Bead Making Career

[suzanne2428]

Hi all. It looks like my full time job is going away and I am pursuing full time bead making. Is it possible to make a good living making beads? Does anyone have some advice on this subject. I don't know if I'm being realistic in my desire to do what makes me happy instead of what I dread - working for the man.

I'd love to hear your comments and suggestions.

Thanks
Suzanne

[periwinkle]

I quit my job as a teacher 2 years ago and I haven't looked back. I do sub to bring income in, but I hope to phase that out when possible. I look forward to the day when my art is my income...I say if you desire it, then go for it! We only come this way for a short while, and life is too precious to be wasting it doing something you aren't happy doing. Often there is a lot of fear in leaving the safety and security of a regular job, i.e. "working for the man", but if you can overcome that (or are forced to), sometimes that is a blessing in disguise!

Veronica

[suzanne2428]

Thanks Veronica. I feel like I'm jumping into the unknown that is for certain. There is so much to learn about bead making as a business. This forum is a great support. I live in Studio (practically - I come out for food...haha) but am in a position that I can think about a "new" career. One that does make me happy. Money may make the world go round, but it isn't the answer to everything.

Good luck to you as well. I'll be thinking of you as you pursue your dream.

Suzanne

[SleepyCreekGlass]

Have you heard of the "Starving Artist" movement? :)

I'm living proof that it can be done...but, it's difficult. My best advise is get your name EVERYWHERE...make yourself the "Go Too" for your following.

Best of luck to you!

[Flonche]

Suzanne, I have asked myself that question many times. Turning a hobby into a reliable income is a difficult step for me because it means pressure and making things that I know will sell rather than making things because I would love to try something new. This debate has been widely discussed here and i'm sure in other crafts and hobbies forums, too (Etsy may have some useful tips, by the way).

I couldn't agree more that money isn't the answer and I sometimes found that it can kill the fun in life, but that's just me

[suzanne2428]

Yes - I agree. I've been there with previous ventures in handstamped and handpainted clothing. This isn't the first time I've ventured out on my own and gone back to the work force. It's just easier to go back to work and when you need money - you need money. Scarey stuff. I need a couple of sugar daddies...haha