I'm Too Busy

I had a very sudden realisation the other night - I'm too busy right now.
I'm trying to do too much with my time and I'm getting frustrated.

Let me explain a little more specifically. I realised that trying to make and sell handmade things like crochet blankets and beanies was taking up far too much of my time for little reward. I have been crocheting and knitting for a very long time and get so many compliments on the things I make. I've sold things here and there through my Etsy store and in person.

So many people tell me "you should sell your stuff" and I seriously try to but very few people are actually interested in buying it. I believe the price of handmade items is more than what people are expecting and don't realise this when I make things.

 The following process takes place when I make an item:

- find a pattern (not every time but a lot of the time)
- sometimes I have to purchase a pattern - can be anwhere from $3 to $10
- buy materials for item by searching craft shops or ordering online
- make item - can take several hours/days/weeks even
- finish off item by sewing in ends/attaching pieces etc.
- photographing item in good lighting (might have to wait for good weather/light conditions)
- edit photographs
- list item online, create description etc.
- promote item on social media (continuously!)
- promote sales or coupon codes
- promote name on social media to attract potential followers and potential buyers

This process happens for every single item I make. It takes up a lot of time and I don't feel the interest I get in person follows through with purchases. I don't want to be bitter about this because I don't make things to make much money - I have compared my prices to others and mine are priced quite affordably. I don't charge an hourly rate to make or photograph each item, edit these photo's and list the item online. That would be far to expensive and I don't know anyone who'd pay $200 for a beanie!

So I decided I no longer want to make things to try and sell. I'm only going to make things for myself, for my family, for gifts and maybe the odd custom make for friends.
I already feel good about this decision. I will be saving money because I won't be buying materials that I hope to turn into profit eventually. I won't have to find places to store finished items waiting to be sold and my wardrobe will be unique and one-of-a-kind because no one else will have the same item. And I won't feel bitter or frustrated about not selling an item.

I'm one step closer to this years goal of being Less Busy!

Photos are all things I have made over the last couple of years.
You can still follow my crafting instagram account @chunkystitches and my Etsy store is ChunkyStitchesAU - I may still have things for sale when you are reading this.

xx Emily