I’m in love with Volume Twenty Five’s prints. They have the sweetest messages and the illustrations are so well done. They are printed on archival natural white canvas which is great because it’s bendable, so shipping safely is even easier, canvas paper is stronger and more durable then other papers and the depth and color of the finished product is truly amazing, and very crisp! Read below for more about the artist in a excerpt from our interview in 2008.

How did you get your start?

I started selling my artwork in a previous etsy store called SparksFly last August? I had originally opened the store to sell my photography, but I ended up designing packaging for other etsy sellers, and was staying WAY too busy. It was then that I decided to pick up an old passion of mine… drawing. I really had no photoshop experience whatsoever, but knew how to use a pencil. I listed a few finished pieces, and it turned out people were interested, and buying. It was like a dream come true. I decided in January to take the plunge and start fresh with vol25. I feel very fortunate that things have picked up and stayed fairly constant ever since opening. Many people ask what the story is behind the name vol25. In January of 2008 when I opened the doors to my little shop (via etsy.com) I was 25 years old, and vol25 was like opening a new volume in my life, which in turn has created several new chapters for me.

What is the best part of running your own business?

Being able to do 90% of my work at home in my pj’s, with my daughter in my lap.

You create so many wonderful pieces. Where does your inspiration come from?

Thank You! Clothing stores inspire a lot of my color combinations. Lately, quotes have been inspiring an entire drawing. I also have a huge collection of Martha, Real Simple, and Domino Magazines, they inspire me as well. My husband is also a constant source of inspiration, he is always encouraging me to try something new.

You’ve been very successful at selling your designs online, what advice would you give to other designers that are just starting out?

I sure do. Don’t expect the sales to come immediately flowing in… but be optimistic about your work, and believe in its potential. Have a plan mapped out, and definately be prepared to spend a little money advertising. Search blogs that seem to target your audience, and inquire on advertising. Many blogs will host giveaways that bring in a ton of exposure, and you would only be out that one product you donated.

Read my entire interview with Jessica here.

vol25.etsy.com

I’m so excited to be bringing back my interview installment and what better way to do it than with one of my favorite fashion bloggers! Jessica Schroeder takes gorgeous daily pictures of her outfits and features them on her blog What I Wore.

When and why did you create What I Wore?

I was already taking daily photos for wardrobe_remix on flickr and felt like I wanted to go into more details about my outfits. I eventually added other features and it just keeps growing!

What is your gig outside of your blog?

I just quit my job to focus on blogging and working as the creative and community director for weardrobe.com

How did you get your start in the fashion industry?

I majored in Apparel Merchandising at Indiana University and also did an associates degree in Costume Construction Technology. I went on to intern with Betsey Johnson and then worked four years a designer for a small apparel firm doing mass market!

Do you have any formal training?

Yes! The program at IU taught us everything from sewing to pattern drafting, hat making and tailoring. I taught two semesters as an assistant there as well.

Who are some of your favorite designers and fashion icons?

I love any nod to the past so I love Milly and Orla Kiely. I love old Hollywood stars like Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn and will always have a place in my heart for the Diane Keaton/Annie Hall look.

You wear a lot of vintage. What is your favorite era and why?

I can’t narrow it down to one, so here it goes – I love the 1950’s housewife (like Madmen’s Betty Draper), the 60s mod chic (Edie Sedgwick) and the 70s Annie Hall type looks.

Name 5 wardrobe staples you think every gal should have in her closet.

Great jeans, movie star shades, go to little dress (not necessarily black), great, walkable high heels and a signature necklace.

What trends are you looking forward to trying this Summer? Any that you will stay away from?

I can’t wait to rock the rompers!! I’m really embracing childlike/naive chic looks like patent leather sandals, friendship bracelets and high waisted bright shorts.

In this economy everyone is cutting back on the non essentials, Do you have any tips on staying fashionable when you are low on cash?

Rework what you already have, shop thrift stores or just go on a spending freeze!

What are your favorite music/books/magazines/blogs at the moment?

I like Lula, Lucky and Teen Vogue for fashion. I like community sites light weardrobe for big doses of a lot of different styles.

What advice would you give to aspiring bloggers and fashionistas?

Take your time and grow slowly. Just focus on what you love, not what gets you a lot of traffic. When the field is so large, you’re going to do the best by being yourself!!

Where do you see yourself and What I Wore in the next 5 years?

