Feature Friday with Cane River Crafts

1. What is the name of your Etsy shop and why did you choose that name?

I named my shop Cane River Crafts for two reasons. Firstly, it happens to be where I live - along Cane River in Burnsville, NC. Secondly, it sounds very rustic and country.

2. How long have you been on Etsy?

I joined Etsy on February 6, 2011

3. What type of items do you offer?

I primarily offer finished handmade primitive and country home decor which includes soft sculpture, wreaths, and wall hangings. You never know for sure what you'll find in my shop, however. I like to try everything and if it comes out fabulous, I'll put it in my shop! I am also branching out slowly into providing more patterns and supplies along with my finished pieces but I will always consider myself an artist first.

4. How long have you been crafting?

I have been crafting since I was old enough to hold a pair of scissors. My mom was an amazing artist who created the most gorgeous needlework and ceramic pieces. She also sewed most of our clothes when we were little and made doll clothes for our Chatty Cathy and Barbies. I don't EVER remember seeing my Mom sitting in her chair without some project in her hands. 

5. Who or What inspires you?

Obviously my Mom was my first and strongest influence. I've had different mentors along the way who helped me develop other skills and interests. I spent some time in the floral industry both as a florist working with fresh cut flowers, and also as a designer in a silk flower workshop. Since moving to North Carolina I discovered the world of primitive and folk art. The natural beauty of the mountains inspires me as do the MANY talented artists who live in this community. I have to give a nod to the ALMIGHTY who has blessed me with the talent to be able to recreate what I see or can imagine.

 6. What is your favorite item in your shop and why?

Right now my favorite is my Circus Giraffe. Partially that's because he's my newest and I haven't gotten tired of looking at him yet, lol. Mostly it's because he is my most ambitious project to date and I am so pleased that I got the precise antique effect I was trying to get. 

7. Other places where you can be found (Ebay, webstore, blog)

Adding a blog and website are both on my lengthy to-do list.

8. How do you describe your artistic style?

Primitive with a touch of the whimsical.

9. Do you have set days or times to work on your craft?

No, I pretty much work on it all the time. I'm like my Mom. I never sit still without having some project in my hands. I do it because it's what I love to do.

10. What words of advice would you give others or to someone just starting out?

Be patient. I have gone months on end without sales. It takes time to build up your inventory and to help people to find your shop. Also, I would advise a new seller to JOIN THIS TEAM!!! I credit OFG with increasing my exposure and sales dramatically in just the few weeks I've been a member. Thank you~!!!

11. Tell a bit of personal info about yourself.

I spent most of my life in Dallas, Texas but lived in Austin, Texas and Flint, Michigan before settling for what I hope will be the last time in Burnsville, North Carolina (about 20 miles north of Asheville, close to the Tennessee border).  I am on my 2nd marriage. I was married to my first husband for 20 years. We have 2 beautiful girls who are now 21 and 27 years of age. My 2nd husband brought 8 children into the mix - 4 girls and 4 boys - all grown now (thank goodness!!!) and we now have 9 grandchildren. 

We live out in the sticks in a big ranch house with our 2 dogs (a blue heeler and a basset hound) and 2 cats. I had a pet pig for a while but she got too big and didn't much care for staying in her pen. I was terrified that she would escape and uproot the neighbors' gardens so off to a breeder she went. I like to imagine I now have grand pigs somewhere.

Thanks for the fun interview!  It has been great to have you on the OFG Team!

Kim can be found here:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/CaneRiverCrafts?section_id=11523065