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How PrettyDarnAdorable got started
Introduce your Etsy shop and tell us your story. How did you begin and decide on what to sell on Etsy, and how do you create your products?
When I started designing back in 2009, it was something to pass the time, a little something just for me to do as I raised my family. At the time, I had no idea that I would completely fall in love with it as much as I did. I opened my Etsy shop in November 2009, selling finished items that I had made through trial and error. I had never been able to read traditional patterns, so I started creating my own.
Quickly, people were messaging me and asking where I had bought the pattern for the caps and baby hats I was selling at the time. When I told them they were my own design, I had many requests to write them up. At that time, my designs used unusual textures that were not commonly used for hats. So I quickly wrote up the patterns and started selling them. and it has been a passion ever since!
Favorite items
What are your favorite items? What makes these so special? Why do you think these items might be selling well?
The Fisherman Throw and Bernat Blankets are my favorites. The Fisherman Throw has a knit-looking texture, which I love, and the Bernat Blanket Throw works up incredibly quickly, and the yarn is super cozy. These are my top sellers. I think these blankets fit pretty much any decor, which makes them a good choice for many people regardless of their personal taste and style.
Getting sales on Etsy
How long did it take for you to earn your first sale and how do you currently attract customers to your Etsy shop?
When I was selling finished items, it took about 2 days. At that time, I didn’t do any kind of marketing. Now, though, I have a blog, a YouTube channel, and use Pinterest. I do have Instagram and Facebook, but I'm not extremely active on those platforms.
Managing PrettyDarnAdorable
How do you manage your shop? Are you running solo or do you have any team members? What tools or services do you use to run your shop and how do you handle fulfillment?
My shop is run entirely by myself. I use my cell phone for everything, from videos to photos. I have a proper camera, but with so much to do, my cell phone is much quicker. Because I only sell digital downloads now, everything is managed through Etsy.
The future of PrettyDarnAdorable
What goals do you have for your shop in the future?
I want to design more decor patterns. People really seem to love them, and I make a lot of homemade items for my own home. I love the way the textures are showcased on blankets and throws.
Advice for new sellers
What’s your advice for a new seller starting an Etsy shop?
Be unique! When I opened my shop, I offered designs that no one else was doing at the time. I was number one in Canada in my niche three years running, and I truly believe that it was because no one else was selling designs like mine. Don’t get discouraged, and don’t compare yourself to anyone else. There are a lot of people out there telling you to spy on your competition. I completely disagree. Be unique, and only compare yourself to yourself. Be content with your progress and understand that it will take time.Be smart with how you use your time; mostly, it is good to learn, but don’t spend all your time learning; you need to move forward and take the steps to sell. When you see progress happening, ramp up and ride the wave.
