Craft to Career

In this candid and heartfelt episode, host Elizabeth Chappell opens up about her personal journey to becoming both a fabric designer and a published author in the quilting industry. Elizabeth takes you behind the scenes of her creative career, sharing the ups, downs, and everything in between as she navigated the world of quilting and design. From her initial interest in quilting to the moment she decided to pursue a career in the quilting industry, Elizabeth discusses the challenges and triumphs that have shaped her journey. She goes into detail about the process of becoming a fabric designer, the steps she took to get her designs into the world, and how she made her dream of publishing her own books a reality. Whether you're a fellow quilter looking to break into the industry, an aspiring author, or simply someone who enjoys hearing the stories of successful entrepreneurs, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and practical advice. Elizabeth's vulnerability and honesty will resonate with anyone looking to pursue their creative passions while building a business. Key Takeaways: Starting the Journey: Hear how Elizabeth's passion for quilting turned into a desire to build a career in the quilting industry. Becoming a Fabric Designer: Learn the steps Elizabeth took to create her own fabric line and what it took to bring her designs to life. Publishing a Book: Elizabeth shares how she navigated the world of publishing and became an author in the quilting space. Personal Reflections: Get an inside look at the challenges Elizabeth faced and how she overcame them to build her dream career. This episode is for anyone dreaming of turning their creative passion into a career, and Elizabeth's story will inspire you to take the next step in your own journey! SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

Running a successful online shop, especially in a creative niche like quilting, requires a mix of passion, strategy, and marketing savvy. In this episode, Victoria of Midlife Quilter shares her journey from fabric lover to shop owner and offers insights on how to succeed in the competitive world of online fabric retail. Victoria dives into her experience of starting and growing her online fabric store and reveals one of her most effective marketing strategies that she believes every fabric shop owner should adopt. If you're thinking about opening an online store or are already running one, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you increase sales, build customer loyalty, and stand out in a crowded market. Key Takeaways: Getting Started: Hear how Victoria took the leap into owning a fabric shop and how you can, too. Marketing Success: Discover the unique marketing idea Victoria believes all fabric shop owners should embrace to grow their audience. Customer Engagement: Learn strategies to keep your customers coming back and turning your online store into a destination for quilting enthusiasts. Business Mindset: How Victoria's approach to running her shop aligns with her values and how you can apply similar principles to your own business. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to dive into the world of online retail, especially in the creative space. Listen in for inspiration and actionable strategies to help your online shop thrive! SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

Branding plays a crucial role in defining your business identity and attracting the right audience. This week, Sarah Ann Design, a branding and website expert for creative entrepreneurs, shares her insights on how to successfully define your brand and ensure it speaks to your ideal customers. In this episode, Sarah explains the essential elements of effective branding, from choosing the right colors and fonts to building a website that resonates with your target market. Whether you're just starting out or looking to rebrand, this conversation is packed with actionable tips to help you create a brand that stands out. Key Takeaways: Defining Your Brand: Learn the importance of a cohesive brand identity that reflects your business values and personality. Attracting Your Ideal Audience: Discover strategies for tailoring your brand messaging to speak directly to the customers you want to attract. Website Design Tips: How to create a user-friendly website that complements your brand and turns visitors into loyal clients. Visual Consistency: The power of consistency in your design elements, from logos to social media, and how it helps build brand recognition. This episode is perfect for creative entrepreneurs who are looking to strengthen their branding, improve their website, and connect more deeply with their target audience. Tune in to gain the knowledge you need to elevate your business and make a lasting impression! SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

Looking to grow your business on Instagram and have more success with Reels? Jessica Rose of QuiltD Studios is here to share her insights! In this episode, Jessica reveals how she has used Instagram Reels to connect with her audience and expand her reach as a creative entrepreneur. Instagram Reels can be a game-changer for your business, and Jessica explains the best practices for using them to their full potential. Whether you're looking to create more engaging content, reach a wider audience, or drive more sales, you'll learn practical tips and strategies to help you succeed. Key Takeaways: How to leverage Reels: Jessica shares her approach to using Instagram Reels effectively to capture attention and grow your audience. Engagement strategies: Learn how to create content that resonates with your followers and encourages engagement. Tips for beginners: If you're new to Reels, Jessica breaks down simple steps to get started and boost your visibility. Business growth with Instagram: How Reels can be used not just for marketing but as a tool to directly impact your business growth. If you're ready to take your Instagram presence to the next level, this episode is full of actionable insights to help you grow and thrive. Tune in to hear how Jessica Rose can help your business succeed with Instagram Reels! SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

