When I began MissNissCraftworks a little over a year ago, I was looking for a way to create a living, have the freedom of being my own boss, and most importantly feed my creativity. I found it hard to be truly happy with the thought of someone else lying out goals I would need to make and the bureaucracy that goes along with working in an overly communal workplace. Some may think I made my decision to get out too quickly, but I'd have to disagree!
Since that moment of clarity, I've had another. This time it has to do directly with MissNissCraftworks. Over the past year I've quickly honed my skills in knitting, crochet, and sewing. I've slowly begun developing an inventory of items that I want to define MissNissCraftworks, a process that I'm sure will be eternal. I read patterns, I read my peers' blogs, I read books, I surf the web for fresh ideas, I look to nature for inspiration, and I listen and watch to understand the interests of my fashion forward friends and family. I work hard. What has now been plaguing my mind over the last few weeks is the question, "Why should anyone want to purchase and order from ME?' I mean, come on, there is a plethora of items in the stores that you could easily go to to meet your needs. Not having to become a member of Etsy, no reason to consult me for a special request, no reason to give me feedback... you'd have anonymity doing things that way. You could shop sales. Get things cheap, like I do when I rarely shop in a clothing store. Sounds pretty great, right? Truth is it's NOT. There are a few main reasons to why shopping small and/or local is way better. 1. Location of Creation -- Where your goods are made should play a huge importance in what you buy. A majority of clothing items are made overseas. It's rare to find a garment or textile made right here in America. Why? Because we outsource more than what's good for us. Sure, those people in other countries need to have a living, too. But they're being paid slave wages, in unfit working conditions, mass producing something as cheaply as possibly. Did you get that last part? It'll lead us to our next point. Why would you want to support that with your purchasing power? Choosing a small business, that does not mass produce and is located in your community, state, or country will help those economies that affect you. It's important to help your neighbor and the more local the neighbor the better. MissNissCraftworks is owned solely by me, all items are made only by me, and I make my living off of selling those items. Helping me provide you with quality, handmade items helps a smaller economy. 2. Quality -- I'm for saving money, too. The thing is, if you want a well made item you need to look for it. If you know the mass produced items aren't made up your standard chances are they'll wear out faster. Shopping small businesses, in most cases, will give you the quality you deserve. Items made for MissNissCraftworks, for example, are carefully crafted and I ALWAYS make sure the items are of the highest quality. I take great pride in my work and you should count on items that please when purchasing from me. 3. Personalization -- There are way too many things out there that are 'a dime a dozen.' I should rephrase that. There are way too many things out there that are 'a dime a dozen' and those are the items that get all the commercial attention. It doesn't mean that's what you have to buy. With small businesses you get unique items. A lot are even one of a kinds! Be the black sheep and purchase something that no one else has or at the very least, very few. I work very hard to develop items that are unlike the others found on Etsy and especially not found in the stores! Sure some may seem similar, but they're always in MissNissCraftworks' style. I even do special orders for items that are not found in my shop. I've done many lovely orders that I will not offer in shop. All it takes is a quick message and my creative mind will most likely conceive something even better than what you had anticipated. 4. Service -- Small businesses work hard to give you the service you require. We're not like the large business that can absorb costs if a few people aren't happy with their products. A small business depends on good communication with a consumer and you are sure to get it! I love my customers. I may not know you and you may not know me, but that does not mean I should offer you anything inferior. I do my very best to keep lines of communication open with my my customers in a punctual manner. I offer quick, tracked shipping. I'll let you know if your order will take anymore time, but most are ready to go in shop! Not to be too corny, but with MissNissCraftworks I am gladly at your service. I won't sell you short of a positive experience. I am sure there will be more reasons I could add as I continue to digest this idea. Small business, MY small business, is important. You need to know that. When you purchase with MissNissCraftworks, you help me. I am not a cooperation, just an enthusiastic girl who wants to offer the world beauty, comfort, and style through knits, crochets, sewn items, and whatever else I create!
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My name is Annissa, owner of MissNissDesigns. I am a knitter, crocheter, sewer, and all around crafty lady. Archives
April 2023
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