Crafter Geek has been an official business for about a month now. I have a pretty clear idea of what I would like to do:
- Start by stocking environmentally-friendly arts & crafts supplies
- Make my own beginner kits from these supplies
- Include an option for make-a-long video tutorials for each kit
I have such passion for my craft that I want to share it with others. I want people to feel empowered to try something new. I often say “I’m not a professional; do try this at home”.
But in trying something new, there will always be mistakes.
I have volunteered in social media positions for over 10 years. Companies sell an “image”, one of perfection. You’re not booking a vacation, you’re buying an aerial view of yourself surrounded by models on a private beach where no one else dare go, being waited on hand and foot, total relaxation, no worries, you don’t get stung by a jellyfish, sand doesn’t get in your perfect gourmet food, and peace has been declared throughout the world.
I really want my customers to try new things and have fun with it. I want them to be proud of what they make, warts and all. There is a balance between posting a professional work of art and setting beginners up to fail. Full disclosure: I have felt considerable pressure to be an expert at everything I sell. Every article for new business owners advises to make yourself look like an expert even when you’re not. Ensure every photo, every word, every post is perfection. Sell a story, sell a fantasy, sell yourself.
Well, selling myself means selling who I am, and I don’t sell lies and perfection.
I hope you make the conscious decision to support my small business, swap to more sustainable art supplies, and learn something new. I am very accessible for questions. Join my Facebook Group, Crafter Geek Guild, for tips, tricks, questions, and concerns. Whether you’re painting in a Zen garden in front of a pond full of waterlilies or knitting on the couch in a sea of Cheetos binging Netflix is up to you.
PS: Find the mistake in the cover image of this post