Image: Poppy Almond Design
Tell me more about your craft? What is it? When did you find out you were good at it?
I am a Freelance illustrator and designer based in Leeds. I design and sell a range of prints, greeting cards and accessories under poppyalmonddesign as well as designing and illustrating for different brands such as Punky pins and Stringberry.
Why did you decide to turn into a business?
I was a full-time designer at Skinnydip London for just over a year which I loved but it was always my dream to freelance and sell my own designs. I also really wanted to move back to Leeds so I decided to make the jump, move back to Leeds and started selling my work.
Tell us more about the process, the step by step process of your craft-From the concept to the final product.
Most of my initial ideas come Little sketches or doodles when I’m out and about. I usually then expand on some of these ideas and draw them up on my iPad or illustrator. Some designs I’ll just post on my Instagram for people to enjoy and the work I really like I’ll usually develop into prints or cards and get them printed.
Image: Poppy Almond Design
Where do you sell your product?
I sell work online on the department store and Etsy. I do some art markets around Leeds and in have stock in stores such as Handmade Nottingham.
Have you noticed a rise in crafters and people buying creations?
I feel like as I’ve only just recently started selling work I haven’t been able to gauge the market that well. I do think there is a rise in art markets and online communities for creators though.
What is the crafting industry like?
I love being apart of the crafting industry, despite my work not being typical ‘craft’ the online communities, in particular, Instagram for indie businesses and creatives is so nice to be a part of.
Image: Poppy Almond Design
Do you recommend people starting up their own crafting creations and turning it into a business?
Yes! If it’s something you are passionate about and love doing it doesn’t feel like work and you get to do something you love every day. Just keep doing what you love and if it happens to turn into a business that’s great!
Image: Poppy Almond Design
You can find Poppy Almond Design on her Instagram
Her Etsy store And her Department Store
Or on her blog
Gemma's Journey 