Amaia Papaya

This month I had back-to-back markets, so I thought what better time than now to share my vendor packing list! I usually set up shop at local Farmers Markets or indie craft fairs that tend to be on the smaller size. Mostly because I find that my products tend to fit in better at these events & locations. These events may only last a few hours, but there is certainly a lot of prep-work that goes into them. Most markets require you to submit an online application several months in advance. Generally I write out a list of what events I want to attend and then start searching for application details. Once I have all the information, I'll set reminders on my calendar so I don't miss the deadlines. Be sure to have photos of your booth display and products on hand to submit with the applications. Once accepted, the entrance fees are generally around $25-35, depending on the event. The organizers will send you load-in time, vendor booth number, load-out details, and ...

Oh hey there! I have not forgotten about you little blog. Life has just gotten a bit crazy these days. With work, the shop, our little Amaia, friends, family, sewing, etc. etc. etc., writing has been put on the back burner. But, that doesn't mean that the shop hasn't been making tons of progress during that time. Since we last talked, we've done five farmers markets (more on that later!), gone through our first holiday season, added a new machine to our shop, continued to sell on Etsy , and gained lots of new followers over on our Instagram page. My original goal with this blog was to share my journey of starting a handmade business. And that's just what I plan to do. So here's what you can expect from here in the near future: sewing tips, info on vending at farmers markets, background on why eco-friendly products are so important to me, and a glimpse into our little shop. Right now we are gearing up for our next farmers market. Which means every table surfac...

It's no mystery that kids can take up a lot of your time and energy. After chasing my 14 month old around all day, the idea of settling down at my sewing table for a late night of work can be downright terrifying. I'm still trying to navigate mamahood and discover what works for me, but I thought I'd share these super helpful tips to find more time to create...or do whatever it is you love to do! ►Nap time is the best time. Sure there are chores to tackle, but creating is more fun. Use your free time to tackle one project at a time. And don't get frustrated if things get cut short. Because they will. ►Get everything ready to sew/knit/crochet/paint/whateveryoulike the night before. That way you can just jump head first into things when you have a free moment. ►Better yet, wake up EARLY. Again, terrifying, but if you can get yourself in a routine of getting things organized for the next day and heading to bed early, you can do it. Set a 10pm bedtime and things w...

Around here, things are starting to feel like the end of summer. That means we're trying to squeeze in as much time as possible outside, enjoying every minute. Long walks after work, trips to the playground & park, movie nights under the stars, and concerts downtown. Summer life is sweet. But that also means that I've been gearing up for fall in the shop. We have a few shows coming up in November, so I'm working on curating supplies and building up my product stock. There is nothing better than the sound of my sewing machine humming away mixed with the giggles of my little one running around underfoot. As a part of my fall shop plans, I decided to take a step back and really educate myself on the handmade business process & freshen up my sewing skills. I truly believe that education is empowering and the key to success. Your local library is a great resource for this. They have tons of 'selling handmade' books with excellent tips from so...

Hi Friends! We're back from our amazing family trip to Disney and the shop is now officially open! We had an incredible time enjoying our vacation, but I have to admit that I am so happy to be back here creating and making. I'm feeling re-charged and re-inspired to work as hard as ever with my shop. So in honor of it's mini re-opening today, we're having a quick sale! Go ahead and treat yourself to something sweet and enjoy 15% off all items currently listed. Just use code SHOPLOVE15 at checkout. PLUS all tote bags have been marked down to $15 plus shipping. Don't miss out on this great handmade deal. Just click on the 'Shop' link on the home page and you'll have everything right at your finger tips. Glad to be back! Keep your eyes peeled for a post-vacation breakdown very soon! Alyssa/Amaia Papaya Shop

I've been working on my little handmade shop for about 7 months now. It's been pretty slow going with working full time, having a one year old (how did she get this old already!), maintaining a home, and trying to stay sane while doing it all. Most of my work is done in the early morning, late at night, or during nap time. But it's always something I've dreamed of doing and I'm determined to make it happen. And at least I'm having fun making pretty things while trying! Here's my current work space. A wooden table nestled in the corner of our living room. Small space living at it's best! It wasn't until after my daughter was born that I discovered this amazing online community of successful woman that are making their handmade shops and dreams become a reality. They have truly been an inspiration in this process. Creating and making things has always been my passion in life. Growing up I never liked sports and I hated any sort of extr...

Amaia was recently (does April count as recent? mom time is much different than real time.) gifted a Dora the Explorer birthday balloon that has provided hours  of entertainment. The balloon has since deflated and now sits sadly on the floor still attached to the back of a chair. But we cannot get rid of this balloon because it has become a staple toy for the little miss Amaia/ might  cause an epic meltdown. Dora has become a very good friend around these parts. As I was strolling the aisles of Joann a few weeks ago, I stumbled across some cute Dora fleece and decided to whip up a quick blanket. Mostly in hopes that I could toss the balloon. It took me about an hour to complete. Thought I would share my DIY steps with you all.  Here we go! Materials : One yard of your favorite fleece (or more, it's up to you) Rotary cutter and mat, or scissors Cutting ruler Pins Sewing machine & basic sewing machine supplies Coordinating thread 1)  Lay you...