SF Etsy Goes to Craftcation

Just getting started with the fun at Craftcation 2017

​​Let's Go Craftcation!

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Craftcation 2018, a craft and business conference by Dear Handmade Life is happening April 4-8th in Ventura, California. Last spring, many members of the SF Etsy team enjoyed attending together, here's some highlights to inspire our journey this year! The event is sold out, if you would like to attend this year, please check out the event page on Facebook for ticket sales by individuals. 

" I came to Craftcation to get inspired, improve my skills, learn from mentors (especially one of my  idols, key note speaker - Jenny Hart) and just make stuff! With four days of workshops and festivities, Craftcation did as promised and my head still spins a week later from all the ideas I need to implement on my website,  my work and beyond... What I did not expect was the community of makers who made me feel so included and special. I'm an introvert, so I was kind of intimidated by everyone but joining in at the workshops I realized pretty quickly we were all  sisters  (and the occasional brother) in creativity. I felt every attendee cheering  my success stories and having real empathy for my struggles  having a creative business .  It was amazing being part of something so real and  moving - a maker community trying to make a difference in each other's lives. "  

​TickleAndSmash - Lisa Spinella

Paola from Knits By Paola and Lisa sharing smiles in the SFEtsy Wanderings photo booth.

"One of the things I enjoyed about Craftcation was learning about new techniques
​and products. Look at the swag bag we got! "  

 Flower 7 - Fleurette Sevin

Swag Bag 2017 photo by Fleurette Sevin

"My most important takeaway was to take more time for myself, away from my business, so that I'm more happy, relaxed, and able to let the creativity flow. "Self-care" is such a buzzword these days so I've often ignored it. But I was starting to get burnt out before going to Craftcation, and spending a few days in the cool ocean air, meeting other creative women, and learning new craft skills was like a balm for my soul. I'm suddenly way more excited about my business (and about my life, in general) and feel a sense of peace I haven't felt in years. Many of the presenters touched on the importance of stepping away from the computer and taking time for yourself, and I've really taken that to heart." 

​Brandi Chalker - Sunshine and Succulents

Succulent terrariums from Brandi's workshop.

​I was surprised by the creative energy I took away from the conference and pride I felt being with like-minded small business entrepreneurs. A great example of this was putting together our SF Etsy pop-up in a hotel room (very quickly) and seeing how successful it was. Our reach to others attending the conference was wide and felt all weekend long.
​Our team has an amazing reputation that we should all feel proud of!

​Stephanie Bolton - SinceSass

Favorite picture! From Sarah Deragon's photo walking tour (Click on photo for Sarah's Portraits to the People site)