I’d love to keep up with the daily photos and eventually do a coffee table book – wouldn’t that be grand??

For more Jessica visit whatiwore.tumblr.com

How did you get your start?

Well, I guess I got my start by just going for it. Working my way up in a larger company was never an option for me; I’m just too stubborn and independent for that kind of dynamic. I never worked for another designer or even had an apprenticeship. I had to make my own opportunities and learn the in’s and out’s and up’s and down’s of the business by trial and error (emphasis on the error!!). Getting my line started was all about going full steam ahead with my ideas and my passion and not having to conform to contributing to someone else’s vision. So I guess you could say I got my start in jewelry by mixing a healthy amount of faith with drive and stubborn tunnel vision!

Sprawling Hibiscus Necklace in Gold : $85.00

Do you have any formal training?

Yes, I actually went to college for this! I attended The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City and studied in the Jewelry Design program.

When and why did you create your business?

I started my line in the Spring of 2005 while I was still in school, but at that time it was much more of a side gig where I could have a little fun and make a bit of money. In the spring of 2006 I got serious about creating a definitive style and brand with my jewelry. I started my business basically because I NEEDED to. I am a very creative person and I might even have a twinge of A.D.D. so a regular 9-5 type of job was just not in the cards for me. I’ve always had the desire to work for myself so when I got into jewelry it was only natural for my obsession to also turn into my profession!

Has it changed at all since you began? How?

I’d say it’s changed in the sense that as time goes on I am more of a business professional/artisan than just an artist. I’m more focused on branding now. The longer I do this the more I see the importance of being professional, presenting myself and my jewelry as something more than just my artsy hobby but as a legitimate and desirable product for those who are looking for something besides what you can find in a mall kiosk. My style is always evolving as well, as I get older I think my designs have become more refined and focused than they were when I was just starting out.

What is the best part of running your own business?

Having to only answer to myself and having the creative freedom to put my energy into something I believe in. I also love making my own hours! I don’t know if I could ever adjust to a typical 9-5 job at this point!

Flowering Palm Necklace in Silver : $85.00

And the worst?

Well, when you work from home, you never leave work! I never really have a true day off; I’m always doing something related to my jewelry. I also do my own finances, and I am not a math girl so that is one thing that I absolutely loathe, but it is a necessary evil I suppose!

You create so many wonderful pieces. Where does your inspiration come from?

I take most of my inspiration from nature. It always comes back to organic flowing lines and images from nature. I love fashion but I am not really interested in incorporating trends into my designs. I love to people watch as well and I will often get inspired by a person walking down the street, their style, their body language. I kind of start to create this background story and then think “ok, what kind of music does she like, where is she going…etc, etc, etc. For me, it’s all about injecting personality and originality into every design I do, even if it is something really simple, I want it to reflect my point of view.

Who is your favorite indie designer?

I got to be honest here and say…I don’t really have one! I am a very eclectic person so I’m really open to checking out all indie designers and supporting them when I can. I really love sass & bide though and I do have a soft spot in my heart for Botkier handbags.

What was your most recent indie buy?

I just bought an awesomely fun pillow from Miso! It is a black and white poppy seed throw pillow and it’s now a part of a black and white themed office/guestroom I have at home! I absolutely love it! All of Miso’s home decor items are great and really wonderfully crafted!

Teardrop Scrolls Necklace in Gold : $75.00

What one thing couldn’t you live without?

I couldn’t live without my Mac Laptop! It is my lifeline! I feel like I’m on it 24/7 answering emails and researching suppliers and websites. I also couldn’t live without my little miniature Dachshund, “Mel”, she is my baby!

What music/books/magazines are you into right now?

Oh no, a music question! I am a music freak so this could easily become a list of 75 artists! But right now I’m really into The Raconteurs, Sufjan Stevens and old school Billy Joel (my guilty pleasure!)

What advice would you give to other designers that are just starting out?

I would say, listen to your heart! That sounds so cliché but really, you know best where it is you want to be and how you want to get there. Don’t let too many people cloud your vision as an artist. It’s easy to let others opinions warp your point of view. Design for yourself first and worry about people’s opinions later. Also, embrace your fellow indie designers! It’s not all about competition and money; you need to be open to networking and trading tips and ideas with designers in your niche. Some of the most valuable relationships I have in relation to my business are with other indie jewelry designers, or indie designers in general. Being able to bounce ideas off someone who has walked in your shoes is worth its weight in gold. Be willing to help people out, it’s good karma. And again, don’t get all wrapped up in being ruthlessly competitive with other designers, it doesn’t paint a pretty picture of you or your business.

