Feature Friday: Sara Andrus of the Savvy Stitcher

This week's Feature Friday focuses on Sara Andrus, the Savvy Stitcher! Here is the interview that recently appeared at our Facebook page.

How did you first hear about Etsy?

I first learned about Etsy when I was in a gift shop in my hometown. A girl who had pendants for sale there had her Etsy site on her business card. I really liked her style, so I wanted to check out her store. I immediately fell in love with Etsy, as I already loved all things handmade!

Tell us about a little about yourself and your favorite craft/art.

I am a 24-year-old girl and live with my husband in Western Kentucky, where we both grew up. We’ve been married for almost a year now and he is very supportive of my “craft”. My favorite would have to be sewing, but I am constantly trying new things. Currently, I love making the fabric coffee cozies. They seem to be a really hot item right now and I love coming up with new designs and ways to spice them up!


How did you get started as a designer?

I have always been into crafts. I started out scrapbooking, but realized it was way too time-consuming for my taste. I then branched out to stamping and other crafts. When I went to college, my roommate taught me how to use a sewing machine and that was it! I am completely self-taught (other than having her teach me to thread the machine, etc.) and I am always looking for fun new projects.

What inspires you to create?

I love vibrant colors and fun patterns. I also love buttons of all shapes and sizes. I hope to incorporate them into my crafts more often in the future. I’m inspired every time I go into Hancock Fabrics. I will always come home with a new fabric and will have to immediately get to the sewing machine and create something with it. I have more fabric than I know what to do with!

How long have you been a member of Bluegrass etsy and how did you hear about the team?

I have been a member of the team since December of 2008. I came across the team when searching the Etsy site and decided it was perfect for me, as a Kentucky crafter!

Any advice you would give to aspiring designers?

My advice is to figure out what you have a passion for. Then, whatever medium that may be, always create what you love. Search Etsy frequently and see what is popular, then try to incorporate that into your art, but put your own spin on it. If you don’t love it yourself, you won’t stay excited about it. Don’t create something just because you think it will sell. I found that out early. If you’re excited about it, other people will be, too! Promote, promote, promote! Start a blog. Above all, be true to yourself and your art.

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Thank you Sara for the insight into your creativity and for sharing with us how you got started with etsy. Glad to hear your husband supports your crafting!

If you haven't visited already, check out Sara's super cute etsy shop!

Watch each Friday for another installment of Feature Friday!