I'm very excited to share this special artist feature with you: the lovely and very talented Rikkianne from Chakra Pennywhistle! Rikkianne has a wonderful heart and is a delight to get to know. She's an incredible artist who practices what she preaches: the Golden Rule, collaboration and community.
Make sure to read to the end, then be sure to enter the giveaway that Rikkianne is very generously sponsoring!
Your name: Rikkianne
Your shop name(s)/url(s): Chakra Pennywhistle
Your blog(s): Chakra Pennywhistle
Your flickr ID/url: Chakra Pennywhistle (Severely neglected at the moment)
Your non-Etsy website/other websites (e.g., Trunkt, 1000 Markets, etc.): http://www.chakrapennywhistle.com
Tell us a bit about you: who you are, who you want to be, what you make, what makes you unique?
My name is Rikkianne, I live in Tucson, Arizona, and I’m married to my best friend, Dave. We have a lovely three-year old daughter, Mia, and we also share our home with my grandmother, Barb.
Art has been in my life for as long as I can remember. From dance, to drama, to sewing and design, I really don’t know what I would do without some form of art in my life. I have always found pleasure in making something new out of something old. I also feel the need to support forward-thinking businesses, specifically those that incorporate eco-friendly practices. I now feel that I have found my passion and I’m tremendously grateful for the entire indie/handmade community.
(Rikkianne, Dave and Mia)
What do you think it is about you that makes your shop(s) successful?
I try and live and work by the Golden Rule. With every single order, I think about what kind of experience I would like to have. I like to get packages that are wrapped creatively and with care. I like to see handwritten notes. I go the extra mile with my product and hope to see the same when I make a purchase. As for the materials I choose to employ, I like to take the environment into consideration in both the product and its packaging. As far as my designs are concerned, I try to communicate an appreciation for history and hope that everyone can see that ... I really try and relay what the handmade lifestyle means to me. We are both a personal community and business. I feel that it is my duty to promote that! There is something so special about the handmade experience – an experience that doesn’t just stop once the product has been produced. It is my intention to make that experience extend through the act of the purchase, and upon receipt of the item itself...Is Etsy your fulltime day job, or do you do this on top of a day job
I stay at home with my daughter, Mia. She is 3 years old. When she was born, my husband and I decided that I would take care of her and start my business. The whole family pitches in whenever I need it. However, it can be a challenge trying to balance it all. Mia has just started preschool and I believe that I am in need of a more structured work schedule. Instead of fiddling around wondering what to do without my gal, I now have time to really get to work and do things like get into the studio and print! I am excited and am just now beginning to find my groove.
Mia, interrupting a wallet photo shoot (so cute!)
How did you learn your particular art/craft form?
I actually taught myself how to sew – even though that makes me a bit uncomfortable to say as I do have friends that have provided invaluable tips to me along the way.What was the most difficult thing for you to learn when you initially set up your Etsy shop?
I also took a fantastic screen-printing course from the local community college. I am so thrilled that I had the chance to do that because I believe that I have truly found my passion. What better way to learn how to do it than in a small community setting!
Shipping can be difficult. I am still trying to figure out the most reasonable and safe way to pack and ship my items.
What do you know now that you wish you’d known back when you set up your Etsy shop?
You know, comparing the past to the present really gives me a great appreciation for the evolution of it all. I learn something new every single day. Etsy and the entire blogosphere are so generous with small business knowledge that it can sometimes become overwhelming to try and keep up with the wealth of information. Perhaps my wish would have been to have thought to bookmark and file all of that information in an easy to reach place!What stresses you out the most about your business?
Trying to wear all of the different hats. I have discovered that when you are an Etsy seller, you are the artist, photographer, rep., shipping clerk, admin. asst., accountant, etc.
What gets you the most excited?
When someone takes the time to email a note and let me know that they like my work. It is so special when someone takes a couple minutes out of his or her life to say hi. I feel deeply honored each and every time that happens.Share one of your personal guilty pleasures?
