Tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is Jema (pronounced Jim-uh). Creativity has always been a part of my life. My grandmother made beautiful quilts for people and for our local church picnic. My mother was a seamstress and I would sit for hours and watch her cut out the many intricate patterns of clothing out on our kitchen table. Let's just say my three sisters and I had the coolest clothes.

How did The Badge Shack begin?

When I first started on Etsy my shop was JeJeweled. It started out as a jewelry shop. I made earrings mostly and a few bookmarks. Since I was a child I have been obsessed with fabric. From the various colors, patterns to the texture of each textile. I wanted to incorporate fabrics into my shop and so began my discovery of fabric covered button items.

At my customers' requests, I have since incorporated graphics, felt appliques and embellishments into my designs. I started selling badge reels several years ago. As I featured the badge reels that side of my business grew, leading me to only offer badge reels. My customers are the best! Thank you all so much for your business, and ideas!

Etsy is a fabulous platform for small business owners. It has allowed me to take my business beyond what I ever could have imagined. Thank you Etsy!

How do you get out of your creative ruts?

I take long walks with my husband and our beagle, Tillie Mae. My husband and I have a good sized garden and I find it good therapy digging in the dirt. Being with our grandchildren is the absolute best! My husband and I spend a lot of time in Louisville, KY visiting the many unique restaurants, museums and shops.

What would the title of your memoir be?

Just Breathe, Jema!

Where would you like to be in 10 years?

Still creating for my Etsy shop with my business partner and husband, who plays a key role in The Badge Shack. When he can fit it into his busy schedule, he creates awesome gourd designs. You can see his pieces at http://www.chairmanofthegourd.com or http://www.etsy.com/shop/gourdchairman