Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristin Schwartzlose.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I was bit by the crafting bug when I was pretty young, first learning how to sew my own designs, and draw and paint. As I grew, I expanded my areas of interest into making clothes and jewelry for myself when I was in High School, but I ended up making so much that I my mom suggested I start selling my creations on Etsy. I moved to Hawaii for college and ended up staying for 8 years, which really helped shape the overarching nautical theme of my designs. Now that I am back in California, I am always trying out new crafts and techniques to add a little unique flavor to each of my products. In my spare time, I really enjoy photography and painting but I am trying to incorporate them into my business whether it be functional art pieces like jewelry for an everyday outfit, or a beautiful card sent to a friend.
Please tell us about your art.
I am truly inspired each and every time I go to the beach and see the ocean. I have always lived by the beach, done water sports, and traveled to places near the ocean.To me, the ocean symbolizes opportunity, fun, and discovery. Those themes are at the heart of my designs which span from handmade jewelry to unique purses. Some of my favorite items I make are my clay ring dishes, each one coming out of the oven with a unrepeatable clay pattern. Nautical themed hand-stamped bracelets and rings with quotes are also fun to create. I hope that everyone can take a piece of the beach with them wherever they go when they go home with one of my items.
Do you have any advice for other artists? Any lessons you wished you learned earlier?
One lesson I wish I had known 10 years ago is that there is a TON of trial and error. Although learning something new can be a big feat, it doesn’t mean your new item is worth selling just yet. A theme and a good skill set can take years to create so it is best to keep a smaller inventory and see how sales go.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
Select items of mine, along with those of many other local entrepreneurs, are on sale at Simply Local conveniently located in North Park. Some items are exclusively available at Simply Local but the majority of my items are availble on my Etsy at SetSailByKristin.Etsy.com. Additionally, I participate in various shows and festivals throughout the year, just keep an eye on my Instagram or Facebook for where I will be. Lastly, I just started a Society 6 for my art and photography at Society6.com/SetSailArt -but it’s just getting started, so keep keep checking in as it grows!
Contact Info:
- Address: Simply Local
3013 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104 - Website: SetSailByKristin.Etsy.com
- Phone: 949-973-4562
- Email: SetSailByKristin@gmail.com
- Instagram: @SetSail.ByKristin
- Facebook: FB.ME/SetSailByKristin
- Other: Society6.com/SetSailArt
Image Credit:
Self
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