I love the Bravo Channel. I don’t get to watch television as much as I would like. You can find me at about 1 in the morning clicking on the tivo and vegging out to the Real Housewives. I can’t help it… I love that stuff! I need more sleep! Ha :)
Rikkianne's inspiration wall in her sewing room
Do you shop handmade? If so, what was the last thing you purchased?
Oh yes. I am just about all handmade and vintage. We do have to run to Target from time to time but I can tell you that my house is full of vintage furniture and my closet is Etsy and thrift.
The last thing that I bought on Etsy was a Xenotees t-shirt for my brother-in-law. I just bought that today!
What one piece of advice, tip or trick would you share with both new and more established sellers?
Get out there and promote yourself. Whether it’s by way of making etsy treasuries, sharing news and notes on twitter, or joining an Etsy team, you will get everything you put into it. Celebrate the fact that you are able to share your passion. Collaborate instead of compete as much as possible.
Thank you so much, Rikkianne!
I can personally attest to the care and thought that Rikkianne puts not only into her creations, but also her packaging, shipping, and communication. A Chakra Pennywhistle purchase is a special experience from start to finish!
One very very lucky Phydelle reader will win a beautiful Chakra Pennywhistle dish towel, winner's choice of the tomato or the rooster (I have both in my kitchen - looove them!)!
To enter, share with us your favorite piece in Rikkianne's shop (check out her "sold" section, too!), including URL.
CRUCIAL!!! You must include your name (at least first name) and email address OR Etsy shop name!!! If your entry is missing that information, you aren't eligible for the drawing (I'm so sorry, but compiling entries is work! Make it easier with your name and contact info, por favor!).
Bonus entries for:
- Following this blog (Phydelle)
- Following Rikkianne on Twitter
- Following Rikkianne on her blog
- Blogging about the giveaway (your blog post must include a link to this giveaway post!)
- Tweeting about this interview and giveaway, with a link to this contest post (cc me on the twitter for verification - @phydeauxdesigns )
- Subscribing to the Phydelle/Phydeaux mailing list (top left corner of this web page)
121 comments:
My favorite item is the Moneybag Clutch (BofA2). I absolutely LOVE this! Thanks for the great giveaway!
Ann
ann dot guns at mac dot com
I'm a subscriber to your blog.
Ann
ann dot guns at mac dot com
I now also follow Rikkiana on twitter (username gunzie73).
Ann
ann dot guns at mac dot com
first of all i love the: "Moneybag Clutch (BofA2"
and all pillows..
like the:tassel, swerdfish and much more!
thanks!
carmel
carmelita@windowslive.com
and i am a follower of your blog
thanks!
carmel
carmelita@windowslive.com
and i blogged about the giveaway
thank you
carmel
carmelita@windowslive.com
and i became a follower of rikkiannes blog to
carmel
carmelita@windowslive.com
I really think her pillows are very lovely! I especially like this one called the Wreath Pillow
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28410463
Ally
rubymoonstone AT gmail DOT com
Email subscriber to your blog updates.
Ally
rubymoonstone AT gmail DOT com
Already following your blog on Google Friend Connect/Blogger (Ally)
rubymoonstone AT gmail DOT com
Having a little problem following Rikkianne (this has happened w/ others). Following from the Blogger upper task bar does not want to work. And I see no gallery of faces to follow from there. So following Rikkianne as rubymoon but it may not show up so just email me if I win and I will do it over and over till it takes. Very annoying.
Ally
rubymoonstone AT gmail DOT com
I love the birthday shirt.
What a lovely giveaway I love the little modern birds they are sooo cute and the rooster apron is adorable as well.Thanks for the giveaway.Helen
helenmillicent@yahoo.com
I like the Little Modern Birds :)
Melissa
eod_army_wife04(at)yahoo(dot)com
I love http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27856657
My name:Laia
my email: laiafortuny(at)gmail(dot)com
I'm loving the Little Modern Bird pillows. THey are just too cute.
Shelley
freeindeed at myfairpoint dot net
I like tassel pillow (sold)
Siret
egateris at gmail dot com
I like the little modern birds pillow.
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28813853
kristaR
crabapple3@gmail.com
My favorite is the tulips pillow!
Heather
hrfarley at gmail dot com
Thanks for the pretty giveaway! My fave items in your shop are the "Love Me" pillow set.
