Tina and Lucy’s CatHouse is now open!

Instagram post here.

It took about two weeks to have it ready to launch, there are still a lot of thing to do and improve, but I decided to start with what I had and then build it from there. Baby steps. Otherwise I’ll get dragged into the whirlpool that my brain is when diving in a new project.

So, before I move on to the next phase, let’s write a little summary of the experience so far.

First, I learned a lot, which is something I like.

Second, there are a lot of bits and pieces to decide and create. Lots of possibilities, leading to overthinking, which is also why I set my foot down and decided to launch now.

Third, it’s hard to write about because it wasn’t a 1-2-3 straight path more like a bee flying path.

So, let’s start with the tools I’ve been using:

• Procreate: to create the initial design, as well to manipulate pictures to use on mock-ups. This is a paid app, but I had it already.
• Canva: to modify the design and add elements such as text or frames. It’s also great to create mock-ups and pictures to add to listings. I’m currently using the free version as I used the pro trial already.
• Flosscross: to convert the design into a cross stitch patterns. It’s an excellent tool, and it’s free! You can export the charts in several formats.
• Word: yes, old boring word. I use it for the final part of the creation process, to create the final pdf.

In general, I am trying to keep the investment as low as possible for the time being, using tools and resources that I either own or that are free. When (and if) I make a profit, I’ll reinvest it.*

I also used Excel to create a tracker for the various products and planning. But really, I would just find any excuse to create something in Excel.

Then, let’s move on to skills and miscellaneous things:

• Photos: I suck at taking pictures. And let’s not even start about manipulating them. After I spent an afternoon taking photos of frames and random objects, and editing them, I realised you can buy mock-up pictures to use for your design on Etsy. At the end, I used mine because after setting them aside for a few hours, they weren’t too bad.
• Social media: love/hate relationship. It takes time to create engaging content to share, but I’m having fun in learning how to do reels.
• General Etsy managing: oh wow. That’s a lot of stuff there to discover how it works, like discount codes**
• Creating cross stitch patterns: up until a couple of weeks ago the idea of creating my own patterns never crossed my mind, let alone creating from my own designs, and selling them. It’s satisfying seeing a scribble in Procreate becoming a nicely formatted pdf.
• Templates: the first pattern took forever, the second slightly less. I am a big fan of templates: the initial time investment is high, but then it gets much faster, and also consistent.

So, what now? Let’s sit back and let the money trickle in.

Just kidding.

While I am trying to keep the initial money investment low, the time investment has been intense. The first week I was on holiday in the middle of the mountains at my parents’ place, so I dedicated most of the day to it. Then once back in Ireland to my full time job, I’ve been trying not to obsess over it, and not to abandon all of my other projects, get some rest too, but well… you know me.

It’ll be a while before my first sale: a quick Google search saying 1-3 months, so I’d better sit back and create more patterns. Two designs are already created, and I am working on the charts. And a few more ideas are cartwheeling in my brain.

The next phase also includes improving my logo, and updating the shop look, with a banner and pictures.

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*By the time I finished writing this post, I decided to invest in a pattern making tool. Floss cross is great, but I have been feeling I need more already. I’m considering Macstitch.

**Since you made it that far, here’s a promo code just for you for 20% off: BLOG20