1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

-My name is Katie and I run a little business called Skunkboy Creatures. I prefer to call myself a fiber artist because it makes me feel fancy, but when it comes down to it, I guess you could say I make handmade stuffed animals. I live in the middle of the country with two amazing daughters and my best friend/high school sweetheart/husband. I love pretty dresses, beautiful weather, and breakfast!

2. What got you interested in blogging, and how long have you been blogging for?

-A friend set up a blog for me on a whim one day, and it was there so I originally started blogging as a way to share my most recently stitched animals. It’s been a couple of years now, and I love it the more I do it. I’ve seriously met so many wonderful, supportive people… including real life friends.

3. Can you tell us about your style?

-I am very girly and I definitely have a true love for vintage. I wear dresses or high waisted skirts most days, and I love colored tights. My Swedish Hasbeens are my most favorite shoes, but you can usually find me in colored oxfords or t-strap flats. I have an addiction to the color red, and for me, blush is a must.

4. You started the very successful Skunkboy Creatures. How did you come up with the idea to make such darling animals?

-Skunkboy Creatures just started out as a way to express myself creatively. I had recently had my first child and I was looking for something fun to make while she was sleeping. After stitching my first animal one night (even though I didn’t know how to sew), I was very proud and instantly hooked.

5. What are your favorite trends for spring?

-I’m very excited that things like backpack purses and clogs are so readily available. I also love short boots or booties with dresses, and seeing lace and crocheted things everywhere makes me all fuzzy inside! Peter pan collars = love.

6. When you’re not busy blogging, what can you be found doing?

-When I’m not blogging you can find me having coffee with my husband, having living room dance parties with my little girl, or snuggling with my sweet baby. I also spend time practicing my accordion, SEWING ANIMALS (of course), browsing flea markets, collecting Blythe dolls, and shopping for records. Oh, and shamefully watching Glee. It’s my guilty pleasure.

7. With regards to fashion, and your own handmade goods, what do you draw inspiration from?

-I draw a lot of inspiration from music I’m into, books I’m reading, people I’m friends with, vintage photographs, favorite pieces of clothing, and the plethora of beautiful things online. I feel like life has so much inspiration to offer, it seems impossible to run out!

8. If you had to pick one outfit to wear the rest of your life, what would it look like?

-This is the hardest question!!! As I’m staring at my closet, I’m going to say my Dear Creatures peter pan collar dress, loud pink tights, and my cream Swedish Hasbeens with bows on top. That’s pretty much my recipe for success– pretty dress, fun tights, cute shoes.

9. You seem to have a strong passion for vintage clothing. What do you love most about vintage, and what is your favorite vintage piece that you own?

-I think the most amazing thing about vintage clothing is the quality. When you consider how many years an article of clothing has not only been around, but been worn and loved, it’s amazing. It’s hard to find that kind of quality these days. Also, I love the flattering cuts of 50s and 60s dresses. They are lovely on so many body shapes, and the colors and prints are smile makers.

10. Do you have any advice for aspiring small business owners? What about someone interested in learning to sew plush (similar to your lovely animals), but really doesn’t know where to start?

-I think for any type of handmade business, not just plush, the key is to perfect your craft. Practice makes perfect, and the better you get at your niche, the more desirable it will be. I have been sewing plush animals for about 3 years now, and I can’t describe how much better I am than when I started. Also, it is SO important to appreciate and respect your customers. I can honestly say that my customers are the best, and I’ve formed great friendships with several of them. They make your business possible, so going the extra mile is definitely worth it!

Thank you so much Katie for doing this interview with me! Don’t forget to check out Katie’s blog, and Skunkboy Creatures Etsy shop.

On a side note, yesterday I had all four wisdom teeth out. The surgery didn’t go as smoothly as I had hoped it would, but it’s over now and I’m happy to be on the mend. Thank you so much to everyone that has wished me well the last few days.

Today my bottom jaw is pretty sore, and my neck/jawline is pretty sore. I’m a big puffy, but I hope that goes down throughout the day.

What are you up to today?

-Chelsea