Tuesday, February 26, 2008

The Artisan's Dilemma

"Should I keep it?"

Those of us who handcrafted items know this question well. The creation of something new, special, and meaningful is not taken lightly, and part of the artist goes into each piece.

For those who sell their work, each creation is a fraught with questions. Ideally it is listed for SALE, to generate enough income to keep making more. And really, one can only keep so many of an item. Painters have only so much wall space to display their work. Jewelry-makers cannot cover their body in new pieces.

Still, there are times when an item speaks so clearly - keep me! Then the agony and rationalization begin. Perhaps wearing those earrings can be a form of advertising! That lovely tote bag should be displayed on my arm for best advantage. If it doesn't sell in 2 weeks I'll keep it.

Am I facing this decision currently? Of course! How will I decided? No idea....

6 comments:

Nicole Solo said...

I try to keep one of each of my repeated designs - but when it comes to one-of-a-kind jewelry that I've made, I'd say I'm able to part with about half of it!

Unknown said...

Funny! I feel your pain!
;)

Have a great night..

Sylvia C.

(just stopped by from the etsy forums!)

TexasTesla said...

Hi Nicole and Sylvia! Thanks for stopping by!

As I'm posting next, I just couldn't part with this particular creation! However, since I have enough pieces left, I'm going to make another set to sell. :-)

Mrs. Miller said...

I agree. But I also feel pain when no one snatches it up in the first day too. How can you not like my brilliant creative idea?

TexasTesla said...

Exactly RedRaider! Particularly when you DID struggle with the decision to list...how can the entire etsy community not LOVE your new piece. :-)

jeweledrabbit said...

I have the opposite problem. I never think of making something for myself. LOL