Featured Artist Spotlight: Bettys Original knits

My eighth featured artist is Betty of Bettysoriginalknits I met her in the Follow these Easy Steps to make more sales... thread in the Etsy Forums. Betty is a very talented artist who knits beautiful and unique items...




Start off by telling us about yourself...

I am a 29 year old stay at home mom and housewife. I live in Jerome, Idaho with my husband, son, 2 cats, and way too much yarn.


When did you start your art/craft and how did you get into it?

My little sister taught me how to knit about 3 years ago. I was pregnant with my son at the time, and I wanted to make baby things for him. By the time I got the hang of it, my son had been born and I didn't have time to even think straight. I actually forgot I knew how to knit until that Christmas when my sister bought me some knitting needles, yarn, and a pattern book. I have been knitting ever since. I began designing my own knits about 6 months after that.


Where do you get your inspiration for your creations?

I am inspired by fashion and nature mostly. A lot of my ideas come to me in dreams.


Do you work at your art/craft full time or do
you have another job?

My full time job is taking care of my son, cooking, cleaning, and trying to keep my husband happy. Whatever time I have left is spent knitting and designing.


If you could start over with your business is there anything you would do differently?

No, I am just getting started with my business. I like to think of it as a work in progress; every day is a learning experience.


Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Why?

I hope to have another child by then. It is my dream to be successfully selling my handmade items, so I can continue to work from home and be there for my children. Other than that I try not to look too far ahead. I like to let God lead me where he may.


Who do you admire (artist or otherwise)? Why?

I admire my husband for being so supportive of my creative endeavors. And for working such long hours at his job so I can stay home and raise our son.


What tips would you have for someone that is
just starting out?

I would tell anyone just starting out to be patient and not get discouraged. It takes a long time to get your name out there. Just keep creating, promote whenever you can, and hang in there.


Be sure to check out her Etsy shop...

Etsy Buy Handmade bettysoriginalknits