What inspired you to start sculpting?

I was looking at eBay for a fairy to add to my collection and came across a gorgeous cute, tiny fairy made of clay. He was unique and I bought him. A lovely lady named Kara Remick made him. (www.ittleones.co.uk). She inspired me to sculpt.

What is your background (previous career area?)

I trained in college to be a hairdresser, but didn't stick to it. It wasn't what I wanted to do. Back in my school days, I didn't really know what I wanted to do when I left school. I have had a few jobs as a seamstress in lingerie factories which I did quite enjoy and then when I had my children, I had to work part time doing cleaning jobs to fit in around the children and my husbands work hours.

Did you have specialist training in sculpture? - if so what/where was your training?

No. I had no training whatsoever. I am a self-taught artist which means I learnt it all by myself. I did have some help along the way from Kara (the lady I bought my first sculpture from), the internet and books.

How did you go about setting your business up? (from a business perspective - initial funding etc) Did you have any professional help?

With the help of my husband who was training to do web design. My website was the first website he had ever built and I needed a website to advertise my work and he needed to practise! I had no professional help whatsoever starting up my business.

Did you carry out any research you carried out to know your business would work?

No, I didn't do any research to know whether my business would succeed or not. It was just a chance I would take, if it did well, then great, if not, then market it more.

Where do you carry out your work now?

I work from home and sell on the internet. I use eBay USA, eBay UK and Etsy.com mainly, to sell my work. I do offer commission pieces for those people who would like something different.

Do you need lots of specialist equipment?

No. Mostly everything I use can be purchased in any big craft/hobby store. I do have to buy my clay from the internet as the clay I use is an American brand.

Do you make all of the sculptures you sell yourself?

Yes. Every sculpture is handmade by myself. I do not use any moulds when I create, therefore making each sculpture a unique piece of art.

What inspires your designs?

I have a great imagination, so I can usually think of something without the help of others.

How many hours do you work a week?

I'd say about 25 hours a week. I ususally work about 4 hours in an afternoon/evening/night off and on. I don't sit constantly working those 4 hours as I have the children/jobs around the house to attend to also.

How does the job fit round your family life?

It fits in great. I can still get to do the things I want to do and spend time with my husband and children. It's the best job I've had as I've always wanted to work from home.

How do you find clients - do you advertise?

Yes, I do advertise, but not much. I have made a lot of friends around the world who have exchanged banners with me, so there are a lot of websites out there with my name on them. Ebay and Etsy are also another good way to advertise. Customers either buy my work directly from eBay or Etsy or they email me through my website.

What is the earning potential?

The earning potential depends on a lot. A lot of money can be earnt if you were to put all of your time into creating. Some pieces sell for 50.00 UK Pounds and others have sold well over 150.00 UK Pounds. The more sculptures made, the more money can be earnt.

Is the job/running the business rewarding?

Yes it is. Everything I make is a work of art and has a little bit of me in it. I love the fact that I can make something from a blob of clay. It makes me feel great to know that there are people out there who want my work.

Do you think it is a job that fits in well with being a Mum?

Most definitely. You can still be at home to bring up the children and work the hours when the time suits you better (like when the baby is taking a nap!).

Any advice for a Mum or Dad wanting to start sculpting?

Yes. If you have attended an art college or have some form of training in art, it is a HUGE advantage as it won't take you long at all to get stuck in. It is really, really hard to learn the craft all by yourself. Pateince and perseverence will soon pay off though if you have no training. If you want to have a go at this and don't know where to start then I can help you. Drop me an email and I'll get back to you. You can contact Lisa at - butterfae@gmail.com

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