Interview with Jessi Lynn of Vol25
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.
Do you have any formal training?
No, I am proud to say that I am completely self taught. However, it did take quite a few google searches, and online tutorials to teach myself photoshop.
When and why did you create your business?
After I got married in October of 2003, my husband and I decided I would quit my job (secretary at our local chevy dealership) and we would try to live off of one income, his. We had immediate plans to start a family, and knew I wanted to be a stay at home mom. The following November our daughter was born. We managed to get by with his income just fine. Granted it wasn’t always a picnic, we had to make responsible decisions… which meant very few splurges. I have always been a crafty person and loved making original handmade baby books with my illustrations. One day I did a search for handmade baby book, and it brought me to etsy. I opened up my first shop that same day. A few months later, I was still at home with my daughter, filling my need to create and making extra money for those “splurges.” We still do not rely on my income, and this keeps it “extra.”
Has it changed at all since you began? How?
Yes, it has dramatically. Photography is hard to sell on etsy, because there are SO many talented photographers with shops. I really didnt feel like I could even compete with them… my lack of sales made it obvious. I have always had a desire to create graphics, and began learning photoshop, designing banners, business cards, and other packaging for etsy sellers. I was doing VERY good, but my family was suffering. Working around customers’ schedules, and NEVER resting until my customer was 110% satisfied. It was then that I decided to test the waters with my art. It was so much more relaxing, to create at my own pace, on my own time. While I still have a few super sweet customers that followed me over to vol25, for the most part I am focusing completely on my art. It is nice to not feel pulled in so many different directions.
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.
and the worst?
Setting myself a schedule! Since I enjoy drawing so much, I find it is hard to make myself stop and get things done around the house.
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.
Who is your favorite indie designer?
I have a few favorites, but I simply adore Alix from treehouse28’s designs. Not only is she super sweet, but her talent is amazing. treehouse28.etsy.com
What was your most recent indie buy?
I bought a pair of minky baby frog feet for my niece from justkiddn on etsy. JustKiddn.etsy.com too cute!
What one thing couldn’t you live without?
My 10 mp sony a-100 digital camera.
What will you be wearing come summer?
Anything comfortable. I am due this July to deliver our second child.
What music/books/magazines are you into right now?
Currently my Ikea catalogue is getting quite a bit of loving. After drooling over the last three years of catalogues, I am finally planning a trip to Ikea. As you could guess my wish list is somewhat long… I am keeping track of page numbers, prices, and getting a grand total before I even walk through the store doors! We will be leaving this saturday, so wish me luck!
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.
Where do you hope you/your business will be in 5 years?
I would love to have had a couple magazine features, my own room/studio, a few more customers, and several new *favorite* pieces of art hanging on my walls.
Do you have any new projects on the horizon?
Yes! I have a pregnancy book designed, and almost completely ready to send to the printer. I plan to follow up with a matching baby book. I have several designs featuring some of my more popular pieces of art in mind. I think there is a HUGE market for baby/pregnancy books that are not so frilly and cutesy… a little more modern. I hope to launch these into my etsy shop by the end of the year.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received regarding your business?
Do not expect people to fall into your shop… promote, promote, and when you dont think you can promote anymore… promote.
Site: vol25.etsy.com
