The right fabric can be incredibly transformative. Reupholster an old chair of Grandma's in a modern print, and it can become a contemporary piece. The same can be said for any sewing or craft project done with Amy Butler fabrics.
Fresh and fun, fabrics can add an extra special touch to any project. Recognizing the importance of good fabric, Aime Meyers utilizes the charm of Butler's fabrics in her eye pillows. Relaxing in style is easy with Meyers' lavender filled sachets, sold in her Etsy shop JSN Style. Packaged in an adorable carry out box, her eye pillows are already set to make the perfect gift for a stress-ridden friend.
If you have a different type of present in mind, Meyers carries many other gifts geared towards the home and family. These include office and kitchen supplies, as well as her baby boutique, to name a few. It should be noted that items change frequently, so check back often with JSN Style so as not to miss out!
Meyers answered a few questions over email about her work and art.
The Daily Page: How do you motivate your creativity? (e.g. do you listen to music while you create and if so what?)
Meyers: So many different things motivate my creativity. What I like to do is take useful items and make them fun or pretty to use. I love going to fabric and craft stores to peruse their bolts of fabrics, ribbons, trims and papers. I love the use of colors and patterns.
Describe your workspace. Are you at the kitchen table or in a dedicated work area?
Currently my workspace is a work in progress so it has been frequently moving the past couple of months! In the past it has always been in my basement in a designated area. However, in the next few weeks my new lovely craft area should be complete so I can get embroidering, sewing and gluing like crazy and have all of my stuff easily available.
What is your favorite piece and why?
It's difficult to pick a favorite piece. Currently I would say my favorites are a new 'desk top collection' I am working on. These are everyday, useful items that normally would be 'utilitarian' but beautified, such as large tin buckets, clipboards, pencil cups and magnets that all coordinate. What I love about this collection is that all ages and genders can use them. My children have all of the above and use them frequently. For instance the buckets were their Easter baskets and now sit in their rooms holding Lego's or cars. Clipboards are great in the car and doctor offices, I use mine for grocery shopping and my business.
What advice do you have for people interested in starting an online store? How do you make the separation between your store and your day job/personal life?
I would say do your research. While you don't have the costs of an actual storefront there are other expenses, especially if you don't know how to build a retail website and require shopping carts! I would also say to keep your product or services unique. It can be difficult to separate your store from your personal life because it is more time consuming than you may anticipate. Also, complete your orders in a timely manner and communicate with your clients.
What is your favorite local shop in Madison?
Madison has so many great local shops that it gets difficult to pick. I would say one of my favorites is
