Huh, a "Quarterly Update". Sounds a bit ominous doesn't it? Not to worry, things are going well at Briarhill Woodcraft. I have been busy making new items as I promised in my last blog posting. Most of them have not made it to this webpage or my Etsy site yet because I wanted to avoid issues with duplicate listings as they are part of my craft show and local gift shop inventory. I will add a few items over the next few weeks as I finish them.
So what else is new? Well, there are new projects like end grain cutting boards and small boxes with inlay in the works. These items have allowed me to expand my skills and of course add a few new tools. Note, I am told that one can never have enough tools. I must admit that I have an addiction to tools. But, I digress; back to the new projects. I have received positive feedback on these projects and look forward to developing them more fully in the future. One area that continues to challenge me is carving. Several folks have asked if I dabble in that arena to which I respond "not with great success". But, I am undaunted and will push forward with my carving. Requests for commission projects are starting to come my way as a result of word-of-mouth support from family and friends, my efforts on Facebook and participation in the Kennett Square Farmer's Market First Friday events. So far I have completed three of them and have started researching three more. I am excited about this side of my woodworking because it has provided projects that I would not have considered on my own. So, thanks to all of you that have entrusted me to create something of value for you. Here's a little news flash for you. I was recently asked to join the PA and Chester County Craft Guilds. I admit that the thought had not crossed my mind. But, after speaking with two of their representatives, I am happy to announce that I have joined both organizations and look forward to learning even more from the Juried craftspeople. Hopefully, some day in the future, I too may say that I am a Juried craftsman. That would be truly awesome. On a similar topic, I think you will find the artwork of a fellow artisan of great interest. His talent is unbounded. Please highlight and then right click on the following link and favorite his work. https://www.etsy.com/shop/MaebugStudios?ref=search_shop_redirect As always, feel free to send a note to let me know how you are doing. Lastly, I hope your summer is going well, your travels are filled with adventure and you return home safely.
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A friend recently suggested that I include a Blog page on my website. Hmmm, write a Blog? A new endeavor, possibly similar to jotting down a note to a friend? Where to start? How about with a progress update? That works.
It has been four months since I officially opened the doors to Briarhill Woodcraft for business. First and foremost, thank you to all the folks that have visited my site and either purchased items or given me valuable feedback. Secondly, my efforts to organize the shop, develop a business plan, research the various web hosting/design companies as well as the e-commerce rules of engagement, and build the first, and second, websites spanned all of 2016. It was a year chocked full of activity to build inventory for the 1Q17 Grand Opening. This year has been no different as I continue to build projects and take time to learn about SEO (note:I'm fine, its not a disease). I have also begun to partner with local shops to offer my items which has been fun as I get to know and enjoy conversations with some great folks. So what's new for the 2Q17 period? How about new items, some of them rustic in nature and others that will permit me to develop a few new skills. And, of course, more than a few rounds of golf (note:the PGA pro's need not worry about me). I would like to hear from the people that are proud owners of my items. Are you enjoying the items you have from my shop? Please leave me a post with any comments or potential new product ideas. Until then, be well and safe travels. Cheers Bill |
AuthorBill Bowman, active owner and passionate artisan ArchivesCategories |