Where do you hope you/your business will be in 5 years?

In 5 years I’d love to see A.N. Original expand into stores across the United States and worldwide! I’d love to see my line getting press regularly. I’d like to see my Internet sales increase as well. My goal is to solidify my place in the jewelry industry. Does that mean I want a distribution deal with Macy’s? No, not really, I like to do things on my own terms and I’m looking to really make a name for myself without sacrificing my point of view, my ideals or my soul! I’d love to branch out into some other accessories in the future but can’t even begin to think about that right now! I want to continue to improve my skills and evolve stylistically.

Surrounded Lotus Earrings in Silver : $129.00

Do you have any new projects on the horizon?

Just working on possible press opportunities and constantly working on new designs to keep my line fresh and exciting! I’d love to hook up with some musicians on some cross promotional deals as I have done in the past, anytime I can mix jewelry and music I totally jump on the chance to do so!

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received regarding your business?

The best piece of advice I’ve ever received regarding my business and my jewelry was from a former professor of mine at F.I.T., Chie Terratani. He would always say, “Don’t rush.” He is a man of few words, but he is always right. That seems like such a simple concept, and it is, but it’s infinitely important. I apply his “don’t rush” philosophy to my designing, to my metalwork, to growing my business, and everything else. It’s not a race to the finish, and it’s really not about how fast I can achieve success, it’s more about putting everything you can into something you love and allowing yourself the time to grow and hone your skills. Quality not quantity.

www.anoriginaljewelry.com

p.s. Don’t forget to enter to win our contest where you can win your very own Surrounded Lotus Necklace by A.N. Original Jewelry!

How did you get your start?

I’ve been crafting in general all of my life, and in the last few years have targeted my focus on jewelry design after taking some classes at the local bead shop. Afterwards, a friend of mine started up a beading group, and it’s really helped me to grow and nurture my interest in designing pieces that everyone can enjoy.

Blomstra Necklace : $74.00

Do you have any formal training?

Nothing too formal. I’ve always had an appetite and eye for design in general. With the jewelry design, I’ve taken more classes at the local bead shop to learn techniques and also teach myself through trial and error with books and tutorials. It’s a constantly evolving process, in the next few months I’m going to be learning silver fusing and hope to expand on that and incorporate it into my designs. I plan to be learning my entire life, and intend on doing metalsmithing and lapidary work within the next five years.

When and why did you create your business?

I created Liebling Designs in April of 2008. Once I strung my first necklace (even though it was horribly ugly) I was hooked. I’ve been driven by the fact that when jewelry shopping, I can never find exactly what I want for a reasonable price. Through making jewelry for myself and simply wearing it around, I’ve received multitudes of compliments from friends and even strangers and realized that I could have a future in doing what I love. It’s the perfect marriage of my passion for fashion and design, with my desire to innovate and create new and interesting pieces that are affordable for people.

Has it changed at all since you began? How?

It’s hard to believe it could have changed much in three months, but yes it has. At first, I was simply playing around and testing the waters, seeing if my items would sell on Etsy. As soon as I made my first sale, I quickly realized I was all wrong where I was placing value. I was thinking it would be nice to have extra cash, but suddenly that changed to a feeling of “Wow! Someone likes my jewelry!” and the high that came from that far surpassed any monetary gain. This shift made me serious about Liebling as a business, as something I could mold into my life’s work. As a result, I’ve come up with a business plan and have also really tightened up my style. I’d like to offer eclectic jewelry, but with a distinct style to it and I think that is showing up more and more in my work.

What is the best part of running your own business?

The excitement of gaining momentum and the independence that comes along with it. It’s an amazing feeling to be working hard doing something I love instead of working hard doing something that will simply pay the bills. I’m thrilled about turning my passion into my livelihood.

Petra Necklace : $31.00

and the worst?

All the anxieties that come along with being a new designer. Am I spening my marketing dollars in the right place? Is it me, or is it the economy? Am I good enough? I haven’t made a sale in a little while, what can I do to change that? Also, starting up is hard work, much more goes into it than meets the eye.

