Etsy Alberta Street Team Blog: Cosmikgoo, New Member Feature

2013/02/14

Cosmikgoo, New Member Feature

Name (first only) and city/town you live in?

Heather, Calgary, Alberta

What do you sell and why?

I sell one-of-a-kind cards and prints created from original linocuts I design. I just love the whole process of printmaking, from beginning with the design to the final print!

When and how you did you get started?

I finally took the plunge and opened my Etsy shop in October 2011. I thought about starting my shop for a long time so I am proud of myself for finally doing it!

How did you decide on your shop name?

Back in the 90s I was activating a Hotmail account and needed a user name...naturally my very plain name was already taken so I literally made up a name on the spot. Thanks to a couple Frank Zappa albums near the computer I came up with Cosmikgoo. It later became a nickname and I started using it as my signature on my pottery and other artwork...it was a natural choice for my shop when I opened it. Kind of quirky and makes no sense, just like me! ;)

Is there an item in your shop you enjoyed making the most and why?

I really enjoy the whole process of designing, carving and printing so I like making all my cards and prints. However, I do have a special fondness for my 'I Miss Your Face' card that was inspired by my niece Samantha.

What’s your favourite part of the selling experience?

As a buyer, I love the experience of opening the package when it arrives and seeing my purchase in person! As a seller, I think my favourite part is preparing the order for shipping. Being on the other side of the sale, I know that the person receiving the cards or prints will be excited to receive their order. And since I make most items to order, each person's items are created just for them. I like to take special care with each one because let's face it, if someone else likes something you created enough to buy it, its a big deal!

Do you have a day job?

I have been known in some circles as a communications and marketing mastermind.

Are there other crafts you’d like to try?

I have tried so many crafts over the years it almost boggles the mind! I'm pretty happy focusing on a few choice crafts these days but I would like to improve my sewing skills. Other than that, I'm trying not to be distracted by shiny, cool crafty things!

Please provide 5 random facts about yourself to help the team get to know you better.
1) I have an obsession with bacon. I even declared the closest Saturday to my birthday as Saint Bacon's Day.
2) I shook hands with Prince William when he visited Alberta in 2011. Haven't washed my hand since. Its pretty disgusting.
3) I regularly and accidentally make up words while in conversation with people.
4) My CFO and Head of HR are Chihuahuas.
5) Photography is my first love. I own four cameras including an old-fashioned Polaroid.