Zoe0825@verizon.net
I'm a follower of phydelle!
Zoe0825@verizon.net
I like:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27856657
I LOVE the Circle the Date shirt!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28152136
Money bank pillow is fantastic!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=26491104
Thanks!
cal_rubies at yahoo dot es
suscriber!
cal_rubies at yahoo dot es
the tassel pillow is really cute!
Alison
gemini5757 at hotmail.com
my favorite item is the Little Modern Birds pillow. too cute!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28813853
Thanks
Caitlin H.
caitlinhyla AT gmail DOT com
My favorite item is Little Modern Birds.
http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=18222625
Linna
linna.hsu at gmail dot com
I follow your blog
roxxyroller(at)hotmail(dot)com
Canadian Contests, Freebies, Coupons, Deals, Games and Chat - join us at http://forum.coolcanucks.ca/
Little Modern Birds Square Pillows are my fave, absolutely gorgeous!!
roxxyroller(at)hotmail(dot)com
Canadian Contests, Freebies, Coupons, Deals, Games and Chat - join us at http://forum.coolcanucks.ca/
I'm now Following Rikkianne on her blog
roxxyroller(at)hotmail(dot)com
Canadian Contests, Freebies, Coupons, Deals, Games and Chat - join us at http://forum.coolcanucks.ca/
I'm now Following Rikkianne on Twitter as coolcanucks!
roxxyroller(at)hotmail(dot)com
Canadian Contests, Freebies, Coupons, Deals, Games and Chat - join us at http://forum.coolcanucks.ca/
I follow on Twitter as coolcanucks
roxxyroller(at)hotmail(dot)com
Canadian Contests, Freebies, Coupons, Deals, Games and Chat - join us at http://forum.coolcanucks.ca/
I own CoolCanucks.ca, which is a Canadian Contest and Freebie site. This giveaway is shared here:
http://forum.coolcanucks.ca/23786-phydelle-chakra-pennywhistle-giveaway-sept27-canada
roxxyroller(at)hotmail(dot)com
Canadian Contests, Freebies, Coupons, Deals, Games and Chat - join us at http://forum.coolcanucks.ca/
I also follow you on Twitter as coolcanucks
roxxyroller(at)hotmail(dot)com
Canadian Contests, Freebies, Coupons, Deals, Games and Chat - join us at http://forum.coolcanucks.ca/
I tweeted and CC'd you!
http://twitter.com/coolcanucks/status/4301649099
roxxyroller(at)hotmail(dot)com
Canadian Contests, Freebies, Coupons, Deals, Games and Chat - join us at http://forum.coolcanucks.ca/
I am now Subscribed to the Phydelle/Phydeaux mailing list!
roxxyroller(at)hotmail(dot)com
Canadian Contests, Freebies, Coupons, Deals, Games and Chat - join us at http://forum.coolcanucks.ca/
I am a big fan of Rikkianne. It was a pleasure to read more about her. I love so many of her items but the Iron Work pillow just stood out for me tonight.
-cicadastudio.etsy
My favorite item, after lusting for them all, is the rooster dish towel.
Thanks, Heather
chapman.hm at gmail dot com
I love the modern birds! ADORABLE!
cms_36451@yahoo.com
i really love it all - and i already have a tulip pillow...i think the circle the date patches are quite adorable, and the lovely Mia is quite the model! i follow Rikkianne everywhere - and we're going thrifting again this week - yea!
alex kell
alexkeller.etsy.com
I like the moneybag clutch
Linda Kish
lkish77123 at gmail dot com
i love the Tulips Square Pillow!
fsarah09 at gmail dot com
I like the tassel pillow
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27266074
Vicki tiramisu392 (at) yahoo.com
oops! forgot the link.
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=20534889
i follow!
i like the love pillows and the circle the date patches!
amiddleton85
gmail
The tomato dish towel is beautiful,
Shannon F.
shannonfiner@yahoo.com
I really like the moneybag wallet and clutch. Really cool idea!