You create so many wonderful pieces. Where does your inspiration come from?

Everywhere I look. Sometimes, modern architecture. Other times, museum pieces or artwork. Fashion, color schemes, and eras. Geometry, rose gardens. The inspiration is limitless. I say everywhere because as a creative person, I’m always thinking about design, I’m always seeing patterns and color schemes all around me and try my best to capture moods and moments in my designs. Music is also a heavy influence.

Who is your favorite indie designer?

Oh wow. There are so many. If I have to choose just one it will have to be Stefanie Japel, author of “Fitted Knits“. I learned to knit this past winter and adore her designs, plus I really admire her for designing knitting patterns with some modern flair, and just love how most of the patterns are knit in the round.

What was your most recent indie buy?

I purchased a cute little wristlet from CharmDesign. It’s a darling floral design in purple, orange and yellow. Perfect little bag for my ID, cell phone, sunglasses and lip gloss. I adore it!

Le Cirque Earrings : $21.00

What one thing couldn’t you live without?

Music. I’d be a very sad girl without my music. And chapstick.

What music/books/magazines are you into right now?

For music, some of my favorites are Tom Waits, Nellie McKay (love!), New Pornographers, Arcade Fire, My Morning Jacket, TVOTR. I’m liking the new Beck album and the new Coldplay right now too. Books, I read everything, my favorite author is Tom Robbins. This summer I haven’t been reading as much as normal because Liebling is how I spend my free time in most cases. Magazines, I like Rolling Stone and Mojo but don’t have any subscriptions or anything. I also like fashion magazines like Vogue.

What advice would you give to other designers that are just starting out?

My best advice would be to choose your business name very very wisely. It’s no fun to change it midswing. Also, lay the groundwork before you start selling your items and come up with a clear business plan so you can go into it with a clear path. I’ve wasted a lot of time and a little money on jumping into things without a focused plan. Also, relax and have confidence in your work and don’t undervalue it.

Where do you hope you/your business will be in 5 years?

In five years, I plan to be able to quit my day job and focus on Liebling full time. I hope to have a dedicated studio of my own outside of our flat, and hope to have my line picked up by some major retailers.

Victoriana Necklace : $36.00

Do you have any new projects on the horizon?

I’m going to be doing some work with shrink plastic, and will be adding a line of affordable modern pendants to my collection. Also, we’ll see if the silver fusing class results in new inspirations, I’m really excited about manipulating metal and forming my own beads and pendants this way.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received regarding your business?

The singlemost best piece of advice is to have a business plan. I know I keep saying it, but if you are going to be serious about making your dream a reality you should have a solid plan in place where your goals will come from. It doesn’t have to be elaborate, but know where you want to go and how you will get there or you will waste a lot of time. There are some wonderful free resources for small businesses out there, use them! Aside from that, my hubby telling me to “Go for it!” was an awesome push in the right direction!

LieblingDesigns.etsy.com

How did you get your start?

Well and truly from the start! I have always been creative from the word go probably because of an overactive imagination. I was a total tomboy and not afraid to get mucky. I always loved art and drawing at school, a picture is worth a 1000 words the teachers would say.

Russian Dolls Bag : £28.00

Do you have any formal training?

I did fine art and textiles at college (A-Level) but thats about it. After that I didn’t do any creative projects for a long time, just little bits here and there.

When and why did you create your business?

I was actually working on another online shop and I was always so in awe of all the stock I’d get it. I used to daydream about designing my own line of bags and accessories. October last year I kept getting ideas and drawing loads and loads of pictures that I thought would look cute on bags and things. So I took the plunge and started working on it and by May this year my little online boutique was open for business.

Has it changed at all since you began? How?

Well its all just the beginning still so I’m really excited about future prospects. It’s very thrilling and amazing.

What is the best part of running your own business?

Being your own boss and being as creative as you like!

and the worst?

I’m loving it all but I would say paperwork. You also have to be prepared to have no free time and to accept that you may not be making huge profits to begin with.

I Love Tea Brooch : £6.50

You create so many wonderful pieces. Where does your inspiration come from?

Thank you. Things just jump out at me at me most the time, or they just click in my head. I’m always inspired by my childhood toys and memories, and food! lol! I love adding the blushing cheeks and winking eyes to everyday things like a tea cup or cake and it adds cuteness instantly. They are my little blushing buddies.

