Interview with SunFire
What kind of creative work do you do?
– I’m into pyrography, wood burning. I picked up a pen from the craft store in 2006, and by late 2007 I was really really enjoying it, so I just kept going. Lately, however, with the desire to spread the message of Turn Peace Around. I’ve picked up other methods of creativity. Fabric painting so far, but hoping to do some braided hemp jewelry in the near future. Not to mention any other idea I or my mom comes up with to make 
How did you get started selling your work?
– In Nov 2007, my mom was selling her artwork (printed photography) at a local crafter’s event in the local mall. As I had no job, I spent a lot of time down there, helping to man her booth. I brought my burning with me to keep me occupied, and a couple of the other artists were really impressed with my work. They suggested I try selling it, and shortly before New Years, I opened my Etsy shop. I’ve also set up my burnings alongside my mom’s photography at the local Farmer’s Market and various craft shows.
What was/is the hardest part of selling your work and how did you deal with it?
– I think the hardest part has been 2 things – finding the right things to make that people will buy, and finding the people that want to buy what I make. I guess you could sum that up as Marketing and Advertising. I’ve dealt with it in a couple ways so far. Word-of-mouth from friends talking to friends brings new people to see my work. Also, taking custom orders helps a lot. It lets people know that I am versatile and willing to do anything in my abilities.
What advice do you have for others wanting to sell their creative work?
– Enjoy what you do, and search out the market of people that will be most willing to buy your pieces. Be ready to take a loss in the first couple years, but know that if you can make it through the tough economy, you’ll do well when things even back out.
How do you keep motivated and inspired?
– The Etsy teams I am a part of help a LOT. They are always talking about what they are making (or not), what inspires them, the big sale they just had, or craft shows they are going to. The really active teams find ways to mingle everyday BS with creativity and crafting. That not only makes them seem more human, but it helps me to realize I don’t have to be in craft mode all the time. It’s okay to live life with my business thrown in, instead of being completely absorbed by it.
Also, being (physically) surrounded by people that create and/or are supportive of your crafting. I live with my mom, and she has no other job. She is trying to make her main source of income from her photography >>please link to my mom’s site somewhere here, http://www.nicolesvisions.com<< (along with other creative pursuits). She understands and supports me as do I for her.
What is it that you want others to know about your creative work?
– I never took a course in pyrography, nor did anyone really teach me. The first person that suggested the idea to me gave me one or 2 pointers, but that was it. The rest came either naturally or through experience. Some say I have a natural talent for this, and the more I do it, the more I start to believe them.
Where do you sell your work? Please shamelessly plug yourself here!
– Right now, I only sell online through my Etsy shop >>http://breathofthedragon.etsy.com<< If my mom and I find the money, we might set up at a craft show or farmer’s market for local exposure. It is our dream to someday open a store in town for all kinds of locally hand-crafted gifts, including our own, of course.