Monday, June 20, 2016

Michelle from Chelleybean is today's Monday Maker

Michelle from Chelleybean has been around in the creative industry for a number of years now. Let's find out what her secret is.

Hi Michelle and thanks so much for sharing.

Were you creative as a child?

Yes, I was always creative as a child. I loved trying new things. It didn't really matter what it was, I'd always give it a go. One of my biggest loves is scrapbooking. I love using art to document my family's life. 


My Mum has always been very crafty so I have followed in her footsteps. She's my creative mentor.

How would you describe your work?

Bright, colourful and fun. 
I try to incorporate these 3 things into each and every one of my hair accessories.



Has your work evolved since you started?

It has changed ... A LOT! I look back now and think how plain and simple my hair clips were when I first began back in 2008. Now, I think I've refined it a little, creating special hair accessories for big and little girls alike.

How did you start selling online?

I started selling on Etsy after making some hair accessories for my daughter. 


Friends commented on how beautiful they were and that I should make them to sell. It all started from there...

Do you reduce, reuse, recycle as part of your creative process? 

I do to a degree. 
Nothing gets thrown out.

Like any good crafter knows. There just may be a need for it down the track.



Describe your workspace?

My workspace is located downstairs in our home. 
Half is our rumpus room and the other half is my studio. That way I can create and feel close to my family, while they are watching TV or playing Playstation.

What is your favourite thing to make?

I do love making bows. 
All sorts, shapes, colours and various sizes. 

It's amazing how one simple idea can change so much by using different materials and textures. 

I love how little girls get excited when they see a bow that appeals to them. It makes my day!
How did your shop name come about?

The name "Chelley Bean" is a nickname a girlfriend gave me many years ago. Being a Michelle, I get called Chelle quite often. I loved the name and it kind of stuck, so it became my official business name!

Where do you see your creative journey taking you in the next 12 months?

I'll continue creating my hair accessories. 
They are always evolving as I come up with new ideas. I have plans to add a side avenue to Chelley Bean, but that's still in the planning at this stage. You'll have to follow me on Facebook to find out about that!

What’s your top tip to others wanting to break into the handmade market?

If you're passionate about what you create and it makes you happy, I say go for it. 


Do plenty of research and be prepared for lots of hard work. 

Be open to advice, criticism and be willing to learn. I'm still learning.

Can you describe your typical creative day?

I'm not sure there is a typical creative day? 
I have two school aged children, so I get as much done between the hours of 9am-3pm.

And usually after everyone heads to bed at night, I'll catch up on anything I need to do or do some work on my computer, usually on my website.



Do you have a Favourite quote you'd like to share?

I have always loved this quote...

"Happiness lies in the joy of achievement and the thrill of creative effort" ~ Franklin D. Roosevelt


Do you like to listen to music or have a favourite movie you like to watch while creating?

I love a good podcast while I'm creating. When it comes to music, just about anything goes. I love country as well as latest hits and I don't mind a bit of old school rock either!
What is your favourite handmade item that you have bought?

I purchased a pin cushion on Etsy many years ago from a lovely lady in Sweden. I adore that pin cushion and it has seen so much of my creative journey, as it sits on my desk. It is still in great condition and going strong today.

So where can we find you online?


Website: www.chelleybean.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Chelley-Bean-Designs-182285159500/?ref=hl
Etsy: www.etsy.com/au/shop/Chelleybeandesigns

How long have you been a member of BrisStyle Michelle?

I've been a member of BrisStyle since the early days. I began Chelley Bean back in 2008 and I think I became a BrisStyle member the same year.

How did you find out about BrisStyle way back then?

I found out about BrisStyle online. 
I'm so glad I took the plunge and connected with this amazing group of creative minds. I've learnt so much because of BrisStyle and have made some wonderful friends as well.




What made you become a member?

I became a member to connect with other like-minded people and to learn a lot. 
I then became involved with the markets and am now regularly at the twilight markets.

Why do you craft Michelle?

I craft because I love it. It inspires and motivates me. 
I'm not one to sit in front of the TV. I usually sew or create something. I can't sit still and it keeps me busy!

Thanks so much Michelle! It was so lovely to hear your thoughts, especially from such a long time  BrisStyler.

7 comments:

aliyaa said...

I loved people who are creative and always think about new things. You can click here for my creativity.

Anonymous said...

Creativity is really an amazing task like you are doing because it's shows your working abilities as well as some working strength. I must purchase some items that you have displayed but this https://sites.google.com/site/bestessayservicesreview website offers quality task which I prefer to all other students. Thank you!

Nancy said...

Each one of the substance you said in tallying is excessively amazing and can be extraordinarily useful. I will recall that it, an obligation of reply is altogether to part the inform save overhauling, looking take in hand for more posts.resume samples for teachers

Thomas T. Vanover said...

Very informative and great content.

Thomas T. Vanover said...

I do agree with all the ideas you’ve offered to your post. They are very convincing and recommendation letter for graduate school will definitely work. It was so lovely to hear your thoughts amazing how one simple idea can change so much by using different materials and textures. Especially from such a long time BrisStyler. This is really creative task for students. Thanks for the post.

online dissertation writing service said...

Those who are creative designers and thinking to start an online business must read this interview blog. She had very beautiful and colorful items and this shows her creativity.

Shing Chiu said...

I actually do concur with the suggestions you’ve agreed to your own publish. They're really persuading as well as suggestion notice with regard to move on college will certainly function. It had been therefore beautiful to know your ideas quantum mechanics homework solver incredible exactly how one easy concept can alter a lot by utilizing various supplies as well as textures.This really is truly innovative job with regard to college students.