Sometimes, putting yourself and your business out there can ruffle a few feathers—and that's perfectly okay. In fact, it might be a sign you're on the right track! In this episode, we dive into the concept of criticism, especially when it comes from "nay-sayers" or people who feel threatened by your success. Criticism can sting, but it's also an opportunity. Learn how to handle the negative feedback with grace, and more importantly, how to use it as fuel to propel you forward. Being bold and visible in your business often means you're stepping into uncharted waters, and not everyone will agree with your approach. But that's not only okay—it's a sign of growth. Key Takeaways: Criticism as a sign of progress: Understand how negative feedback often accompanies success and visibility. Turning negativity into motivation: Learn how to use criticism as a tool to motivate you rather than hinder you. Staying true to your vision: How to stay grounded in your mission and not let critics sway your path. Dealing with "nay-sayers": The best ways to manage and rise above people who try to bring you down. Don't let criticism stop you from moving forward. Instead, use it as a springboard to grow and achieve even greater success! SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

Are you considering Pinterest for your business but aren't sure how to leverage it effectively? Wondering if it's really worth your time and effort? In this episode, Shereece Spain shares her expert insights on how Pinterest can become a powerhouse for sales and growth in your business. Shereece walks us through the reasons why Pinterest should be on your radar, whether you're looking to increase visibility, drive traffic, or boost sales. With her expertise, she explains how Pinterest differs from other platforms and why it's particularly valuable for businesses like yours. She also discusses the option of hiring help to manage Pinterest marketing, giving you a clear idea of when and why it might make sense to bring in a pro. If you've been hesitant about Pinterest or don't have the time or expertise to manage it yourself, this episode will provide the clarity you need to make an informed decision. Plus, Shereece outlines how hiring an expert can help you unlock Pinterest's full potential, saving you time and boosting your business results. Key Takeaways: Why Pinterest matters for your business: Learn how Pinterest can be a game-changer for driving sales, traffic, and visibility. How Pinterest works differently: Understand the unique features of Pinterest and how they can align with your business goals. When to hire help: Shereece explains why outsourcing your Pinterest management can be a wise investment and how it can save you time and energy. Tips for maximizing Pinterest success: Learn actionable strategies for turning Pinterest into a revenue-generating tool. Whether you're just starting out or ready to take your Pinterest strategy to the next level, this episode will help you understand how to use this platform to your advantage, and when to bring in a pro to handle it for you! SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

Building a business is a challenging yet rewarding experience, and having the right kind of support can make all the difference. In this episode, we discuss the importance of surrounding yourself with quilting friends who share similar interests and goals. These friendships are not just about having fun and enjoying the craft; they play a crucial role in supporting your entrepreneurial adventure. We dive into how your quilting community can uplift you, provide advice, share valuable business tips, and help keep you motivated when times get tough. Whether it's brainstorming new ideas, offering constructive feedback, or simply being there for a chat, having a circle of like-minded friends can give you the confidence and strength to keep pushing forward in your creative business. Key Takeaways: The role of community: How being surrounded by quilting friends with similar goals can provide emotional and professional support. Accountability: How friends can help you stay on track with your business goals and remind you of your potential. Sharing knowledge and growth: Learn how swapping ideas and strategies can lead to new opportunities for both your business and personal growth. The value of networking: Why building a network with those who understand your creative journey is essential for long-term success. If you're feeling alone in your entrepreneurial journey, this episode will show you why creating or joining a supportive group of quilting friends can make all the difference. Let's dive in and explore how these relationships can truly elevate your business and your life! SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

If you're wondering whether selling on Etsy is a good fit for your business, look no further than this episode with Lauren Keplinger. Lauren is an Etsy shop owner who has turned her shop into a successful business, and now she helps others do the same through coaching. In this episode, Lauren shares her experience and expertise on how Etsy can be a powerful platform for growing your business, but also what it takes to succeed. She covers the benefits of Etsy, the challenges sellers face, and how to optimize your shop for visibility and sales. In this episode, you'll learn: Etsy basics: Why Etsy can be a great platform for creatives looking to sell their products online. Shop optimization: Practical tips on how to make your shop stand out and drive traffic to your listings. Common pitfalls: The challenges that come with selling on Etsy and how to avoid them. Coaching advice: How Lauren coaches Etsy sellers to build a meaningful and sustainable income through the platform. Whether you're new to Etsy or thinking about opening your own shop, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice for building a successful Etsy business. Learn from Lauren Keplinger and discover if Etsy is the right choice for you and your products! SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

