Guest post: Etsy Canada talks Uniiverse DIY workshops and selling on Etsy
Hello!
My name is Nada and I work for Etsy, the online global marketplace for independent creative businesses! As the DIY movement grows, our sellers are using tools like Uniiverse to organize workshops to teach others how to craft. It’s a great tool for promoting your business, and empowering others to create. I talked to a Toronto Etsy seller, Justyna of House of Bauble to get her tips on leading a successful workshop.
If you already use Uniiverse and want to know more about selling on Etsy, use the promo code UNIIVERSE at www.etsy.com/promotions to redeem 20 free listings to start your creative business today!
1) Tell us about yourself and your Etsy shop.
My name is Justyna and I’m the designer of House of Bauble, a locally designed jewelry brand. I’ve always loved crafting and making things I could display at home or give to a friend as a gift. I started making jewelry 3 years ago as a hobby. Once I started experiencing with different techniques and materials, I fell in love with the process and received a lot of positive feedback. I knew then that people were longing for fresh and timeless pieces so I started making jewelry for friends and family. It wasn’t long before I discovered Etsy. On my Etsy shop, my jewelry ranges from elegant and simple to bold and intricate. Each piece is handmade locally in Toronto, with love.
2) It seems like DIY is a big trend nowadays. Were you ever hesitant to teach others your secrets because that would affect your business or do you see it as another avenue to promote your work?
DIY has definitely become a big trend and I see a lot of it being incorporated at various events, in fashion and home decor. I started running DIY workshops because it’s a great way to connect with like minded people, disconnect from the everyday routine and learn new skills. It’s also a great way to promote my jewelry brand. For every participant at my workshop, not only do they leave with their handmade item, but they often leave with a goody bag which includes one of my jewelry pieces and/or business card.
3) What was it like the first time you ran a workshop?
I honestly didn’t know what to expect. I ran my first workshop, Colour Block Bracelet workshop, at the Uniiverse headquarters and had around 4 - 5 participants. I was a bit nervous but it was so much fun and I knew it was something I would enjoy and be proud of accomplishing. Running these workshops gives me the opportunity to improve and learn new skills and meet new people.
4) What do you like about using Uniiverse to organize your workshops?
Uniiverse is by far the easiest website to use when organizing a workshop. Not only is it easy and safe, it’s free! Uniiverse is user-friendly, has a simple interface, allows you to add photos and makes it easy to share your posting on social media websites, such as Facebook, Twitter, and Google. One of the great features of Uniiverse is that it allows the public to review your listing and provide feedback.
5) Do you have any advice on getting the word out and running a successful workshop?
I would suggest signing up with Uniiverse and creating your listing. Why wouldn’t you? It’s easy and there are several ways to share from the site. I would also suggest sharing your workshop with friends and family, on your blog and even find a website or blog that highlights events throughout your city. They often get a lot of traffic and you never know who might see it. My last piece of advice would be to always ask your participants for feedback.
