School House Craft Giveaway!
As a THANK YOU for supporting UCU and continuing to help make it awesome, we are offering you a chance to win a three day pass to School House Craft!
School House Craft is a dynamic new three day conference for people wanting to gain the skills to run a successful creative small business.
Are you considering staring your own business or do you already own your own business that focuses on craft, art or design? Do you have a shop on etsy, sell to shops and galleries, sell at craft fairs or want to start a new venture turning your passion into a business? If the answer is yes this is the conference for you!
-The School House Craft Website
For your chance to win, leave a comment letting us know why you'd be psyched to attend the conference. (Be sure to includey our contact info so we can let you know if you win.)
We will be choosing a winner at random on May 4th!
Comments:
Posted by
Danica
on
Apr 20th, 2011
I've wanted to give crafting for a side business a shot for a while but I'm just not sure where to turn to get the financial side questions I would have answered! I would be thrilled to go to this and learn the ins and outs.
Posted by
Leigh Hampton
on
Apr 20th, 2011
How amazing! We are about to adopt two little boys and momma wants to make money being crafty from home!!! Someone needs to teach me how!
Posted by
Caroline Sumpter
on
Apr 20th, 2011
I would really love a chance to attend this workshop. I am a life long creative with an abundance of ideas. I have just re-focused myself, re-oriented the creative compass to point towards moi, again, after having kids and making a home (which never ends). This workshop is timely and it looks like fun!thanks!
Caroline
AnemoneArts
Posted by
CAROL LELIVELT
on
Apr 20th, 2011
Finally, both of my young kids will be in school full time in the fall, freeing me up to make more art and crafts. I'd like to attend the conference to learn how to market my creations. Please choose me!Thank you,
Carol
Posted by
Brian Hutcheson
on
Apr 20th, 2011
I've been toying with the idea to start my own small creative business, but I've been afraid to take the leap, feeling that there is just too many things to consider. This conference would be just the push I would need to get in the game!
Posted by
Alissa Thiele
on
Apr 20th, 2011
Hi UCU!Your website redesign looks great! Not too long ago I redesigned Crafty Wonderland's website. It was really fun to make a fresh new look for a business that I'm crazy about.
So why would I be psyched to attend the School House Craft, you ask? Well I have an Etsy shop that I've been running for 2 1/2 years now. Over the weekend I finally hit 100 sales. I want to attend the conference to learn & experience & to interact with crafters, artists, and graphic designers. I was bummed that I missed out on the Summit of Awesome conference here in Portland last Summer. Attending SHC conference would fill my loss. Hehe! Plus I've never been to Seattle, what a great reason to go to check out the city!
Cheers,
Alissa Thiele
Email: alissa.thiele@gmail.com
Etsy: www.atealeaf.etsy.com
Web: www.atealeaf.me
Posted by
Samantha Schuller
on
Apr 20th, 2011
This is the first I've heard of School of Craft, but wow, what an awesome opportunity! I have an etsy business that I've been working with for 2 1/2 years, but I'd love to get some expert insight into how to bring it to the next level (and keep some money in my paypal for spending on ME instead of always buying more SUPPLIES!)!:)
Posted by
Angie
on
Apr 20th, 2011
I would love to win because my husband has been doing some artistic greeting cards and paintings and we are getting ready to take this to the next level and figure out how to start selling them. Our goal is to start selling by the holidays. Etsy, something else, UCU, who knows . . . So this would be perfect timing for us.
Posted by
Aidra F
on
Apr 21st, 2011
Bouts of unemployment have left me wanting a job I was more in control of and got more out of. This has translated to me wanting to start a related business but haven't quite had the confidence it requires.
Posted by
Amy
on
Apr 21st, 2011
It took a lot of soul searching and self-doubts before I decided that my sister and I were talented enough to open up our own Etsy shop. Unfortunately, we don't have the business skills that would enable me to quit my day job and concentrate solely on creating. site: laceandrubbish.etsy.com
blog: beatandrubbish.blogspot.com
Posted by
Nancy L
on
Apr 21st, 2011
Would love to go to this conference! Really want to move ahead with my fabric mandala business and connect with other craft entrepreneurs.
Posted by
chelsie
on
Apr 22nd, 2011
This conference may be the right kick in the pants to get me actually selling my work. I've read the occasional online article, but they don't help motivate me as much as being around other creative folks and learning from their experiences. I would love to go to this!
