It seems that handmade toys with simple yet inspiring materials are popping up everywhere and kids are responding. Sometimes it is the simple toys that make kids’ imaginations sprout. Then, it’s no wonder that Jill Chuckas’ creation – Crafty Baby – is growing more and more popular. Crafty Baby produces handcrafted items like nap sacks, clutch balls, changing pads and bibs that your babies or toddlers would love, but they also make great gifts. Jill is an example of a Mom entrepreneur with a home-based and home-focused business. Here’s her story.
What inspired you to start Crafty Baby?
Well, I was pregnant. I have always loved sewing and, with a baby on the way, I began to create things I wanted to use with my little ones.
What was it like in the beginning?
It was a very organic process. I started very slow – making the blanket pillow, clutch balls and Christmas stockings to sell at very small church craft fairs. I would do maybe 2 a year. Little by little, I increased my number of shows, and the quality of the shows I would do. Then, after about 6 years, I decided to launch into the wholesale market and take my business into the “big time”.
How did your previous experience help you in the process?
My previous experience is a social worker. I hold a Masters in Social Work and worked for 10 years in the public school system. I also have experience working in county social service agencies. Although this is not necessarily a related field, it helped me initially (and continues to) in terms of engaging and interacting with the children who come into my booth at events. In addition, the issues with current legislation (CPSIA) have forced me to utilize many of the communication and writing skills that I learned as a social worker.
Did you ever consider designing clothes for kids?
I did, but honestly, I hate figuring out sizes. I did not like the idea of creating multiple sizes of the same design, knowing which sizes I might need and being sure that they would fit properly.
How much is your family involved in the work process?
It varies. My eldest son has always been involved in picking out fabrics. He has a fabulous eye for color and design. When I am in doubt, I go to him. He is also old enough now (almost 11) that he wants to come to shows with me and help sell product. The younger 2 are sometimes found taking pins out of things I have finished sewing, or stuffing mailers. And, of course, they are always my product testers!
Do you have a set schedule or a flexible one? How do you decide when to work?
My schedule is fairly flexible. I have 3 children, and their schedule often dictates when I can work. For the most part, I work every evening after my husband gets home from work until about 10 or so at night. And, I work most week-ends, either in my studio sewing, or at an event. Of course, I also work while the kids are in school – usually getting in about 4 hours during the day time. So, roughly a 40-50 hour week, each week.
Did you ever encounter obstacles as an entrepreneur that almost made you quit? What kept you going?
Yes, I seriously thought about closing up shop upon learning about the devastation that the CPSIA could have on my business. It took about a week, but I found a group that represented who I was, joined, and took on a leadership role. There really is power in numbers and it helped tremendously to have a supportive group to work with.
What are the biggest lessons you’ve learned from being a business owner?
There are constant challenges in running a business. My mind is always racing with ideas on how to improve my line, increase production (I do make almost everything myself after all), build my brand, increase sales, etc. One of the hardest things is balancing all of this – and letting go of things, allowing others to help or hire folks to do something. Not sure if I have completely learned this yet, but it is important to give myself a break and recognize that I can’t do everything all the time.
How difficult is the legislative process as it applies to your work?
Well, let me count the ways. The problems with the CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act) for me are not the safety regulations it puts in place. My product line is well below the 300 parts per million of lead (generally my line is under 5 parts per million). The issue for me, and thousands of other small batch manufacturers, is the certification process. The law treats all manufacturers the same, so I have to go through the same process as, say Mattel. That just doesn’t make sense. I have been working with the Handmade Toy Alliance (www.handmadetoyalliance.org) to both amend the law and encourage the Consumer Product Safety Commission to implement common sense rulings to give companies like mine a break with the certification process.
What are your best channels of distribution?
That varies. I sell in multiple markets. On the internet, to brick and mortar retail locations, to a couple of catalogs and direct to the public at craft fairs. This year, my best market was direct to the public at craft fairs, but this hasn’t always been the case.
Do you find that classic toys – simple wood and fabric toys – are making a big comeback now?
Absolutely – parents are looking for items for their children that encourage their imagination and that are well made.
How do you measure success of Crafty Baby?
By the smiles on the faces of the children who use my products and the kind words that my customers share with me.
What are your plans for the future of Crafty Baby?
I would love to open up a stitchery in my home town. I would a small store front (maybe 100 square feet), selling my product line and a handful of my fellow hand crafters children’s products. The majority of the space, though, would encompass 4 or more sewing machines, crafting my products and employing other moms.
If I asked your kids, what kind of Mom would they say you are?
Kind of strict, but mostly nice. A hard worker and someone who does not give up easily.
What advice would you give to moms who want to start their own business?
Be passionate and persistent. A business is like having another child. There is planning involved and things don’t always go how you would like or expect. One must love what they do and be in it for the long haul!
You can find more information on Crafty Baby and shop for products at craftybaby.com.