Shelly
joyfulgirlnaturals@gmail.com
Im now a follower on twitter . JGNP
Im a subscriber to your blog. Shelly Henley
I subscribed to the newsletter.joyfulgirlnaturals@gmail.com
Fav is Moneybag Clutch (BofA2)
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29008690
copperllama at yahoo dot com
I follow this blog
copperllama at yahoo dot com
I'm following on Twitter @aikchien
aikychien at yahoo dot com
I'm a follower.
aikychien at yahoo dot com
I love the Little Modern Birds - Style 2 pillow.
aikychien at yahoo dot com
I tweeted.
http://twitter.com/aikchien/status/4321084284
aikychien at yahoo dot com
I'm following her blog.
aikychien at yahoo dot com
Posted your giveaway on my blog: http://www.hmgiveaways.com/2009/09/dish-towel-from-chakra-pennywhistle.html
We will tweet the giveaway as well! Feel free to submit your future handmade giveaways to us:)
hmgiveaways[at]gmail[dot]com
My favorite item is the: Trees pillow
Thanks for the chance!
hmgiveaways[at]gmail[dot]com
I love Rikkianne! I have had the pleasure of doing business with her and look forward to our next exchange. I already follow her blog & on twitter!
I love everything she makes and I love what she stands for! She is an articulate artist with integrity.
I am especially fond of her moneybag wallets and will own one someday soon :)
If I win, I would love either of the prizes!
Thank you for this awesome interview!
Kendra
of GreenPost.etsy.com
I like the money bag wallet she sold
http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=16056082
katch05 at gmail dot com
I follow Phydelle
Stephanie, malibu.bunny.xo@live.ca
I love the Little Modern Birds pillow! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28813853
Stephanie, malibu.bunny.xo@live.ca
And I follow Rikkianne's blog
Stephanie, malibu.bunny.xo@live.ca
I subscribe to your mailing list :)
Stephanie, malibu.bunny.xo@live.ca
I LOVE the rooster dish towel...it's just adorable! Rikkianne is such a peach too, I'm so glad you featured her!
ottomanhandmade at yahoo dot com
....and a follower of the blog!
I am now a follower on twitter!
Can't miss out on this one. Have been a fan for the longest time.
My etsy name is noblegnome.
I love the rooster, can't resist entering. I'm getting an apartment soon and I'm going to need to decorate it!
One of my favorite items is the Moneybag Wallet. I love that it's made from a vintage bag.
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_1&listing_id=30150417
Thanks so much!
-Lily
lilygreig at gmail dot com
lovecharles.etsy.com
I love love love chakrapennywhistle!! My favorite item (of the moment) is her Tulips Square Pillow.
Thanks for giving us the opportunity to get to know her a bit better!
Robin
The Fancy Lamb
TheFancyLamb.etsy.com
And I tweeted about this contest!
I follow @chakrapenny on Twitter!
Following RikkiAnne on twitter @micaela6955
micaela6955 at msn dot com
I like the MoneyBag Pillow Bank of Guam http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30546689
micaela6955 at msn dot com
Michele P.
I love the idea of the save the date patches and most of all the Money Bag Pillows: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=26490840. What a great way to reuse our resources!
the_outsider01AThotmailDOTcom
I love this shop! It's hard to pick a favorite, but I'll say it's Little Modern Birds - Style 2.
lesjoujou AT gmail DOT com
Sorry, Phyd
buttercupbloom.etsy.com
buttercupbloom@gmail.com
Hi!! I follow both you guys's blogs! AND both of you guys's Twitters!! I just lovvvve everything in Pennywhistle's shop - but the moneybag wallets are just too cool for school!
i adore the Tulips pillow!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28189068
fertawert AT yahoo DOT com
She has lovely items.
I especially love the Little Modern Birds pillows.
pippirose59 at gmail dot com
I am subscribed to your email newsletter.
pippirose59 at gmail dot com
I like the Tulips.
jswandrn @ gmail.com
following this blog
I really love the Little Modern Birds - Style 2 pillow!
