THAT FUNKY BOUTIQUE

Angie Eisman

That Funky Boutique

http://www.thatfunkyboutique.blogspot.com
http://www.thatfunkyboutique.etsy.com

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Angie and I'm a wife to a wonderful man and mother of two. We've lived all over the US... Colorado, Nebraska, Missouri, Texas. And now the mountains of western North Carolina.

I hold a BFA with emphasis in illustration and print design. After working in the advertising industry for 5 years I went off on my own as a freelance designer. My most recent design work has been for children's clothing lines Chatti Patti and Knuckleheads Clothing.

When my daughter was very young the tight deadlines of the advertising industry didn't appeal to me so I sought another way to use my artistic talents. One that I could do at my own pace at home. I found inspiration in my young child and custom children's clothing soon became my new business. I've been designing for children for over 5 years now.

What do you make?

I've just introduced my new line. Funky wool winter hats that I'm selling both wholesale and retail.

Recycled materials, mismatched colors and prints, and unexpected details make my hats very different from anything one would find in typical stores. They started as children's hats though I've expanded the line to include adults as well.

Besides the hats I enjoy sewing children's separates as I have time.

What inspires you & what is your creative process?

Children are an obvious inspiration. I enjoy their spunkiness and try to put that quality into what I make.

I'm also very inspired by the process of creation. I think I find the actual working time more fulfilling even then the outcome.

Of course I love the finished product but figuring out how to make something, turning it around in my mind over and over, and finally making it come to life. I love that. My brain is constantly whirling about what to try next.

Where is your studio and how has it evolved? what is your plan for it in the future?

We are in the process of moving so my studio is currently in cardboard boxes. Butu I've had several studios and my least favorite work spaces have been areas where I felt too isolated from my family. An extra bedroom. A basement room where no one wanted to be.

My hope for my next space is to create an inviting area for the whole family. A place for many activities so that we can all be together.

What tools & equipment do you use?

Pfaff Sewing Machine

Babylock Serger

What else do you do? Is this your full time gig?

Being a mom is my full time gig but I've always sought a creative outlet. I've picked up illustration & print design again now that my children are older. My time for illustration/design vs custom apparel is split about 50/50

What do you hope to get out of this, what are your goals?

My short term goal is to market my hats to more stores both locally and nationally. I get creative fulfillment from this and of course it's nice to be able to supplement our income.

How do you promote yourself?

Legwork: We are personally contacting stores and taking wholesale hat orders. Stores may contact me by emailing sales@eismandesign.com Mailing List: Compiled of many wonderful people I've met who have requested to be on my list over the past few years. I send out notices when I have new items available or other special news.

Blog: My blog tells you where to find my products and gives behind the scenes tidbits. www.thatfunkyboutique.blogspot.com

Any tips for fellow crafters/artists?

Hone your skills and create a product you love. When you have trouble wanting to sell it you know you are onto a good product. And if you are feeling burned out or have a lack of passion for what you are creating take a break and seek out other ideas.

thanks so much Angie! sorry about being a day late and a dollar short!