Posted by
Nicole
on
Apr 22nd, 2011
Helping my 11-year old photographic entrepreneur start building her business! She has an etsy shop, sells at craft fairs, and some local businesses. She recently swept 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in Best of Show at the Spring Fair photo contest sponsored by Tacoma Photographic Society, and has one confirmed and one possible gallery showing next year. A reporter for King5 heard about her accomplishments and will be interviewing her next week!www.rhythmicrain.etsy.com
Posted by
Lindydi
on
Apr 23rd, 2011
*Looking forward to retirement years.... *Will need additional income....
*Let's see - substitute teaching? housecleaning? Or....
*Following my heart's yearning to produce and sell beautiful, useful
and creative goods using recycled materials
*But wait! I need help to do this right!
*School House Craft to the rescue - please help me!
Posted by
Chris
on
Apr 23rd, 2011
This year I took the plunge and left my day job to focus on my craft business. Now I'm seeing just how much really goes into selling products, from photography to marketing and more. Product development and production is the easy part! Attending this conference would go a long way towards finding out what I don't yet know that I need to know and even putting a few topics into the 'have a clue' category.
Posted by
Tamila Morgan
on
Apr 23rd, 2011
I went to last years conference (CCE) and WOW! It was more than amazing. I tell people "anything" that UCU puts on, join or do. You guys are inspirational & fun!
Posted by
Andrea
on
Apr 23rd, 2011
I run a small business selling my bead and leather work, and I also maintain a website that sells vintage beads and jewelry supplies. The creative side of this comes easily to me -- but the marketing and administrative side? Well, I could really use some help on that front.I wasn't able to attend CCE last year due to a last minute scheduling conflict, so I am thrilled to hear about School House Craft!
Posted by
Ellen
on
Apr 23rd, 2011
What a great offer! I've been working for several years to turn my crafting into a supplemental income, but the marketing/sales component is not my strong suit. And now, due to layoffs and the economy, making my business successful has never been more important! It would be wonderful to be able to learn from others who have been where I am! Thanks for the opportunity.
Posted by
Mary
on
Apr 23rd, 2011
I have run an interior design workroom (I sew for interior designers) out of my home for the last 20 years. I started after my daughter began 1st grade. I really just jumped in without really knowing what I was doing. I never had to market myself, word was passed on from designer to designer. I have learned a lot, but still feel I am flying by the seat of my pants! I started my Etsy shop two months ago because I needed to do something more creative on my own, rather than follow the directions on a workorder from a designer. This is a whole new realm: I need learn marketing, networking with other crafters and artists, an a whole lot more that I don't even know about yet! Thanks for support and opportunity!
Posted by
Jenny
on
Apr 23rd, 2011
I would love to win this! I just started my business this year and have been considering attending this conference. Money has been a factor though. Please let me go!Jenny
jenny.chang.art@gmail.com
Posted by
sam trout
on
Apr 25th, 2011
What a great idea. I'm so glad this is happening. I can't wait to check it out. sam
Posted by
sam trout
on
Apr 25th, 2011
I would love to win the chance to attend because I need the extra help getting my business to the next level. sam
lulaline@yahoo.com
Posted by
Kristie
on
Apr 25th, 2011
I would love to attend the conference. I recently started a couple Etsy shops and I'm planning on doing some craft fairs in the coming year. I feel like I need some help to narrow my focus and get a handle on the business side. Thanks.
Posted by
BethK
on
Apr 25th, 2011
I have been crafting for a couple of years now and have been told repeatedly I should start up my own shop, but have no idea where to start; I've justed started on Etsy and am intimidated to apply to different local shops and craft fairs. This would give me the kick in the pants I need to get moving on my dream job.
Posted by
Kim Thomas
on
Apr 25th, 2011
i've had my own business for around 5 years but have never been able to make the leap to doing it full time. After a breakup i had to stop doing craft fairs like UCU cause of time and money and would love to get back into branding myself and my business. I need serious help in a few areas especially marketing and photography. I would love the chance to attend!!! BONUS i live on Phinney Ave. =) love you guys!!
kim thomas
dontquiltyourdayjob@yahoo.com
www.dontquiltyourdayjob.com
Posted by
adelaide blair
on
Apr 25th, 2011
I would love to be able to take the next step in my business with a little guidance!
Posted by
Kim S
on
Apr 25th, 2011
I've been thinking about starting my own art/craft/design business for a long time now but just never knew how to get started!
