I thought I’d snagged my first sale, until I got to thinking about it…
A couple weeks ago, I got a message on Etsy requesting a custom order, even though I’m not offering them yet. I was initially excited for the challenge and came up with some cool ideas, but ultimately the project just wasn’t feasible. However, I still tried to put the inspiration to good use.
So, the conversation began in reference to one of my current listings, this unique macrame piece. The gentleman said that he was part of a crew who were doing a something special for the season finale of Survivor : Ghost Island, & he was trying to find a bunch of custom made macrame necklaces for about 25 people. He said they had a really cool pendant being made, which features the skull in the logo, & he wanted two-toned macrame necklaces with purple & orange beads, embedded pebbles, and/or a “nature” theme. He said he had a budget of up to $8 per necklace, but said he was willing to pay extra for any special beads. And he said he liked the simplicity of this necklace, which makes sense since the pendant is obviously the focus of the piece. He seemed to be getting irritated with my ambition (I just wanted to make sure I could help him! LOL), so I figured I’d continue the conversation after a good brainstorm & scavenger hunt…
After looking at the logo & contemplating what he requested, my boyfriend & I came up with some great ideas. White then black hemp, with wood tiki beads, an orange & a purple bead on either side, white pebbles netted in beside the pendant hanger, & an adjustable chain & lobster clasp closure. That would’ve been perfect! So, I went to four different stores, and couldn’t find anything suitable!! Especially not for such a low budget, which was a concern my boyfriend was very adamant about. Figuring I was one of several people contacted with this request, I let it fizzle.
But the ideas were just too cool to not try as one of my next series of listings (which I’ll start listing in my shop soon!) Voila : a reject!! Rather, a lesson in techniques. I didn’t even bother adding closures because it’s just going to have to be scrapped, even though it’s still kind of cool. I don’t like how I switched the colors; none of that turned out right. The beads are kind of lame, but kinda cool in how they go along with the logo colors. And I can’t net pebbles in hemp. Just not gonna work. Otherwise, I almost like it LOL, but it’s still definitely a reject!
“Success is a series of mistakes” ~ Billie Joe Armstrong
Even though this project didn’t pan out, it was a fun & educating process. At least I know I’ll be better prepared for future challenges.
What do you think?
- Was $8.00 each for 25 necklaces reasonable?
- Do you like what I came up with?
I’d love to hear your opinion in the comments below, or shoot me an email at ZenBlitz@yahoo.com
Have a great week! (And don’t forget to visit my Etsy shop!) ❤
zen BLITZ 