2009 at 2:38 p.m. divababy

I'm inspired!! Congrats on the success!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 2:39 p.m. underoakstudios

Great! Thanks for sharing. Your stuff is great.

Sept. 23, 2009 at 3:21 p.m. sarahndipities

i love all your insights! Thanks so much!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 4:31 p.m. Squier

Great article & great lab!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 4:50 p.m. mojospastyle

love these articles and the virtual lab was very helpful

Sept. 23, 2009 at 5:17 p.m. kookyhandbags

I have to say...Amby is awesome! I just saw the Virtual Labs and she gave great advice! I think i have learned a few new tricks thanks to Julipbags!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 6:12 p.m. silverWARES

Great bags and such great fabrics. Love the bright colors that cheer you up and make you want to get out just so you can show off your bag!!

Sept. 23, 2009 at 6:24 p.m. joannebassett

Great story..great bags...all the best..

Sept. 23, 2009 at 9:34 p.m. StudioMo

Awesome interview. I enjoyed reading and think that your dog poop bags are a super idea! I love all the fabrics you use as well. I wish you continued success. Melissa. :)

Sept. 24, 2009 at 12:05 a.m. unicorncrafts

reading this was therapy! i was freaking out and worrying about all the things you spoke of until i read your interview full of encouragement and advice!! Mahalo~

Sept. 24, 2009 at 4:49 a.m. lauratoal

Great interview very encouraging, as i have just gone part-time in my day job to spend more time working on my etsy shop.

Sept. 24, 2009 at 7:58 a.m. den10studio

Yay, Julipbags to all your success!! Your article made my day and got me thinking "don't give up, I can do this" -so very inspiring. I recently got a Blackberry too and absolutely love it!

Sept. 24, 2009 at 9:15 a.m. pm084

Good luck to you! Reading success stories like yours gives me hope!

Sept. 24, 2009 at 9:57 a.m. RememberMeDesigns09

Thank you for sharing your story! I enjoyed reading it. Good Luck with your future endeavors!

Sept. 24, 2009 at 10:02 a.m. christinadimeo

Inspiring! Thanks for sharing!

Sept. 24, 2009 at 11:40 a.m. billyandwinston

Great interview!

Sept. 24, 2009 at 1:18 p.m. CreationsdeFlorence

Wonderful article. Very inspiring. Love the bags too! Great choice of fabric.

Sept. 24, 2009 at 11:15 p.m. rosiparri

Thanks you are very articulant! Good read.

Rosie Parris

Sept. 25, 2009 at 10:36 a.m. AFlairForPaper

Very inspiring, and beautiful bags (even for us non-knitters). Best of luck!

Sept. 25, 2009 at 9:35 p.m. katieanneclothing

Thank you so much for the inspiring article and beautiful work!

Cheers!

Sept. 25, 2009 at 9:58 p.m. SarahJoyful

I love the shop! Its inspiring to see shop owners doing what they love and making a living at it! Very inspiring!

Sept. 26, 2009 at 7:08 p.m. SewSweetStitches

Great advice! I like the tips for daily routine, I need that!

Sept. 27, 2009 at 9:24 a.m. MyPatternedMind

This was such an inspirational read! I'm currently preparing for a job as a professional in the mental health feild while thoughts of just giving it all up and pursuing my Etsy shop linger in my head :) It's great to see someone in a similiar position have such success. Awesome read!

Sept. 27, 2009 at 7:43 p.m. TuscanBlooms

You are awesome!!!! Great to read about people who love their line of work!!! Your shop looks great and I def may get a poop bag!!!! :)

Sept. 28, 2009 at 8:03 a.m. fibrefelt

Wishing you continued success, & thank-you for all of the tips which will be useful for me as a newcomer. Your interview provides great motivation.

Sept. 28, 2009 at 12:20 p.m. JoJosgems

Good tips and a great shop. Well done you!

Sept. 28, 2009 at 11:32 p.m. cthings

Congratulations and you make very nice products!! Glad to read about your story. Continued success to you!

Sept. 28, 2009 at 11:50 p.m. ThePlumTree

Congratulations! What an insperation!

Sept. 29, 2009 at 10:58 a.m. cassidycay

Thanks for sharing your story!

Oct. 1, 2009 at 7:31 p.m. PamlicoBee

This just reinforces to me that it can be done. It is so neat when people can quit their day job and not have to work for the man. Your bags are great!!! Thanks for sharing your story.

Oct. 3, 2009 at 10:07 a.m. lmgboutique

Great to hear when others can do it. It gives me hope! Your items are so nice!

Oct. 3, 2009 at 1:32 p.m. 2Martha

Great to read your story it gives me a lot of hope and I truly believe that when you feel you're ready for it (anything) you should just do it even if it's not the 'right time' and the universe will support you.
You go girl, your bags are great!

Oct. 7, 2009 at 6:55 a.m. twokidsstudio

very nice handmade bags! :) great work!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 3:26 p.m. marquina

Beautiful bags! Also, it is very encouraging to hear from someone else in Michigan who is doing their own thing. I'm still recovering from having a baby 10 months ago - I'm 40 - but I hope to be joining you soon in "quitting my day job"! Keep up the great work!!!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 7:47 p.m. Handworks3

I am a fulltime crafter,too-thanks

Oct. 21, 2009 at 9:39 p.m. jdizaclothingco

I really hope to God that I would be in that position where I don't need to apply for jobs or attend job fairs but where I can actually work full time from home and make enough to be well off!

Nov. 10, 2009 at 10:57 p.m. laura1953

A main stumbling block for me is health/dental insurance. If I quit my day job, it will become a significant monthly expense. (As is the case for many others in my position!)
Do you know of any insurance companies that cater to small business owners or craftspeople/artists? Your input would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks, and best of success and happiness in your work!
Laura

Nov. 18, 2009 at 5:45 a.m. patchlings

I loved your interview...thank you so much for sharing it....you are truly inspirational...especially to a newbie at Etsy....and I adore your bags...they are gorgeous.......

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