Running a business while dealing with health challenges can feel overwhelming, but it is possible to succeed with the right strategies in place. In this episode, podcast host Elizabeth Chappell speaks with two inspiring entrepreneurs—Belle of Seams So Me and Alexa of The Wannabe Grandma—who share their personal journeys of managing their health while growing and running successful businesses. Belle and Alexa open up about the daily realities of balancing health issues with entrepreneurship. They discuss the adjustments they've made to maintain productivity, stay motivated, and ensure their businesses thrive despite personal challenges. Their stories offer encouragement for anyone facing similar struggles and show that with the right mindset and support, you can overcome obstacles and keep moving forward. In this episode, you'll learn: Balancing work and health: Discover how Belle and Alexa manage to stay productive and focused while navigating their health challenges. Adapting your business: Learn practical tips on adjusting your work routine to accommodate health needs without compromising your business's success. The importance of support: Find out how both guests leaned on community and resources to help them manage their businesses while taking care of themselves. Mindset matters: Hear about the mindset shifts that helped them stay resilient through tough times. Whether you're managing a health issue or just looking for more ways to adapt your business to better suit your lifestyle, this episode is packed with valuable insights and real-life examples of how to thrive, no matter what you're facing. SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

Thinking about attending QuiltCon or Quilt Market but not sure which one is right for you? Or are you wondering whether it's worth it to be a vendor at these major quilting events? In this episode, I dive into everything you need to know about both events to help you decide where your time and money are best spent. Whether you're attending as a guest or considering being a vendor, I share practical tips on what to have prepared before exhibiting, what you should expect, and how to get the most out of your experience at these events. You'll hear about successful booth setups, how to engage with attendees, and what makes a booth stand out. In this episode, you'll learn: QuiltCon vs. Quilt Market: Key differences between these two quilting events, and who should attend each. What to prepare before being a vendor: The essential steps to take to ensure your booth stands out and attracts customers. Tips for successful booth setups: Learn what works in a booth and what doesn't from firsthand experiences. How to maximize your visit as a guest: Whether you're there to network, learn, or shop, I share tips on how to make the most of these events. Should you exhibit or attend? Helpful advice on making the decision that will benefit your business and goals. If you're considering attending or exhibiting at QuiltCon or Quilt Market, this episode will help you make an informed decision. Whether you're an aspiring vendor or looking to make connections as a guest, I've got the insights to guide you through these major quilting events. SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

Misty Doan, a designer and teacher at Missouri Star Quilt Co., shares the incredible story behind her family's journey from humble beginnings to building one of the largest quilting businesses in the world. Missouri Star has become a beloved brand in the quilting community, offering supplies, tutorials, and inspiration to quilters everywhere. In this episode, Misty takes us through her personal journey, the challenges they've faced, and how they have turned their passion for quilting into a thriving business that serves people worldwide. Misty's insights into the quilting industry and entrepreneurial life offer valuable advice for anyone looking to start or grow a creative business. She talks about the importance of creativity, perseverance, and the value of serving the quilting community with passion. Whether you're a quilter or entrepreneur, Misty's journey will inspire you to pursue your own dreams and to make a lasting impact in your industry. In this episode, you'll learn: The origin story of Missouri Star Quilt Co.: Misty shares how her family started with a small idea and turned it into a global business. Key principles for building a successful business: Misty discusses what has helped them overcome challenges and grow a thriving business. Creative advice for quilters and business owners: Gain insights on how to balance creativity and business to create a lasting impact. How to inspire and serve your community: Learn the importance of community-building in business success. What it takes to scale a creative business: Misty talks about the practical steps Missouri Star took to grow their business and reach more people. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the creative industry looking for inspiration, actionable advice, and a behind-the-scenes look at how a family business turned into a quilting empire. Don't miss out on Misty's uplifting and motivational story! SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

