Interview with Michelle Crafton of Goose Grease

Michelle did this DIY Interview a couple of weeks ago, and since then she’s had a new baby. Congratulations Michelle! Her shops are temporarily closed, but it is really easy to sign up to be notified when she’s back in business.

Previously featured by me and Ciaran, now you get a chance to meet the real person behind Goose Grease.

What is your craft / art / creative endeavor?

Custom hand painted wooden toys, keepsakes and wedding cake toppers.

I also love working with felt and hope to someday have a chance to open a second shop… sigh. I’d love to clone myself.

How did you get started? Have you worked in other creative areas before the kind of work you’re doing now?

I wanted some modern wooden dolls for my daughter. I created several sets and listed a few on Etsy. Soon I had requests for custom families and wedding cake toppers.

I’ve always loved drawing and art, but didn’t pursue it throughout school. It’s come in quite handy as a work from home mom.

Do you work alone? With a team? Do you engage your family or friends in the work? What is your process? How do you ensure you get your work done yet still have a life?

Goose Grease is a team of gals (and occasionally their husbands get sucked in).

Things are changing a bit since my second child is estimated to arrive Dec. ’09. It’s very hard to keep work and family separate, but an infant will keep me in check a little more. The studio has moved out of my apartment and I’m trying to stick with work hours.

Who knows what the new year will bring!

Where do you sell your work? Which venues are your favorites? Do you prefer selling online or in person? Do you attend shows or fairs? Is your work in a gallery or brick-and-mortar store?

I sell almost exclusively on Etsy.com @ goosegrease.etsy.com and goosegreaseundone.etsy.com. I do have a shop website @ www.goosegreaseshop.com, which I hope to do more with in the future, but for now Etsy is perfect. It does the advertising for me without a lot of time and money.

I do enjoy craft fairs, though they are harder with kids in the picture. I also have several wholesale clients.

What do you wish I had asked you?

“What inspires you?”

My husband and kids. Children’s clothes, children’s books, toys, etc.

colourlovers.com is also quite amazing!

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Thank you Michelle!

(And if you would like to be featured on DIY Interview next, just go fill out the application!)