About
Gothic Creations....but not all your things are gothic. why?
I started Gothic Creations way back in 1999-2000 when I was just an adorable goth girl with a love of soap making. Since then I may have let soap making return to a hobby but I have kept the business name. I do admit a few months ago I thought of changing my business name but then I realized if I was going to have a name that meant nothing, like Pepper Tree Lane, then I might as well keep that name I have had for over 10 years. Plus, isn't it good the break molds and stereotypes?
Tell me more about your business.
Well, it's just me. A one woman business because as of yet my dog isn't inclined to help. Like I said I started in back in about 2000 with handmade soap. At that same time I found myself in need of a new purse. I search stores all over and found nothing to my liking. Having moderate sewing skills, I decided to try making my own. Pretty soon people were stopping and asking me where I got my bag. I started making them to sell at the small outdoor markets I would sell at during the summer. Obviously, they sold well. One of my original bags, The Victorian Crazy Quilt crossbody bag, appeared in the very first issued of Haute Handbags. It's only in the reader submissions section but hey I am still published.
Who
My name is Joanna. I make all the items in my home studio which is located south of Seattle, WA. I'd mention the town but most people have never heard of it let alone be able to pronounce it.
I am it for the business. I make, list, pack, and pretty much do everything for my one woman business. When I am not working I enjoy knitting, baking, photography, and spending time with my retired racing greyhound.
I learned to sew when I was 7. My mom is a quilter and she would let me use her Singer Featherweight sewing machine to make small quilts. I wasn't much of a quilter and only make quilts on rare occassions. As a teenager I tried my hand at garment making and I found that I enjoyed making wearable items. Although, these days I rarely have time to make my own clothing but like all seamstresses I have a drawer of patterns because one day I will.
What inspires me
I love fabrics. Really it is the fabric that inspires me. I don't buy fabrics that I don't personally like on some level. This, also, causes me to choose high quality fabrics. If I am going to spend time making something, I want it to last. Of course, the durability of your items will vary based on your own uses.