I also love nostalgic pieces you find at carboots or odd little shops. I’m working on some lovely fairytale and circus designs at the moment.

Who is your favorite indie designer?

There are so many talented designers and makers out there……..

I love Lynda Lye, creator of the Little Odd Forest Boutique. Her notions are very similar to my ideas, just whimsical quirky oddities that make you smile.

What was your most recent indie buy?

I bought this lovely handmade unicorn necklace from etsy. Etsy is a minefield of wonderfull bits and bobs.

Billie Fawn Cosmetic Bag : £12.00

What one thing couldn’t you live without?

Materialisticly it would have to be………my toothbrush (+ paste), ooh that was hard, so many things were flashing through my mind ha!

What music/books/magazines are you into right now?

ooh ok Music, I love the Tings Tings right now. I always love listening to movie soundtracks like Practical Magic or something. Love love David Bowie and the music in Juno.

Books would have to be Harry Potter! haha, and I like books by James Herbert and occasionally some chic lit. I also like looking at crafty books.

I’m trying to cut down on magazines but I’m partial to a bit of Glamour!

What advice would you give to other designers that are just starting out?

Go for it! and promote promote promote. Most of all believe in yourself and remember why you wanted to do it in the first place. You also have to love what you do as there is a lot of hard work and long ours involved.

Where do you hope you/your business will be in 5 years?

I would like to have a whole range of goods for fashion and home. I’ already working on some clothing designs and some interior pieces. I would also like to open a little boutique in London or Brighton or somewhere funky.

Bettie Biscuit Wallet : £16.00

Do you have any new projects on the horizon?

I have some weekend bags, clutch bags, coin purses, pocket mirrors designs in the making…… watch this space.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received regarding your business?

The best thing for me was that I had family and friends who rooted me on and believed in me. So I would say believe you can do it and get yourself out there as much as possible.

www.kategarey.com

How did you get your start?

I started when I was pregnant with my son. I got really into handmade body products, then rediscovered glycerin soapmaking. It suits my need for instant results and creativity!

Neopolitan Soapsicle : $8.00

Do you have any formal training?

No. I just goofed around until I started figuring things out. I got a book once but it was pretty basic.

When and why did you create your business?

In February 2006 I launched a website, but then discovered Etsy which is where I did all of my business until just recently. Etsy was so much fun!

Has it changed at all since you began? How?

Oh my gosh – it’s always changing! I added a shopping cart to my own site a couple of months ago and pulled out of Etsy to try to simplify my life a bit. I’m a WAHM with 2 kids and the feverish pace of Etsy was not fitting in with my day! So now I blog and do more advertising than I used to.

Confetti Soapsicle : $8.00

What is the best part of running your own business?

Making my own hours for sure. And doing whatever I want! I was in the corporate apparel world for 10 years so I’m glad to be independent now.

and the worst?

The stress of not knowing how much profit I’ll be bringing home! Ugh!

You create so many wonderful pieces. Where does your inspiration come from?

I am inspired by many things, but mostly by images I find online and in magazines. I love fashion trends, interior design, the food network, and flickr!

Who is your favorite indie designer?

Oooooh…. tough question! Gosh, I can’t pick one. I love many designers for all different things they do. But here are a few: A Little Hut, Stoopid Girl, Pukashell Creative, Bird Nerd, Everyday is a Holiday, Kup Kup, My Paper Crane, Orange Peel Enamel, and Rik Rak Creations. There are many more! I hate to leave anyone out!

Nilla Sammie Soapsicle : $8.00

What was your most recent indie buy?

I got some awesome custom package tags letterpressed by Joie Studio for my new line called The Soap Lab. Her work really added the elegance I wanted!

What music/books/magazines are you into right now?

Domino Magazine. I love when I get a new one!!

What advice would you give to other designers that are just starting out?

Try lots of things when it comes to selling and advertising. The more you experiment, the more you’ll find the people who are really attracted to what you make. And follow your heart! Make what you love!

Candy Carousel Soapsicle : $8.00

Do you have any new projects on the horizon?

Yes, I’m writing a soapmaking tutorial book which will be published next fall, and I just launched The Soap Lab at www.thesoaplab.blogspot.com which will have my most progressive and innovative soap designs ever! Definitely different than my Soapylove Soapsicles – but don’t worry, I have lots of new styles coming up there, too!

www.soapylove.com