Kristy Yoder, the Founder and CEO of Smart VAs and host of The Master Delegator podcast, joins us to share her expertise on hiring and managing virtual assistants. Kristy is passionate about helping business owners reduce their stress and increase their productivity by outsourcing tasks to virtual assistants (VAs). If you're struggling to keep up with all the tasks on your to-do list or feel overwhelmed by the demands of running your business, Kristy's insights could be the game changer you need. In this episode, Kristy explains how hiring a VA can help you delegate tasks efficiently, focus on growing your business, and regain valuable time. Whether you're a solopreneur or an established business owner, Kristy's advice will help you understand the ins and outs of hiring virtual assistants and how they can elevate your business to the next level. In this episode, you'll learn: Why hiring a VA is a smart business move: Kristy explains the value of outsourcing tasks to free up your time for higher-priority activities. How to hire a virtual assistant: Learn how to find, hire, and onboard a VA, plus tips on creating a seamless working relationship. The types of tasks to delegate: Kristy shares the common tasks that entrepreneurs should consider outsourcing to a virtual assistant. Building a team of virtual assistants: Discover how Kristy scaled her business by building a team of VAs and how you can do the same. Time and stress management: How delegating can help you reduce burnout and regain focus on what truly matters in your business. This episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you take control of your business, save time, and reduce stress. If you're ready to learn how a virtual assistant can make your business more successful, this episode is a must-listen! SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

Kiley Ferons, the founder of Modish Quilter, shares her inspiring journey from taking Quilters Candy's Quilt Pattern Writing Course to launching her very own quilting magazine. In this episode, Kiley opens up about the creative process, challenges, and breakthroughs she experienced along the way as she turned her passion into a thriving business. Kiley's new magazine is a fresh take on traditional quilting publications, offering something unique to quilters who crave inspiration and practical resources. Learn how she used the skills she gained in the Quilt Pattern Writing Course to propel her business forward and how she's carving out a space in the competitive quilting industry. In this episode, you'll discover: Kiley's entrepreneurial journey: How taking a course led her to start Modish Quilter magazine and the steps she took to turn her vision into a reality. What makes her magazine different: The unique features of Kiley's publication that set it apart from traditional quilting magazines. Overcoming the challenges of starting a new business: Kiley shares the lessons she learned while navigating the ups and downs of launching a new venture. The importance of community and networking: How Kiley built her business by connecting with other quilters and tapping into the resources around her. How the Quilt Pattern Writing Course helped: The skills Kiley gained from the course and how they played a pivotal role in her business success. Whether you dream of starting a magazine, growing your creative business, or simply want to be inspired by Kiley's success, this episode is filled with valuable insights that will help you take your own business to the next level. SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

Mindy Young, the creative mind behind Indy Bloom Designs, shares her inspirational journey from a watercolor artist to a successful entrepreneur. In this episode, Mindy reveals how she transformed her passion for art into a profitable business, creating stunning surface pattern designs that are now featured on products worldwide. If you've ever wondered how to turn your creative talent into a business, Mindy's story is full of practical advice and motivational insights. Learn how she overcame challenges, found her niche, and grew her brand into a successful venture. In this episode, you'll learn: The journey of a watercolor artist turned business owner: How Mindy started in art and transitioned into the world of surface pattern design. Turning passion into profit: Strategies for monetizing your creative work and building a business around your art. Overcoming entrepreneurial challenges: Mindy shares lessons learned and the steps she took to navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Insights on scaling a creative business: How Mindy grew her brand, expanded her offerings, and continues to thrive in a competitive market. Finding your niche and brand: The importance of discovering what makes your art unique and how to position it in the market. Whether you're an artist, designer, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is filled with actionable advice to help you grow your creative business. SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

Building a strong brand isn't just about having great products—it's also about creating a visual identity that resonates with your audience. In this episode, website designer Leila Radar shares her expertise on how to effectively use colors, fonts, and design elements to strengthen your brand and attract your ideal customers. Leila discusses the key aspects of website design that can help grow your business, including how to create a cohesive and visually appealing online presence. She offers insights on why every element, from typography to color palettes, plays a crucial role in brand perception. If you've ever wondered how to make your website more than just a digital storefront, this episode is for you! Tune in to learn actionable tips that you can apply to your own website design and brand strategy to stand out and grow your business with purpose. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your existing site, Leila's advice will guide you toward a more professional, polished online presence. SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

