Lessons Learned in my First Year on Etsy

Lessons Learned in my First Year on Etsy

by Karla Fidoe (owner and maker of Pop of Color Bags)

I opened my Etsy shop, Pop of Color Bags, on February 19, 2019. Let me start off by saying, I'm not a millionaire or getting to retire early because my shop was a wild success. I am a full time elementary school teacher. I opened my shop at the encouragement of my friends and my third graders. I was doing a month of morning meetings on the topic of following your dreams. All kids believe if you want something, it magically happens. I was trying to teach them that once you know your dream, you take steps to achieve it - they may be tiny steps, but each day you do a little more until you realize your dream. And then it hit me, I wanted to have a reason to sew more - I wanted to have the confidence to sell my handbags online. So, I opened my shop.

That first day was a little like losing your virginity. You feel like you have had this major life event, and you keep checking in the mirror to see if other people will notice the monumental change. Opening the shop was anti-climatic. It's not like you start hearing the cha-ching chime as soon as your shop is live. 

And then I made my first sale in that first week. I realized I had not thought about how I would print the shipping labels, or where I would drop off the package - and immediately panicked. Here's lesson number 1: Before panicking, read the Etsy help articles. They really do walk you through every situation. 

Lesson number 2: Join an Etsy Facebook group. Be careful, they are extremely useful for posting questions or asking for shop critiques, but don't get sucked into the complaining, sob stories about shops getting closed, or competing with other shops (some people post their stats regularly). I use the Facebook group to help me understand changes Etsy occasionally makes, and to ask random questions. The community is great at answering and allaying fears, giving advice, and sharing perspectives you may not have considered when it comes to understanding Etsy.

Lesson number 3: Once I had more than 50 items in my shop, I started getting more views generated by Etsy. I did research my tags (ETSY SEO), updated my Etsy shop at least once a day, and used Canva to create Pinterest graphics. But, in the end, having more items gave me the biggest boost in views, and I started getting spotted on the first couple of page views for wristlet clutches, instead of being on page 100. 

Lesson number 4: Create a blog. I know, this is the hardest step, but makes the most difference in the views you receive from Pinterest. I went from 10 monthly view to 23k monthly views in the space of 10 months, and all because I started blogging. Sure, graphics are great on Pinterest, but having tutorials and commentary (just like I would click on when I am researching ideas) means you get more interest. You are more likely to be re-pinned. I have almost 28,000 impressions on just 2 of my blog posts, and that is just in the last 90 days.

Lesson number 5: Do it your way. There's a lot of talk about "branding," but if you stay true to your vision, and what you love, you'll have an automatic brand. All of my purses go together. Every single one has a sense of my style and attention to details. If I just researched other shops, and tried to recreate their successes, I would lose my voice. By doing what I love, my brand shows through loud and clear.

I feel like I had a great first year, and am happy I took the plunge. In the next year, I am challenging myself to do better, and to continue tweaking my shop. My photographs could always be better, I should blog more, I should think about variations instead of just having one of a kind items. But for now, in this last week of 2019, I'm going to marvel at the fact I sold purses to 14 different states, made 78 sales, and was able to do this by sewing what I love.

Happy Sewing!
Karla 

Eco-Friendly Purses

Eco-Friendly Purses

by Karla Fidoe (owner and maker of Pop of Color Bags)

I didn't set out to sew eco-friendly purses. I sew because I love taking a fabric, combining prints and textures, and making something beautiful. Every piece of fabric tells a story, and I am lucky enough to be the narrator. 

The richest textures just happen to come from eco-friendly resources. Cork fabric is durable, has a buttery soft feel, and adds structure to a purse. Cotton can come in an endless variety of prints and colors, and adds a luxurious feel to a bag. With these two fabrics, I can tell a beautiful story.

A cotton canvas fabric can be combined with cotton rope handles to create an everyday market bag. *Side note: I created this bag and was worried about the cotton rope handles in button holes. So I tested it out by carrying it for a week. I toted my laptop, glass lunch dish, and a cork wristlet most days. The button holes haven't stretched, and the rope handles add a fun detail. After a week, I made a few more,  but have continued to carry mine, as it has become my favorite everyday market bag! It matches my cork wristlet, and gives a boho feel that compliments my style.

Creating eco-friendly bags wasn't my original mission, but has become my preferred fabric choices for sewing. The richness of the fabrics make beautiful bags.

Happy Shopping!

Karla

What are you looking for in a purse?

What are you looking for in a purse?

by Karla Fidoe (owner and maker of Pop of Color Bags)

I've said many times that what draws me to sewing purses is the fact that a purse always fits. Before I started making my own, I would spend hours searching for that perfect purse. 

Cork Wristlet Clutch with Phone Pocket

I would try them on in department stores and walk around to see if it was going to be "the one." So many purses slip off my shoulders, or are too bulky and make my arm float. Then there's the ones with a thousand pockets, which seem like a good idea, but in reality, means you can't remember which pocket holds your keys and spend forever searching for what you need. Of course, there is also always the surprising heavy empty purse which is sure to make my neck hurt once I start adding my own belongings.

