Right now my hands are exhausted. For two and a half day I spent the time hand quilting and embroidering between customers and during lull period. I got more done than I normally do in two sessions at the shop. Highly productive times to say the least. The gold out of the whole weekend is the contact list. From what I was told by vendors who were there before, I may get commission requests. That I can really appreciate. I've done custom work before in the art world and research. It is nice to use your noodle to come up with a design/approach that a client likes. Sometimes I call it negotiating a learning curve, getting as close to a mutually created vision as possible.
Dallas Handmade Arts Market is a great venue. I'll be going back and learning more from customers what they are seeking that my style/approach might fill. I know for a fact now that I'll need to learn how to design for men. That include darker colors and pin striping for the quilting, if at all. I'd like to find a bag design that would speak directly to the male senses. I may have to fine a GQ and drill myself till I understanding the pairing of fabrics and limitations on design. Truly, how far can I go with the mola work in that vein? Some of the hats are made from men's old suiting. One was a purchase for a friend's husband. That's one, I'm going to have to do my homework for more.
Bottom line is I am thrilled to have met everyone this weekend and totally appreciate the input. For those of you who were there or were far away and knew: Thanks for supporting the product in the ways you do, I look forward to creating more to make you smile, giggle and gaze.