To etsy or not to etsy

You know when you talk about doing something, jokingly, and then the more you think about it, the more you start to consider actually doing it?

Throughout the years, I've had a handful of people tell me that I should sell something I've created. And I've created a multitude of random things that I like to call "hobbies" (because "random things" just doesn't have the same ring to it): blankets, quilts, non-slip headbands, paintings, doodles, "wall art"...

And then, on Saturday, I had a fantastic idea. I walked into the fabric store, did a little shopping, and left with a bag of stuff, for around $25. After some pinning and sewing and toiling, I created something new, and I had to tell the world (via Facebook, of course).

I had the idea ever since I posted about ordering some collars from etsy. I mean, how hard could it really be? And, knowing me, I'll probably be switching her collars several times a week, so if I make the collars, not only will it be cheaper, but I can make them look however I want. Also, holiday collars! So I did a little research and decided to try it for myself. *Ta da*! (Note: with the $25.00 that I spent, I bought enough supplies to make at least four collars. That's right. A little over $6 each! That means the lady I bought the collars from on etsy was making about double the profit per collar).

After Jeremy mentioned something about me making a collar for Rocco next, I got to thinking, and last night posted on Facebook

I meant it as a joke, really. Who would buy my hobbies? I mean, really. But then it occurred to me...isn't that what etsy is, really? People buying other peoples' hobbies?

And so, I'm going to start doing some research about possibly selling my hobbies. I don't expect to make enough money to live off of or anything, but until the state quits taking away any chance of my getting a raise, I think it will be good for some extra spending money, you know, for food and gas and stuff. Etsy does charge.

"It costs 20 cents to list an item for four months. When your item sells, you’ll pay a 3.5% transaction fee."

 Doing a little "fake math," this sounds pretty reasonable to me. Am I crazy? Would you order some fun things from my shop? Any advice or experience in this realm to share with a newbie? (If you think I'm completely crazy, let me know. Don't let me make a bigger fool of myself than I already do on a daily basis).



And, of course, no post-weekend post is complete without...dog pictures!

When Mommy puts sheets back on the bed, it just doesn't
seem challenging enough, so I help her out.

My life is so rough. I had to keep track of Mom while she
cleaned the house and the car. It's not easy being her
shadow.