Feature Friday with Kathy of Kathy's Kountry

 

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

My shop name is Kathy’s Kountry. I chose this because I have a love for all things country, even though I was born and raised a city girl.

2. How long have you been on Etsy?

I joined Etsy in December 2012, so have been on Etsy less than 1 year.

3. What type of items do you offer?

I have a wide variety of items. I offer painted vintage repurposed items, lighted glass blocks, vintage items, and whatever type of item or craft interests and inspires me at the time.

4. How long have you been crafting?

I have been crafting for as long as I can remember. I have gone through and continue to go through many different cycles, from ceramics to crocheting to wood items, and many other crafts in between. 

5. Who or what inspires you?

I get inspired by items I find, by things I see, by other crafters, and ideas that just come into my head. Sometimes I can look at an item and just get a picture of what I want to do with it, but sometimes I have to do some research to get inspired. 

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

I think my favorite item in my shop is any of the painted barrel staves. These are from wooden barrels that were left in my garage when we purchased our house. I have had ideas about using these for a long time, and my husband finally dug them out and I was able to take the barrels apart and use the staves. I have been looking at them for so long, and thinking about what to do with them, and finally being able to paint on them makes me happy. I love their rustic look. 

 7. Other places where you can be found?

Right now only on Etsy.

www.etsy.com/shop/KathysKountry

8. How do you describe your artistic style?

I think my style is quite an eclectic mix, some folk, some rustic, some primitive, some country. I do what I like without pigeon-holing myself to any one style.

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

I am working a full-time job, so have to craft whenever I have the time. I try to work on crafting every weekend, and at least several times a week in the evenings. I use my crafting as a time to relax and be creative.

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

Do what you like, and what inspires you and makes you feel good. If you don’t, it is not enjoyable. If you do what you like, your passion for your craft shows in your work.

11. Tell a bit of personal info about yourself.

My husband and I live in a century home in a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio, with our two rescue dogs. I am an animal lover, and a supporter of rescuing animals that would otherwise not have a home. I have a vegetable garden, and love trying different vegetables in the garden each year. I learned how to can, and do quite a bit of canning of items from my garden. I have worked in a law office for 40+ years, and am looking forward to retiring in the next several years, so I can devote more time to my gardening and crafting.