Yes, it’s been a super long time since I featured an artist on my blog, but I felt inspired to start again. I love to share some of the amazing work that is for sale on Etsy.
The first featured artist in my new series is Karen Faulkner, who creates watercolor paintings. She offers only originals (no prints), and her work features primarily simple, abstract florals. In fact, I recently purchased one of her beautiful paintings for my new studio.
I think they have a modern appeal about them and people tell me they love the simplicity. – Karen Faulkner
How did you get started making your art?
I’ve been painting for more than ten years and it has gradually grown from being an occasional past time to being one of the main focuses in my life. I’ve had an extremely difficult year personally in 2008 and have really taken refuge in my art. When I’m painting watercolors, I feel like my most essential self, like anything artificial has been stripped away. I’m so glad to have found Etsy as a way to share my artwork with people all over the world. The first time I shipped one of my paintings to another country, it was so exciting!
What inspires you in your work?
I’m inspired by nature of course, and the glorious Pennsylvania countryside around me. There is also an influence of Asian painting style in my work. I try to also communicate emotion in my painting and am often inspired by feelings and relationships. I strive to let the brushstrokes tell a story.
What is your day job?
My professional background is in marketing communications. I have an MBA with a concentration in marketing. I’ve worked on writing and layout of a variety of promotional stuff over the years, including direct mail, brochures, business proposals and websites. Over the past few years I’ve been working less on these kinds of external projects and more on creating my art and building my art business. So I guess you could say I’m taking a leap of faith and have basically quit my day job!
Karen Faulkner’s art can be found in her Etsy shop, and she also sells through local merchants on occasion.
Wow, I think this is the longest I’ve ever gone without writing in my blog… I definitely shouldn’t make a habit of it.
I am part of a new team on Etsy called Etsy Mentors. We have volunteered our time to help mentor other Etsy sellers. We have set up a blog, where I have already written two posts: http://etsymentors.com
Here is the first post I wrote for Etsy Mentors: (To see my more recent post, you’ll just have to visit the Etsy Mentors site! 
In the two years I’ve been an Etsy shop owner, I’ve been asked to do a number of shop critiques, and on many occasions, I’ve asked the requester to do a little homework before I spend my time and energy giving a thorough critique. Why? Because I’m a big meanie? Well, perhaps I am, but I also want to help get your shop in the best possible shape. These steps will help you get ready for your critique:
1. A little light reading
I ask that everyone who approaches me for a critique read all of Etsy’s FAQs, Do’s and Dont’s, and Terms of Use first. I know that it seems like a daunting task, but it is all written in very simple, straightforward language, and it won’t take as long as you think. It’s well worth the time. It’s probably not possible to memorize everything in there, but at least you’ll have a familiarity with what is included in Etsy’s policies and guidelines.
2. Fill in all of your shop sections
Make sure that you have a banner and an avatar, a shop announcement, a profile, a shop policies page, shop sections, a message to buyer, and at least a few listings. It’s difficult to evaluate a shop that isn’t complete.
3. A tiny bit more reading
After setting up shop, check out the EtsyWiki for advice to shop owners. There’s a ton of great advice on photos, pricing, and on successful selling.
4. Make improvements to your shop based on what you’ve read
This step might seem obvious, but be sure to use what you’ve learned. You’ll find that improving your shop is a constant iterative process. There’s always more to learn, and there are always ways to improve.
Now that you’ve completed these four steps, you’re ready for a detailed shop critique. Contact the Etsy Mentor of your choice, and we’ll be happy to give you pointers based on our own experience.
About the Author: My name is ‘Chel, and I’m the owner of Lava Jewelry and Zbella. I’ve been a member of Etsy for just over two years, and I’m available for mentoring in the following areas: Etsy Policies, Shop Critiques, USPS Shipping, and Gemstones.