Doug Leko, a long-time quilter and self-published author, shares his wealth of experience on how to successfully self-publish books in the quilting world. From the early days of his quilting journey to now being a sought-after designer, Doug offers expert advice on navigating the world of self-publishing, including the steps, challenges, and rewards involved. Doug started designing quilt patterns as a teenager and has built a successful business around his designs, including publishing his own books. In this episode, he walks us through how he took his passion for quilting and turned it into a career through self-publishing. Whether you are interested in creating your own book or simply want to learn more about the self-publishing process, Doug's journey provides invaluable insights into what it takes to succeed. In this episode, you'll learn: Doug's self-publishing journey: Discover how Doug went from a young quilter to a full-fledged author in the quilting space. The book publishing process: Learn the key steps to take when self-publishing a book, from idea to design to final product. Marketing and distribution tips: Doug shares how to get your book into the hands of your readers and market it effectively. Overcoming common challenges: Gain insight into what hurdles Doug faced in his publishing journey and how he overcame them. Doug's passion for quilting and self-publishing is evident in every aspect of his business. This episode will give you a solid foundation for pursuing your own self-publishing dream, whether for books or other creative projects, and show you that it's possible to make a successful career doing what you love. SHOW NOTES: https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

What do you do when you are in a rut? Maybe you are feeling fatigued, have lost your motivation or are unsure if you have what it takes. Don't worry- it happens! In this episode, Elizabeth shares 7 ways that can help you refocus and find success in your life and in your business, so you can get back in the game!

Mary Davis of Mary Go Rounds Quilts asks great questions about memberships, member engagement, growing your email list, etc on a Coaching Call with Elizabeth Chappell. If you are wondering what a coaching session is like, join in and learn with us on this week's Craft to Career Podcast.

On the podcast this week, How He Turned Quilting Into a Career with Giucy Giuce, Giuseppe shares his journey into the quilting world. Join in and hear his inspiring story and insights in the world of quilting and design!

Wondering how your business can be better heard and seen? Maybe you have followers but are unsure how to attract buyers? On this episode, Use these Secrets from Business Coach Kim Jumenez, you'll hear insightful information you can implement to help your business grow!

Best Tips for Business Success, with Elizabeth Chappell, will help you identify areas of your business that you can focus on to ensure you are maximizing your potential for growth and success. They may be more simple than you think! Be sure to listen to this weeks podcast- you won't want to miss these tips!

Starting a new creative business and need some inspiration? Meet quilter, pattern designer and teacher- Emily of Homemade Emily Jane. Learn specific ways Emily has tailored her business to grow.

Learn how Linli has had success in just a couple of years with her online fabric shop. From selecting fabrics, how she got here, and even the inspiration for her store name, you will get tips that can help you with your own online shop selling fabric or anything else!

Wondering about your finances? How do you know what to pay for taxes? What can you write off? How do you keep track off your money and know how much you're making? Guest Serena Shoup, a CPA who works with business owners, is here to answer all your questions. Grab a pencil and paper to take notes, your finances are about to get in order!

Have you heard the word AFFILIATE and wonder what it is, and how you can become one? In this episode, guest Carolina Moore shares different ways you can earn money by being an affiliate for brands you love. Learn this easy way to bring in extra income.

One of the best ways to bring a steady income is no secret. Look at Netflix, Apple Music, and SO MUCH MORE. Memberships are a great way to bring in a steady income, and on this episode, I will share how to start your own.

Are you thinking of hiring someone to help you with your business? Do you wonder if it's the right time, or how to find someone? How do you train them, and figure out how to pay them? Hear how I have gone about this and get tips on how and when to hire help.

Are you ready to sell your product? Want to know my timeline and tips for launching your product with success? Learn what to do, when to do it, and a few tips to make your launch your most successful one yet!

Join in on a coaching call with Jenni of Nollie + Bean, a creative quilter and pattern writer. Jenni reached out to Elizabeth, of Quilters Candy, after listening to several Craft to Career Podcasts. She wanted to share her success after implementing some of what she had learned. Elizabeth discusses with Jenni the details of what she discovered and how those things improved her business. She then takes on some new challenges from Elizabeth to help her further her business growth even that much more!

