I was looking for a kit to do after this week-I'm pretty tired of "designing" right now-King Pod is about a week away from being updated and I'm craving to just do a project where I can follow directions and not be so CREATIVE. I dug in my pattern box and pulled out a kit from Gail Wilson, a mini dress form for doll clothes. (I never seem to make dolls only doll accessories) I was curious to see if she had a website-and boy did she ever! I get a little CRAZY for all the mini doll sewing notions, quilts, pin cushions,ironing boards, etc. I sort of bugged out last night about all the goodies she has. Not to mention the bunny and animals patterns above.
These are all available as kits (most supplies included) and I am super impressed with all the information she provides with how to's, supplies, and biographical information on her site. Wow. When you have a bit of time-it's really worth a look-even if this style isn't your cup of tea-tons of great doll/animal making info. Also-very cool business ideas like-
1.she does ONLINE classes, which sound very interesting and beneficial
2.sells finished dolls, patterns, and kits, so she can attract any level of crafter.
3.offers licensing agreements for people who want to make and sell her designs.
4. travels and teaches workshops all around
5. offers "clubs" which are monthly patterns/kits sent out with a good price break
I'm always looking for craft/art business models and this site is full of ideas from someone who seems to have a clear vision, design aesthetic, and general nice vibe. She's also been doing this a long time-and I have a soft spot for catalogs that have all drawings, no photos, like hers and Magic Cabin.
Pete had a good point too, when seeing the site-he said "you always want to buy things from people who are willing to give so much away for free" and he is so right. The generosity of how-to's (like the free download of a sample online class!) and accessibility of the craft-person/artist is so great-a very inspiring site for me to find.
