Happy March, everyone!

Since last Spring, I’ve been on a very crafty adventure. I’m now building a wee business for myself and doing sewing work by contract. (Ahem, do you need something sewn? I may know someone who can help!) It’s been quite an adjustment. Working from home has it’s ups and downs, of course. It turns out I wasn’t so good at time management at first; not without the usual 9-5 routine, anyway. I’m still not tremendously good at it, but I am getting better. The commute is just right, though.

Building the business bit by bit has made me feel more like an adult than anything else I’ve ever done. Taxes, and accounting, and all the organization required. It makes my head spin a bit, and sometimes I’m not really quite sure what I’ve gotten myself in to.

I still sell my wares on Etsy, but I’ve also started consigning at TL6 The Gallery in New Bedford, MA, and selling at conventions (where my goods are sold by other vendors). This summer I plan to vend at fairs and craft shows as my own entity. Thrilling, and a bit terrifying. I’ve set a goal of two events. I have yet to actually sign up for them, but I will as soon as I have more photographs of my work. Many shows are juried and I don’t have quite enough to show just yet. I spend most of my sewing time on contract work to pay the bills, but I’m working on building stock in every other waking moment.

To launch the new era of sparkle j designs, I’ve had the blog spruced up a bit. What do you think? I plan to have a patterns and tutorials section. Keep an eye out for clothing alteration tips, toys and oddments, and lots of other fun things.

Here’s to a new beginning! Cheers!