There comes a point for business owners when you not only want to get help to grow your business, but you NEED to get help. Guest Abby Combs talks about what her company, E Studios Marketing offers for small businesses. Hand over your social media content to a specialist who can post your content and engage with your audience for you. Free up time and mental space to focus on your product. Abby shares when to hire someone, what they can help with, and how this helps your business grow.

Every business owner needs to know how to speak in front of people. You might be doing a class, presentation, or even just an Instagram Live. Either way, knowing how to capture your audience is key! Learn from speaking coach Heather Sager on how to improve your public speaking.

Christopher went from working in NYC with the GAP to moving to Utah for Riley Blake Designs. Learn how he went from being a quilting blogger on the side to making quilting his full time career.

Recently Facebook and Instagram shut down for the day. It got us thinking: How can we have a healthy business that doesn't depend on these platforms? There are some great ways to grow your audience and business without using social media. I dive into that in this episode and share tangible things you can do to stop relying on social media for your business success.

Dr Brookfield gives seminars on the power of creativity. Why do we need it, and more importantly, how do we tap into it? If you are wanting to see more success with your business, you'll be surprised and delighted to learn how creativity can help!

Most people think growth and success comes from a large following on social media. For a quilter, they think writing quilt patterns is the best way to get income. Surprise! There is a better way. Guest Shannon Brinkley shares all about it.

Are you wondering how to start a business? If you're a brand new, starting from scratch entrepreneur, and wondering where to start... This podcast is for you! Join in on the podcast for helpful step by step information to get you started on the right track!

On the podcast: Saying no- Why you need to and how to do it with Elizabeth Chappell. Learn the art of saying no and find out how liberating that can be! Saying no is not always easy, but it is necessary. Elizabeth shares the why and the how of saying no and how gaining confidence in this area will bring you more joy and further your business success.

On the podcast this week, An Unexpected Career with Allie of Exhausted Octopus, we hear Allie's story of how posting a personal diary of her quilts on Instagram lead her right into a new career- which took her by complete surprise! Find out how you might also find inspiration for success, in unexpected ways, as you listen to this week's Craft to Career Podcast.

In this episode, Melanie Traylor of Southern Charm Quilts shares her inspiring journey from quilting hobbyist to successful entrepreneur. What began as a passion for quilting has transformed into a thriving business, with Melanie now owning her own fabric shop. But her journey doesn't stop there—she's preparing to release a self-published book and launch her very own fabric line! Listen as Melanie discusses the steps she took to turn her creative hobby into a full-fledged business, the challenges she faced, and the mindset shifts that helped her along the way. Whether you're looking to take the leap into entrepreneurship or grow an existing business, Melanie's story is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. Don't miss this episode if you're ready to turn your craft into a career and make your creative dreams a reality!

Are you dreaming of starting your own creative side business, but feeling uncertain about balancing it with a full-time career? Meet Sarah Ruiz, a NASA engineer by day and a quilterpreneur by night! In this episode, Sarah shares how she manages both a demanding engineering career and a thriving quilting business. Her journey offers a dose of inspiration and practical advice for anyone looking to juggle a full-time job with pursuing a passion project. Sarah's story proves that it is possible to make time for your dreams while managing other responsibilities. Tune in for encouragement and insights that could help you take the leap into starting your own creative side hustle! If you've ever wondered if it's truly possible to juggle two careers, this episode will help you find the answers—and the motivation—to move forward with your dreams. SHOW NOTES: Take Shirzad's Test: Take the Saboteur Assessment https://quilterscandy.com/category/podcast-episodes/ QUILTERS CANDY WEBSITE: https://quilterscandy.com/ INSTAGRAM: Craft to Career Podcast @crafttocareer Quilters Candy @quilters_candy

Can you still earn money with a blog? You bet! Our guest Shelly shares how she earns money with her blog so you can, too! Learn how to reach out to companies to get paid adds on your blog, some tips for getting more traffic and better blog quality. This is an episode you won't want to miss!

