Devout Dolls Exclusive and Interview

Our LAST EXCLUSIVE until November is with one of my favorite people Sara from Devout Dolls.  Sara and I recently went to Disneyland together and had a blast!  I have known Sara for years now through various things that we do.  From craft shows, to business classes and, of course, our love of plush.  It has made us good buddies so it was extra special to have some quality time together in Southern California.  Anyways, I am so happy to introduce her to you if you don't know her yet (if that's possible) and her amazing plushies that will be here starting Sept. 29th!  This will be the last one until November since Plush You! is one big plush exclusive :)  Until then, read more about this amazingly versatile plush maker!

S- What was your inspiration behind this exclusive?

DD- I love all kinds of animals but my very favorite also happens to be my BFF. My Chihuahua Rubin is a continuing source of inspiration for me. His over-sized ears and buggy eyes, his tiny body with the giant personality. It's the perfect mix for a cute and crazy plush.

S- You have had a long history now with making plush and other awesomeness.  How did you start? 

DD- I started in 1997 by making dolls and monsters just for fun. My mom has always been a doll maker and has taught me a lot through her own business of making fun fabric things. Once I showed off my creations, people seemed to really like them so this encouraged me to give it a go. I found a store next to my house that shared my same sensibilities (Apocalypse Hardware) and I had such an amazing reaction from people. Eventually it all took over and I was able to do it full-time. Thanks fans!!! xoxo

S-What lessons have you learned since the beginning that have really stuck with you?

DD- That this business is really hard work and to really make it survive, you have to have a lot of patience and stamina. Most importantly though, you have to really enjoy it. It's a labor of love for sure. I've also learned, if you want to make it, you have to try as many outlets for selling as possible. I think the reason I'm still around is because I'm doing as many different things as I can. I do retail with my website, Etsy, and shows and  I also do wholesale and consignment. When one thing slows down, usually the other thing will pick up. I always have a back-up. It's a fine balance but it all ends up working together.

S- Favorite tool you could not live one day without?

DD-I thrive off of tools, some would say you're only as good as your tools. My favorite is a pair of surgical forceps. I use them for everything. Turning, stuffing, pinching (like pliers). They're great! That and a good pair of sharp scissors!

S- Where do you see yourself ten years from now?

DD- Well, hopefully I'll still be going strong with my business. I'd hope, by then, I'll be super organized and on top of things and it will practically run itself. That's wishful thinking though. I don't really want to get so big that I'm having things made for me, that doesn't really appeal. I just want to be able to still make all the things I imagine up have people continue to like them. I feel so super lucky to have this be my job. I'm just going to try to make it last as long as I possibly can! Although, if I could do it from a little cottage in the South of France, I'd be up for that too! ;)