Knotty Notions

When I first came across today's featured shop, the first thing that struck me was the clever name: Knotty Notions.  Entering the shop, it's immediately evident that the cleverness weaves its way into each and every creation.  Owner Debbie specializes in wood burned wedding gifts, signs and other natural products, which are beautifully customized for each customer.  With great prices and unique offerings, this shop is definitely one not to miss.

Customized weddng table decoration. Wooden hearts, burned and rustic

CM: Tell us a bit about yourself...
KN: My name is Debbie and I'm a 39 year old stay at home mom of 3 kids, and 1 who is out on her own. My background is acting, I have a BA in Drama, but found my passion wasn't there anymore. I run a day home a few days a week and on the other days I run my Etsy store. I've found it to be the perfect combination of being at home with my young children and my teenager and doing something creative that gives me an outlet. My husband shakes his head every day at what I manage to juggle.

Rustic bird house, yellow and blue. Feed the birds in style

CM: When and how did you start working with wood? Did someone teach you?
KN: My husband was the one who suggested wood burning, and my oldest daughter who is in University just happened to have a wood burner. She brought it over and told me to play around with it. I fell in love. The smell, the look, it's really addictive. I am 100% self taught.

Rustic Weddding Keepsake box or Ring Bearer Box

CM: How long does it take you to make a piece to sell? What's the process like? Your workspace?
KN: I wish I was better at drawing, but I'm not. So I look up an image I want to burn. I first sketch, then I burn it, customize it and finally stain it.

It probably takes me 1-2 hours per piece from beginning to end.

The process, what process!! I do bits and pieces when I can in between caring for my children. I sketch when they are awake and we have "arts and crafts time" and I burn when they are asleep, simply for the safety factor.

My workspace is my kitchen counter. Right beside my coffee pot!

Rustic Wedding Wine Box. Personalized with your names or initials

CM: What's the best thing about selling on Etsy? The most challenging?
KN: The best thing about selling on Etsy is that I can do it from the comfort of my home, with my 2 year old on my lap if need be. The toughest is that it feels a bit like High School and I'm the shy kid in the corner and not one of the popular kids. It's very hard to not get lost among the big and popular shops.

Wedding Wish box. Personalized for the Bride and Groom. Something blue

CM: What's your favorite item from your own shop right now?
KN: I loved how my blue bird wish box turned out. It's delicate and romantic.

Humorous wood burned sign. Phyllis Diller quote. Comes with a chain ready to hang

CM: Do you have a favorite shop or item on Etsy? If so, which one(s)?
KN: I have a couple favorite items. This one is a vintage love letter in a pendant.
Just simple and stunning.

And this shop is amazing. Such creativity!!

Thanks so much, Debbie!!