To me, a purse is like jewelry. It completes an outfit with that last bit of detail. It can take a mundane, running errands outfit, to a completed, "I've got this," feeling that boosts confidence and makes sure you are ready to face your day.

Bow Tie Clutch Wristlet

Woven Wristlet Clutch

Wristlet Clutch with Bold Print

So what kind of purse has these magical qualities? My answer, a simple wristlet clutch. Cost effective enough so you can have multiple clutches, this modern handbag allows you to complete an outfit, easily change purses, and throw it inside a tote when you need more space. With multiple styles, it is easy to find a wristlet which shows your identity.

What are you looking for in a purse? Share your comments with me!

See a style you like? Check out my Etsy shop, Pop of Color Bags.
Happy Shopping! Karla

A Boho Fall Collection

Boho Fall Collection

by Karla Fidoe (owner and maker of Pop of Color Bags)

In my head, Boho style is a mix of the 60s hippie fashion with an eclectic twist. Choosing Boho clothes results in a modern wardrobe that is whimsical, has geometrical elements, and looks effortless. I love being able to mix and match prints, add decorative elements, and pair textures. 

Tips for Layering Clothes

Tips for Layering Clothes

by Karla Fidoe (owner and maker of Pop of Color Bags)

I have to admit that I'm no longer so young, and part of aging is a rising body temperature (at least in my experience!) I love the look of layering, but I find myself quickly shedding the layers, and at the end of the day, I'm wearing just the basics.

So, how do you layer without adding warmth? You go for the idea of layers, without actually adding a ton of clothes! Think about it. The eye perceives layers because of the different fabrics, prints, and textures - not the bulkiness.

Use websites like www.shoplook.io to find ideas. 

Start with a basic (lightweight for me!) dress. Then add a ruana for texture and contrast. A ruana/kimono/cardigan/blazer/scarf are perfect additions for camouflaging body parts you may be self conscious about and most are open so that you are not adding warmth. Your shoes become your next layer - they can provide an interesting contrast in pattern, texture, or a pop of color.

Your last layer is the lightest: layering jewelry and a hand bag to complete the look. I'm not saying to layer so much jewelry that you are mistaken for Mr. T., but wearing a few mismatch bracelets, 2 necklaces, or even 2 kinds of dangling earrings gives the layering effect a boost. My favorite layer is the hand bag layer because it is a functional part of your outfit, but doesn't add any bulk or warmth to your clothes.

Have tips to add to this blog? Great! Leave a comment!

Hand Strap Clutch Wristlet

Why You Should Be Carrying a Hand Strap Clutch Wristlet

by Karla Fidoe (owner and maker of Pop of Color Bags)

Every woman has a few purses in her closet. One is for those days where you feel like you have a thousand things to carry. One is for everyday use - that comfortable bag you fall back on to run errands, shop, and go to work. And then we all have that special purse, the one for going out, weddings, or travel.

The Hand Strap Clutch can't help with those days where you need a tote bag for carrying snacks, changes of clothes, first aid supplies, what have you. But, the Hand Strap Clutch can replace your everyday bag and special purse. Let me tell you why.

Depending on your needs, a hand strap clutch wristlet can be made in many different sizes - from the width of your hand to an oversized clutch that measures 13" x 9". This takes care of most women's purse size needs. 

Depending on your casual wear, there are different options for the hand strap clutch. A straight forward strap pairs best with women who wear athleisure clothes on most days. A bow hand strap clutch works for those whose casual wear is more office appropriate or jeans. However, depending on your personality, you can make either style work for your everyday purse.

Now, for special occasions, the same hand strap clutch works. The hand strap becomes an extra piece of jewelry, rather than just a purse. It dresses up well - you can imagine yourself going out, attending a wedding, seeing a play, to a concert, anything! 

Okay, so I've convinced you that the look of the hand strap clutch fits into every event you may need it for. Now, what else makes it the "go to bag"? The bag is designed to be light and well balanced, but still have structure. It is meant to cradle between your fingers and palm, and the weight is distributed between your hand and the strap around your wrist.  Need an extra hand for carrying drinks? Simply slide the wrist strap further up your arm to free your hand. You can also use the optional wrist strap for those moments where you need both hands for something larger to hold.

Any outfit, any occasion, and any clothing style works for a hand strap clutch. It's eye catching, unusual, and sure to receive compliments. Find your Hand Strap Clutch at Pop of Color Bags.

Not your usual Tote Bag

Three Steps to Create a Compliment Worth Tote Bag

by Karla Fidoe (owner and maker of Pop of Color Bags)

Scroll through Pinterest, walk around a department store,  or go out in public anywhere and you'll see tote bags being carried by most women.  We carry a tote because of the convenience. The open mouth makes it easy to grab your wallet or keys.  The size means you don't have to edit what you carry.  The shape is flattering for all body types.

