Etsy Seller Interview with Maria of StudioWowToysUA

How StudioWowToysUA 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?

I'm Maria, owner and designer of Studio WOW. I create crochet patterns for toys and décor. My crocheting began as a creative outlet when I was home with my young child. At first, these were small keychains crocheted according to free patterns. Over time, I realized that I could add something of my own to the patterns. And one day I decided to create my first designer toy from scratch.

The first author's crocheted toy was a rattle bunny. I shared a toy on Instagram. People began to ask how to crochet such a bunny. The quarantine for COVID-19 had only recently begun.Many people were sitting at home and didn't know what to do. And I took a chance. I wrote my first pattern. And then I realized that this is really what brings me happiness. My outlet. Thus began the story of Studio WOW.

Favorite items

What are your favorite items? What makes these so special? Why do you think these items might be selling well?
Speaking of my favorite patterns, they are definitely the Plague Doctor, the Bunny in the Pot, and the Christmas Cat. They are funny and quirky. Buyers love creativity and something new and unusual. I think that's why these designs have been popular for a long time.

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?
It took a couple of months from the opening of the store to the first sale. But as a beginner, I don’t wait for any quick sales. In the beginning, the main source of customers was Facebook and Instagram. But the more I explored Etsy, the more customers found my store through the site.

Managing StudioWowToysUA

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?

I do everything myself, including pattern writing, photography, client acquisition, and promotion. I have to study a lot to understand all this. But I like it. My husband helps with the designs. He also helps with some technical issues. And the most important thing is his support, which has remained unchanged all these years.

In my work, I often use Canva for banner design, cover design, etc.

The future of StudioWowToysUA 

What goals do you have for your shop in the future?

Create more unique patterns that will be recognizable and stand out from other stores. There are also plans to expand the product line beyond digital items. 

Advice for new sellers

What’s your advice for a new seller starting an Etsy shop?

Don’t give up if sales don't happen immediately after the store opens. Need time
Don't be afraid to ask friends and family for help. It's very hard to do everything yourself.
And learn a lot. Improve your skills and never stop.