There are some shops on Etsy that just make you say, “Aww!” and Beantown Handmade is definitely one of them! That’s why I am so excited that Anne, one of of the owners, could spare a little time for an interview. And with the holidays coming don’t forget your furry friends!
Anne & Bean
Q. Could you tell us a little about yourself?
My name is Anne and I create the handmade pet apparel and accessories in the shop. My husband, Michael, photographs our wonderfully handsome and patient supermodel Boston Terrier named Bean. Michael and I are both artists and adjunct college art instructors. We are originally from the east coast and we met in graduate school when we were getting our MFAs.
The Blue Baron and Citron Wool Sweater
Q. How did you begin making such cute accessories for pets?
Beantown Handmade started as a small experiment on Etsy last November. I had made more sweaters for Bean than he could ever wear, and I was a big fan of Etsy so I thought I’d try selling a few sweaters just for fun. I loved hearing about people’s pets and seeing photos of them wearing things I’d created. I was quickly addicted and soon found I could create a part time job out of something I loved to do.
Q. Your shop is so adorable! What is your creative process like?
I love the creative process involved with crochet and the history and tradition involved with the medium. I love looking at vintage pieces and my collection of vintage buttons and fabrics is often the source for new designs. I am also inspired by dogs and the unique challenge of designing for them. I try to create things that are respectful of their needs and won’t inhibit or bother them – even the silly hats, which are intended mostly just for photo shoots.
Business Jacket & Pink Blossom Hat
Q. What’s a normal day in your life like?
I am currently teaching five days a week, so my day usually starts at the university where I mold young minds. ;) I get home around lunch and Bean and I go for a walk. Then he settles down into a sun spot for a nap and I delve into my emails and conversations. Afternoons are spent either in my studio painting or working on crocheting, sewing, buttoning and packaging orders. My evenings are usually devoted to dinner with my husband, an evening family walk, and crocheting while watching my latest Netflix delivery. Bean usually chomps on a rawhide and keeps me company.
Q. What inspires you most of all?
Bean is a constant source of inspiration and as a studio companion he reminds me to love unconditionally, live in the moment and not pass judgment. I am also really inspired by customers’ stories about their love of their pets.
The Giveaway: a Lucy Flower to make your pet’s collar even cuter!
super cute!
To enter simply visit Beantown Handmade and leave a comment here about your favorite item.
The giveaway will be open until November 12th. Good luck!
Tags: beantown handmade, etsy interview, giveaway
marina on
Seeing as how my little whippet rescue is a skinny minnie with short hair, she would look so cute and be so warm in the warm and thick dog coat. Especially in blue! That would have to be my favorite item.
Thank you so much for introducing me to Beantown! I’m enamored. Anything for my pet. :)
Lauren
Awww! I love this shop! Bean is so adorable. I have so many favorites, but I think right now it’s the Toffee High Collar (and the Beanzilla Hat just for fun).
We love Anne and Bean! My Dudley would be pretty darn warm in the high collar dog sweater or maybe the black and blue flocked bird shirt…Dudley looks mighty good in blue and I love birds :)
Toooo cute!! :o)
Oh my goodness! I am in love! The boston terrier pom pom hat is cute. But I would love the jacket.