Melissa runs two shops, ThingsinStuff and Butterflyeffect. She will be at our show on Sunday, Dec. 13th at Fenario from 11-5.

Meet Your Maker (MYM): Describe what you make and how you got your start.

Melissa (M): My husband (Brandon) and I opened up ThingsinStuff on Etsy in January 2007. My neighbor Alysse, introduced me to Etsy. What a great place. Brandon makes sustainable, eco-friendly wooden toys. He obtains wood scraps from local woodworking shops. His favorites are the catapults! We've both been making goods for 10+ years. I make all kinds of things. At the present I've been making these fun pixie hoodEs inspired by the Magical Realm all around us. I make wool wall hangings to bring you into that world. I also make Wings and Faerie Dresses for Sweet Potato Pie here in Eugene.

For Butterflyeffect shop, I make fun and funky sustainable clothing/accessories for all to enjoy. Right now I'm making leaf pouches out of recycled materials. (more from the woodland theme ) They seem to be a big hit. I've been selling them all over the planet.

MYM: Is this your largest source of income, or do you have another job?

M:For me, Etsy is just one of source of income.

MYM: Any advice for someone considering making the leap from hobby crafting to selling?

M:Do what you love and love what you do.

MYM: Have you had any big breaks? How did they happen?

M: Well when we were living in Taos, New Mexico. I was approached to make several alter cloths for a Buddhist Zendo. I was also approached at FaeriesWorld by a photographer and he wanted me to design and make costumes for his business, which was Faerie Portraits. Never got that call.

MYM: What are your most effective marketing/promoting tips?

M: Have good clear pictures of your goods. Communication is really "key" when talking to potential customers. There is Twitter, Facebook; the more places your goods are online the more eyes see it. Posting at least 3 times a day on etsy is helpful.

MYM: Where else can we find you online?

M: At my blog and on Twitter.