The process of starting my business happened quite organically. Growing up in a family of artisans, craftspersons and entrepreneurs in Decatur, GA, I always felt I had an artsy soul. As an avid DIY-er and lover of all things crafty, I knew I wanted to do something career-wise that incorporated all of my passions.

In 2007, I acquired a BFA in Interior Design from the University of Georgia and ended up working for several interior design firms in Georgia, Connecticut and Massachusetts. I loved designing spaces for clients, selecting materials and furnishings, but ultimately found myself wanting to be more hands-on with my art and to share my creative passions with a larger audience. In 2009, I bought a single sewing pattern from another Etsy artisan for a women's fabric wallet to make and give as Christmas gifts to my family and friends that year. In the process, I ended up teaching myself to sew and the obsession began!

In 2010, I set up my first online shop here on Etsy. J. Carter Handmade is a one-woman show, backed by the loving support of my wonderful husband, Daimon, and young son Johnathan. All of my items are individually handcrafted to order in my home studio, and then packaged and shipped right to your door. I try to purchase all of my supplies locally within the United States, and truly enjoy the entire creative process - from the pattern making and design work, to the photography and packaging of my products. (I even use my Interior Design background to draft my sewing patterns in AutoCAD ;)

While I still design interior spaces on the side, I have found I have a true passion for accessory design. Designing an accessory is like designing a room in a way ... but portable, and all wrapped up in one tiny package! My hope is to have all of my products not only reflect my own sense of personal décor, but to evoke personal style in everyone that owns one of my items.

Cheers, and thanks for stopping by!