How did you first start crocheting?

My grandma taught me how to crochet in 2021, and it took me about a year or so to start to enjoy it once I’d learned all the basics 

What inspired you to start selling your stuffed animals?

I’d been considering selling my artwork for a while since both my parents sold their artwork and told me it was a good idea, and I finally felt like I was at a point where I could crochet fast enough and well enough to sell it. 

Were there any unexpected obstacles when starting your business?

Unfortunately, right around the time I opened my Instagram, Instagram implemented the under-18 rules… which, if you don’t know, prohibit people from messaging you things if you don’t follow them. So when I did my first drop, which was purely on Instagram, I told the DM to purchase it but I wasn’t following anyone, so I couldn’t receive any of the messages. Luckily, a family member reached out right away and let me know there was a problem so that I could quickly follow everyone back, but I’ve yet to find a better solution. 

How do you sell most things (Via Instagram, in person)?

When I started, I mostly just sold things over instagram or in person, but I recently expanded and opened an etsy shop as well!

What’s your favorite thing to make? 

It’s really hard to choose a favorite but probably jellyfish or squid just cause the tentacles are so fun to do.

How did you manage balancing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and running a business?

It’s definitely a challenge but just making sure I prioritize whatever I need to do most really helps and also making sure I’m managing my time well. 

What role has social media played in promoting your business?

A lot of my customers are family or friends, so social media hasn’t done a lot other than giving me a ‘center’ of sorts for my platform, although it has attracted some customers! I think that finding ways to stay consistent with posting and such helps draw in a bigger audience.