Meet Shepard from Alphabulous!

Today I have the pleasure of introducing you to Shepard from the etsy store Alphabulous! It is a cute and whimsical store that will help you personalize your child’s clothing (or yours if you chose!) Enjoy!Tell me a little bit about your background in arts and crafts.I have a BA in art and have taken additional classes for jewelry and mosaics. I am a “fiddler” (not the musician). I fiddle with things all the time and have a need to create new things. I love the challenge of trying to figure things out too.When did you first start creating things?I have always worked for a living so after I had my first child, I needed to do something that I could afford to do and that wouldn’t require leaving him. What were the first things you created? and how did your creativity progress from there?The first things I created were hand painted, beaded and sewn tooth fairy pillows. They were elaborate and fun but too pricey for what people wanted to pay. Then I developed my collection into things you wouldn’t see in shops or something that comes off an assembly line. I wanted my customer to feel they got something for a great price too. That’s why I love Etsy. Shopping on it is like being in a huge gallery. It’s perfect for me.How did you come up with your shop name?My twin came up with the name years ago and never had a collection to match it. I created my line and we put the two together. She is based in London and sells it on her web site and at shows under http://www.alittlesquare.com/Is this your only business or do you do other things as well?My grown up self makes jewelry and folksie crosses and sells it on Etsy too at http://www.dizzydaisy.etsy.com/. I am learning that business too. Do you still dream about making other things? If so, what? I always want to keep my line fresh so I keep looking for inspiration. I find it every day on Etsy.How did you hear about Etsy?I saw an ad in Mary Engelbreit’s Home Companion and couldn’t believe it really existed. I could live my dream without having to own an actual store front, hire people and make risky investments. And it only costs me 20 cents!! It is fabulous. I enjoy logging on every day.Any words of advice to others? Get inspired, make friends with fellow Etsians and most of all just do it. I know that sounds cliche but you’ll never know ’til you try. And it’s fun!How will the new law by CPSIA affect you and your shop?I was so amazed at how that law was written. I know it meant well but I hope the kinks will be worked out by this time next year. I will have to use certified “lead free” fabrics and adhesives. And if they don’t exist I will have to change what I sell. I can’t afford to do all the testing it requires. It’s too much.I love Etsy Baby and thinks it’s such an important team on Etsy. – Shepherd
I hope you all take a few minutes to browse through Alphabulous and add some fabulous items to your wish list!