Posted by
Belladatura
on
Apr 25th, 2011
This would be so helpful in taking the next steps!
Posted by
Samantha Fisher
on
Apr 25th, 2011
We have the product; we have the reps; we have the marketing (ok, we have _some_ marketing); and we certainly have fun; but where does the profit come in? If this conference would help us take our business to the next level, I would very much enjoy attending it. This, and business school. Only, I might not enjoy business school very much. So this might be better.Keep on rockin', UCU folks!
Samantha Fisher
"Sock Monkey and Friends"
www.monkeysockmonkey.com
sam@monkeysockmonkey.com
Posted by
Katie Galbraith
on
Apr 25th, 2011
I've been crafting as a business for about ten years now, but feel like I'm stuck. I'd like to make my business grow, and need help doing it.
Posted by
machellaballella
on
Apr 25th, 2011
Designing and creating infant and children's fashions, toys and crafty accessories for grown-ups has been my passionate endeavor for too long to have ANY excuses for failing to have a full-on website and business plan and all of those things one needs to actually run a successful operation. I guess I have been a bit afraid to turn this passion into a job, but think I am ready to take the plunge. This workshop would be an amazing way to get me inspired and to provide me the know-how to make it happen!! PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PICK ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by
Christina Clouse
on
Apr 25th, 2011
Congratulations on the new site! It deflinitely looks like a great place to strengthen the community you've built. Be seeing you at events, and thanks for the chance to win.
Posted by
Diana
on
Apr 26th, 2011
Ever since my buddy and I were girls we used to put on our punk rock music and make our punk rock clothes because we could never afford what our school mates were buying. It didn't matter though because we had lots of fun using our creativity and our stuff looked better anyways. So now we are hitting the ground running and trying out what everyone is doing now with what we have always done and thats crafting. And well when it comes to organization and financial legal matters we could use some help! Oh and the site is AMAZAZAZING!
Posted by
Anne-Claire Regan
on
Apr 26th, 2011
I have been wanting to attend such a conference to see how I can learn and improve my small craft business and this seems like an amazing opportunity. I make plush art and toys mainly with felt and vintage buttons and fabrics that I get from France and I would love to get to meet other small business owners like me to brain storm and learn on what can make us successful :)
Thanks for giving me the chance to participate and maybe win? :)
www.Hiboucards.Etsy.com
Contact me through my shop :)
Anne-Claire aka Hibou
Posted by
christina b
on
Apr 26th, 2011
Oh it just sounds inspirational and so fun, fun fun! Networking, new ideas, new solutions. It can get pretty rusty in this head of mine.I'd love to be a part of it all.
Posted by
cheryl
on
Apr 26th, 2011
i have all the crafty passion, i just need the biz-saavy! this would be AMAZING! *crosses fingers for the win!*
Posted by
VC Bath & Boy Treats
on
Apr 26th, 2011
Great website UCU!Never knew that there where seminars for hand-crafted business, This is great news for us as we just started back in November of 2010 and have been gaining speed ever since!
Hope to see you @ the Summer Show in July, Will be our FIRST huge EVENT!!! (if we get selected)
Keep up the good work
V&C
Info@VCBathBodyTreats.com
www.VCBathBodyTreats.com
Posted by
EmmaMarie
on
Apr 26th, 2011
I have just recently decided to lay it all out and start my own business! No profits really so far, but tons of interest and starting sales. While I've worked for other companies before, I've never started my own from the beginning! Wow! What a wonderful challenge. I accept and love all the help I can get! This opportunity would show it's value not only immediately but for years to come with my business! Can't wait! emmamarie1925@gmail.com
Posted by
Serena
on
Apr 27th, 2011
Oh My Kitties!!!! I was laid off in October and was thrown into this small handmade business of mine! I need a bit of guidance! Looks like an amazing time!!Thanks for the opportunity!
Serena aka Almost Monday
www.almostmonday.com
http://itsalmostmonday.blogspot.com/
Posted by
Stefanie
on
Apr 27th, 2011
I'd love to attend because I've been preparing to start a small crafty business for about a year now but I'm not quite sure how to make it perfect. Since my husband is in the Army, I'm lucky enough to stay home with my 8 month old son but I'd love to have a business to work my creative muscles and have some extra money to make sure my son has everything he needs and every opportunity I can give him.