Janette
decadent87@gmail.com
Following Rikkianne on her blog
Following Rikkianne on Twitter (@jsoldham)
tweeted: http://twitter.com/jsoldham/status/4388807366
subscribed to the mailing list
I follow your blog
Canadian Contests, Freebies, Coupons, Deals, Games and Chat - join us at http://forum.coolcanucks.ca/
bluebelle0367(at)hotmail(dot)com
I really like the love me 2 pillow set
Canadian Contests, Freebies, Coupons, Deals, Games and Chat - join us at http://forum.coolcanucks.ca/
bluebelle0367(at)hotmail(dot)com
I follow Rikkianne on twitter as Prairiebelle
Canadian Contests, Freebies, Coupons, Deals, Games and Chat - join us at http://forum.coolcanucks.ca/
bluebelle0367(at)hotmail(dot)com
tweeted
http://twitter.com/Prairiebelle/status/4396441674
Canadian Contests, Freebies, Coupons, Deals, Games and Chat - join us at http://forum.coolcanucks.ca/
bluebelle0367(at)hotmail(dot)com
I like Love Me 2 Pillow set http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27862245
Ave
avetaar2gmail.com
I follow this blog.
Ave
avetaar2gmail.com
I´m following Rikkianne on Twitter (MadeInCanarias),
I love everything in her shop, but especially this wreath throw pillow (and the lemon yellow couch it's sitting on!)
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28410463
Thanks for the chance to win!
Cheers!
Becky of etsy shop:
http://www.thefabmissb.etsy.com
thefabulousmissb(AT)gmail(dot)com
The Little Modern Birds pillow is adorable! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28813853
trixpixel(at)gmail.com
I follow Rikkianne on her blog too.
lea: trixpixel(at)gmail.com
I'm following Rikkianne's blog.
smrtmouse at yahoo dot com
I'm following your blog.
smrtmouse at yahoo dot com
Oh my goodness, I love the custom circle the date onesie - http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28152136
smrtmouse at yahoo dot com
My favorite is the Moneybag Wallet. What a great idea! I am definitely impressed. :)
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=31590308
Cindy of hellcatvintage
hellcatvintage(at)gmail(dot)com
I'm following your blog.
Cindy of hellcatvintage
hellcatvintage(at)gmail(dot)com
I'm following Rikkianne on Twitter.
@hellcatvintage
Cindy
hellcatvintage(at)gmail(dot)com
I'm following Rikkianne on her blog.
Cindy of hellcatvintage
hellcatvintage(at)gmail(dot)com
My favorite item is the ironwork pillow. So simple and reminds me of an old Victorian house...
XO
Rachael (aka Roscata on Etsy)
www.roscata.com
I follow Rickianne on Twitter! I'm roscatastuff.
XO
Rachael (aka Roscata on Etsy)
www.roscata.com
I follow your blog and subscribe to the RSS feed - I love reading it!!!
XO
Rachael (aka Roscata on Etsy)
www.roscata.com
I subscribe to Rickianne's blog RSS feed!
XO
Rachael (aka Roscata on Etsy)
www.roscata.com
Tweet tweet!
http://twitter.com/roscatastuff/status/4411466863
XO
Rachael (aka Roscata on Etsy)
www.roscata.com
Blogged!
http://roscata.com/blog/?p=726
XO
Rachael (aka Roscata on Etsy)
www.roscata.com
I subscribe to your newsletter!
XO
Rachael (aka Roscata on Etsy)
www.roscata.com
I love, love, love the Trees pillow!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16215359
Rachel W.
hello@balancedcrafts.com
My favorite item is the Custom CIRCLE THE DATE Onesie / Tee shirt. Its so darn cute.
Thanks for this giveaway. Please enter me
Cheryl Hodgkins
cherdon@sympatico.ca
Following Rikkianne on Twitter
username - iamcherdon
cherdon@sympatico.ca
I am following this blog (Phydelle)
cherdon@sympatico.ca
Following Rikkianne on her blog
cherdon@sympatico.ca
tweet
http://twitter.com/iamcherdon/status/4423787737
cherdon@sympatico.ca
I subscribe to the Phydelle/Phydeaux mailing list
Thank you so much for subscribing to Phydeaux Designs' newsletter/email distribution list!
cherdon@sympatico.ca
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