I carry a tote bag half of the time. However, it is not a bag you get compliments on. I want to change that! I want a tote bag with personality and style.

The struggle I have is to create an adult tote bag that isn't boring, but still has that sophisticated feel. Enter step one. Choose a base fabric which has a rich texture or basic geometric pattern.

Step two. Think about colors you typically wear. (A purse is a lot like jewelry, if it matches, it brings together the whole look.) Choose a pop of color fabric which showcases your personality and style.

Step three. What can you add to the tote that makes it extra? It could be a trim, a pocket placement, or an embellishment like a tassel.

When following these 3 steps, you can build a tote bag that stands out in a crowd. Happy sewing!

Beautiful and Functional: Vertical Pockets to Modernize Wristlet Clutch

A Perfect Wristlet Clutch

by Karla Fidoe (Pop of Color Bags)

I've come to think of a purse as jewelry. It adds to an outfit, and can even become a statement piece. Carrying the perfect purse brings my outfit together, and makes me feel like I have it together. Never mind that I realize I only put in one earring and my socks don't match... I know my wristlet clutch is perfect and is sure to draw compliments.

What makes this bag so magical? I've been sewing pockets on the outside of my bags for years. It doesn't matter if it's an over-sized tote or a small clutch, having a pocket
for my phone is more convenient than opening a bag or rooting around in the bottom to find that pesky phone. With a wristlet, most people sew a horizontal pocket and use a magnetic clasp for securing items inside the pocket. Why?

Vertical Pockets up the Ante on Function for a Wristlet Clutch

When you carry a wristlet, you place the strap around your wrist and it dangles vertically. Your horizontal pocket is now open on the side. I end up spending a lot of time checking to make sure my phone hasn't slipped out. Sewing a diagonal pocket means when I'm carrying my wristlet, my phone is vertical and can't slip out. Such a simple change makes a huge, functional impact! Find your perfect wristlet at my #etsyshop Pop of Color Bags.

Bow Hand Strap Clutch Tutorial

Bow Hand Strap Clutch Tutorial

by Karla Fidoe (owner and maker of Pop of Color Bags)

I hate to watch videos or print out patterns. Let's be honest, most sewing patterns for handbags start with a rectangle and build from there. If you can sew a zipper, you can build almost any bag through trial and error. This tutorial is meant for those of you who are comfortable sewing a zipper pouch and are looking to branch out from there into other design aspects.

Materials:

* (cut 2) 11 x 8 inch rectangles for exterior (I used cork fabric for the base of my wristlet clutch)

* (cut 2) 11 x 8 inch rectangles for interior (I prefer to use cotton on the interior)

* (cut 2) 13 x 10 inch rectangles for bow hand strap (a sturdier fabric like outdoor fabric or canvas works best)

* 12 inch zipper

* d-ring

* lobster claw

* 1 x 3 inch rectangle of exterior fabric (for center of bow)

* (cut 2) 2 x 4 inch rectangle of interior fabric (for ends of zipper)

** depends on size of your d-ring and lobster claw, but you'll need to cut a tab and wrist strap

Steps:
1. Attach the zipper to the outside and inside fabrics on both sides.

2. Sew the bow fabrics down the top and bottom sides, right sides together. 

3. Turn bow right side out and iron the seams flat.

4. Sew cork, right sides together, at ends to make a circle.

5. Turn cork fabric circle rights side out.

6. Accordion fold the bow so you can slip on the cork fabric ring.

7. Once the ring is in the middle of the bow, fluff out the ends to make the bow, rather than have accordion pleats.

8. Use wonder clips to pin the bow onto the front of the zipper pouch. Line up the top peaks of the bow with your top stitch seam line.

9. Sew a baste stitch along each side of the bow to keep it in place when you construct the wristlet.

10. Sew the wristlet as you normally would a zipper pouch. Make sure to add your d-ring for the wrist strap.  *When you pull everything through to make the bag right side out, it will look frumpy. Notice the d-ring is tucked under the bow?

11. The bow is on the wrong side of the bag! Simply pull it through the bottom of the bag to re-situate it on the correct side.

12. Your bag is finished! Notice the d-ring is now visible, and the bow lays flat. The back is also flat.

Summer Bags 2019

Summer Bags Trends

by Karla Fidoe (owner and maker of Pop of Color Bags)

The latest trends are bold prints, lots of palm fronds, pops of color, and cork wristlets. This Bow Hand Strap Clutch has it all! The cork fabric is fun to work with - no frays, no sticking under the zipper foot, and it isn't too thick in the seams. The bow is made out of outdoor fabric - for the sturdiness, it's water resistant, and retains its color well.

I love the ease and uniqueness of a hand strap clutch. For summer, I modified my design to have a bow hand strap. This clutch wristlet is fun, eye catching, and screams summertime!

Come find your perfect summer bag on trend at my #etsyshop, Pop of Color Bags.