Posted by
Heidi
on
Apr 28th, 2011
I really could use some inspiration on how to grow my business the correct way. It's easy to stumble through by trial and error - exhausting. I need to talk to other people who have more experience!
Posted by
Nancy
on
Apr 28th, 2011
Sounds like a great thing, I would love to attend.Nancy | aka blackrabbit
www.littleblackrabbit.etsy.com
Posted by
Shannon
on
Apr 28th, 2011
I'd love to attend Schoolhouse Craft - sounds like it's going to be a fantastic conference. I feel like I've built up all of the skills to bring my business to the next level, but I need some way to tie them all together, and this would be a great opportunity to make those connections.
Posted by
Maya
on
Apr 29th, 2011
We would love to attend this conference to get better understanding of craft business since we’ve doing everything ourselves and always wanted to hear others peoples’ tips or experience. There are so many times we couldn’t do because we couldn’t figure how to do or if we did right… Making is craft is one and running a business is whole different animal for sure!
Posted by
Robyn Bradley
on
Apr 30th, 2011
Oh what a perfect conference would be for me! I have always been a crafter, but have been desperately been trying to get a business up and running for a while now, and I could use some help! I am only one lady and gave a hard time stretching myself out in all aspects of running a business. (Not to mention the fact that i have been unemployed for nearly two years and am trying to do everything on an almost non-existent budget!) There are just certain things in this industry that I am not too savvy about and would love an opportunity to not only meet others that have home based businesses like myself, but to learn a lot of valuable information too!
Posted by
Kelly
on
May 2nd, 2011
How exciting! I just opened my etsy shop (hyggeligtbaby.etsy.com), and if possible, I want to be able to work at home while my husband and I have our first child. I'm hoping this conference will help me learn to market my business.Thanks for the opportunity!
Posted by
Antonella
on
May 2nd, 2011
I have an etsy store and I have sold my crafts at local stores, but it's getting harder and harder to find a venue for my items. I need to learn more about marketing my business, advertising, networking. I just need to get myself out there and do it! Attending this conference would be a big step and a supervaluable source of information!www.onebyone.etsy.com
Posted by
Jessica
on
May 3rd, 2011
I would be so lucky to attend this conference. Being a younger crafter, I have not had many opportunities to start up a successful business or really learn how to get my designs out on the market. However, I have participated in craft fairs in the past, and ran an etsy shop for a while. Realizing that the craft industry is a tough one, the competition on etsy grew greater and greater and it was harder to sell my things. It was more difficult to cater to the right audience. Being 18, I believe that the potential to learn is there, but I also think that I lack the skills necessary to build a fluid business, and to be self sustaining. I would greatly appreciate this opportunity.Thank you!
Jessica
kitschfruit.etsy.com
Posted by
emily
on
May 3rd, 2011
i opened an etsy store a while back and i've gotten so many kind words from people about my artwork. i've made some sales but i realize that ultimately, i'm not making much of an income. i would love to continue doing this for a living because it's what i wake up in the mornings for, but i think that i need to start getting more business savvy. i've been reading books and listening to podcasts, but i don't think that's enough. i truly believe that i have enough potential to create a successful business; i just need to get on the right track.
Posted by
Shannon
on
Dec 3rd, 2011
School House Craft is music to my ears! I've been crafting for years but held a FT job and have 2 young kids. I need a boost to learn how/where to start to make ditching my commute a reality. I would love to be around like minded folks and build knowledge. Plus, I want to be a success story and show my things at Urban Craft!
Posted by
debbie
on
Feb 28th, 2012
I have been selling at local farmer's markets and craft shows for a few years now but am always looking for ways to improve, expand and grow my business. I've read and researched various entrepreneurship book and information, but it's SOOO much better if the information and expertise is coming from people in the same industry that you are working in. I would LOVE to hear what the people you endorse would have to say, people who really love and respect the arts!
Posted by
lynn
on
Apr 25th, 2012
What a great opportunity! I have had my own home based business for about six years - but always could use help, input, and networking with other fab small business owners!!Looking forward to it!
Posted by
Sammy
on
Apr 25th, 2012
I've started up a etsy site to sell my cosplay and hair accessories.http://www.etsy.com/shop/LollyMist
And begun going to a few shows as of last year, but only on the Washington Temp Business license.
Still having a full time job makes it hard to push my business harder, but I couldn't drop my full time position for this side project unless is picks up even more. I would love to learn more on how to achieve that.
-SmallRiniLady
