Many card makers buy or download designs online. Do you actually do all the drawing yourself or depend on downloadable designs?
Well, it all depends on what I am trying to create. There are many templates available online. I do download them but modify it as per my requirement. So I feel you can be inspired by the designs online, however, the final outcome purely depends on your creativity.
What kind of materials do you use for your cards and could you briefly explain the creative process?
I do buy cardstock, ribbon, punches, stationary, inks, stamps, embellishments and other decorative ingredients. While starting work, I keep the specific occasion in mind, and the colours and embellishments too are decided on the same. I then create the template for the cards, decorate it with pattern paper, and use images if required. And the rest sometimes is enhanced by using flowers, swirls, ribbons and buttons.
Is it easy to resource materials for card making?
Card making material is extremely expensive in India. There are only a few stores in India like Hobby Ideas, and Itsy Bitsy. I have been buying things from India however, now I am trying to get things from abroad. Outside India, the prices for the materials are much lower.
With several big card manufacturers in the field, what future do you foresee for handmade cards?
Yes, many brands exist in the field of greeting cards; however, they too are slowly adding handmade cards to their existing product line. Moreover, a handmade card is a symbol of love and affection. Each handmade card is unique as it uses different techniques and embellishments.
Do you work on the designing board with your creations or go with the flow as you work?
Like any other work, first I have an outline of the card which includes the crafting technique, card style and colors. For decoration of the cards, I go with the flow. One needs to learn more and more in terms of using crafts material. You have to be sure that what you are creating is attractive and the depiction of the sentiments appeals to others.
How do you manage to balance your home and work?
I work only when my child is resting, and sometimes in the evening too.
What, according to you is the minimum capital requirement, for starting a home-based business of the kind?
You can start card making as a business by investing a minimum of Rs. 5000. As you get more exposure to card making you get the feeling of buying more related stuff. So, it is a gradual process. Till now I have been buying decorative items to make cards. In recent times, I have been making more investment to buy some crafting tools, which can speed up and enhance card making. These tools definitely help in getting desired results quickly, and are helping me in unveiling crafts at a larger scale.
How has networking, and staying in touch with contacts, helped you in business?
It really does help. It is through networking only that I got my first order.
What advice would you give to someone who would like to take up a similar commercial project?
I will say that listen to your heart and do what you want to. Don’t try to please everybody rather concentrate on your inner self. Be positive and just keep going. Automatically everything will fall in place.
Wishing you all the best, Bhawana, for your future endeavours.
