Over the last 5 years we have been very lucky to feature some incredibly talented designer makers between our pages. In honour of our 100th issue some of our favourites have returned to share their advice for successfully running a small business…
Dani Ives is an artist, educator and author living in Arkansas with her husband and two dogs. She specializes in creating realistic, needle felted portraits of animals and calls her technique painting with wool. She travels and teaches workshops worldwide and just released her first book, Painting with Wool: 16 Artful Projects to Needle Felt.
Dani first appeared in Bustle & Sew Magazine way back in February 2015 so we asked her how her business has changed since then. She told us;
“Back in February 2015, I hadn’t yet left my day job to pursue art full time, but I was planning on doing just that a few months later. This year will be my fourth as a full-time artist, and I never would have thought that what I’ve accomplished so far would be possible. I’ve been teaching my art all around the world, I show work in galleries and book all my commission availability, I lead online courses, and I just published a book about my felting techniques. I’m still learning and adapting my business as I go (and as the internet frequently changes, ha!), but I am really proud of the business and life that I’ve built.”
We also asked Dani if she had any words of wisdom for someone wanting to start their own business. Her advice was;
“Try to avoid comparing yourself, your journey and your business to anyone else out there. This can be difficult, and it’s something I still have to work on from time to time. But know that you are unique and your journey is your own, and if you do the work, things will happen for you.”
Be sure to pop by Dani’s website to see all of her gorgeous creations, you can also find her on Instagram too!
Read the full interview with Dani in our 100th issue special – get your copy HERE.
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