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Dear Reader,

I can't believe it's almost Thanksgiving, time is going way too fast. I know your inbox will be filled with plenty of emails in the coming weeks, but before things get too busy I wanted to say my sincere thanks for being here. I really appreciate you and your kind and helpful replies to these emails. Wishing you a safe and joyful holiday season.

Here's what's inside this month's email:

• I have a product shop, here's what I've learned so far.
• Going back to block printing
• My very first in-person art market!

Hope you enjoy!

Yours truly,

Kristi

What happened in October

After years of saying I had no interest in selling physical products, I suddenly found myself with a product shop 🤷‍♀️.

So how in the world did this happen? Well...

I'm really trying to "follow my bliss" (yes, I just said that...and no, I don't generally care for that phrase). But alas here I am saying it.

After illustrating my 2025 calendar I kind of got the bug. It was really fun to design something and share it with the world. So fun in fact that I've added many more listings to my Etsy store...with lots more in the works.

I'm a big believer in sharing what I learn (so that you don't have to make the mistakes I do...and so we can all move forward together). So with that in mind here are a few things I've learned so far.

1. Etsy (or your chosen shop platform) can be your playground. I'm not taking this Etsy thing too seriously. I'm using it as a testing ground to see what people like. So far my calendar is my bestseller which means I'm gonna make one for 2026 too.
2. Margins on POD are a little bit tough. Since I'm not that into holding stock I've started out by making most of my products through POD. This solves the stock problem, but the margins on some of these products are real slim. I'm testing out a few ideas on this front that I'll be sure to share in future emails.
3. Coming up with product ideas is fun...and addicting. I have a list that I keep adding to with product ideas. Right now I'm slinging all the spaghetti at the wall, or "failing fast" as some might say. I'm not focused on a particular type of product, instead, I'm trying to create a good mix with lots of different price points. I've learned a lot from Dylan Jahraus' YouTube channel in case you are interested.

What’s inspiring me lately…

I recently broke out my Woodzilla and did some printing again! It's been really fun to reignite that part of my creative practice. I haven't carved any new blocks; instead, I'm reprinting older ones with different colors and on different papers. If you want a little peek at the process, head over to Instagram to check out this little video I made.

Sometimes inspiration is right under your nose, or in an old sketchbook. If you are feeling stuck take a look at your old artwork. Who knows, it might inspire you to create something new.

One more thing worth sharing...

Grateful Friday Market On Friday, November 29th I'll be participating in my very first in-person craft market! If you live in SoCal I'd love to see you (really! I made one of my good art friends by introducing myself at a market). Inspired by the model of local community markets all throughout the Americas, Mercadita Mágica is an eclectic gathering of local artists, makers, creators, artisans and local businesses that uplifts and celebrates the magic of interconnectedness of our community. When: Friday, November 29th from 12-6 pm Where: outside Vroman's Bookstore in Pasadena, CA ​ Learn More

Warmly,

If you love my newsletter and other content and want to help support me here's a link to my Tip Jar.

Support from people like you helps me continue to do what I do, and it is much appreciated.

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