Nay sayers got you down? Receiving criticism is a part of running a business, but not all criticism is created equal. Nay sayers are people who try to shut you down, from saying your work isn't good to complaining of an over-saturated market. This episode is a deep dive into nay sayer resiliency—we'll talk about why nay sayers are the way they are, and how to stop them from getting you down. Be sure to chime in to learn: Can we have compassion toward nay sayers? Why negative feedback hits harder than positive feedback How to move forward after criticism Coping strategies for negative feeding Positive affirmations for success Where you can turn for honest feedback

Copywriting can be an intimidating side of business—but it doesn't have to be. Dive into the world of copywriting—and maybe even learn what exactly copywriting is—with Dani Paige. In this episode Dani and Elizabeth cover: How to make your writing stand out (Hint: this isn't something you learned in high school English!) Understanding the Rule of One and how it can boost your email success Finding confidence in sharing your voice Keys to coming to peace with losing followers Before and afters of good copywriting

Hear from Bobby of Geeky Bobbin on how she started her quilting career. In this episode, we cover: What age did she start, and how did she enter the quilting world? Learn what Bobby says her super power is (hint: it's one that's SUPER helpful with business!) Bobby's course on HOW TO use Instagram. The SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM and why Bobby offers it. Making quilting a place for ALL. How to be a guest for guilds and lectures. How she created a place for herself in the quilting world. How she learned NOT to copy others.

Join in a coaching call with quilt pattern designer Erin Grogan. Erin reached out to Elizabeth for a coaching call when she wasn't sure why her business wasn't growing. She had taken many steps to help her business grow and was frustrated that she wasn't seeing her hard work pay off. Erin was first introduced to the quilting world through garment sewing—she discovered quilt coats and fell in love with the quilting process. From this new-found passion Erin built her business, Love Sew Modern, and hopes to be the go-to resource for modern quilt patterns. Erin's motto is design, inspire, teach, and she is ready to take her business to the next level. In their coaching call Erin and Elizabeth discuss: Narrowing the focus of your business Building the business of your dreams Blogging success Growing exposure Converting followers into sales

Crafting careers come in all shapes and sizes, and no two paths look quite the same. That is especially true for Mister Domestic, a man who has taken the quilting world by storm with his crafting career. Matthew of Mister Domestic always felt a call to crafting and sewing. His life led him on a different path, but he found himself feeling unfulfilled. A loss in his life made him reevaluate the path he was on, and he set out to find who he really wanted to be. He started making clothes and posting his creations online, which led him on a journey of finding his craft and his community. Over the years Mister Domestic's crafting career has taken on different faces, and in light of the Black Lives Matter movement he decided to stand up for his values, a move that he worried might hurt his crafting career, but instead helped him build a community of like-minded people and create a safe space to come together. In this episode Elizabeth and Matthew discuss different elements of crafting careers, including: Creating a community Finding purpose Exploring all revenue streams Valuing your worth Focusing your audience Social media success

Business coaching call, what's the deal? If you've ever wondered what goes on during a business coaching call, this episode is for you. Casey was working as a dentist when her circumstances changed and she decided to take her life in a different direction: quilt pattern designing. She came into her business call wanting to know how to become self-sufficient, grow her business, turn a profit, and explore her creativity. In addition to her questions, she was able to get additional tips and advice for her business. In this episode you'll get to sit in on Casey's business coaching call with Elizabeth, where you'll learn a number of keys to business success, including: Building social media relationships Time management Focusing your business Website success Keys to collaborations Growth tips Finding confidence

Membership Success: Follow along as Jess shares her journey of creating a successful membership. Jess always knew she loved quilting and she felt a drive to turn her hobby into something bigger. She jumped into educating herself and exploring the world of quilting, and her path led her to start a business with her passion: longarm quilting. In this episode Jess gives insight on: The journey of finding your passion Viewing past endeavors as knowledge gained Building a community with room for everyone Successful membership tips

Emmy of Emmygination shares how she grew her design business with JUST Pinterest. One day Anthropolgie reached out to HER to hire her, and this was at the very beginning of Emmy's career. Can you imagine? Emmy is a genius marketer, brand designer, and Pinterest user. On this episode you'll learn WHY to use Pinterest as well as get some practical tips to start growing your business with Pinterest.

I remember hearing things like, "Don't be an artist. You can never earn a good income that way." Stacie is here to prove that idea wrong. In this episode we cover: Stacie's story on becoming a successful artist. Different revenue stream ideas for artists. Different business aspects creative needs to think about. The 'Leverage Your Artwork' course. Learn how and when Stacie crossed the Million Dollar Income mark When and how to hire people to help you with your business.