February 15th 2006:ciara-loves-you.com

1when did you become a crafter? : I've technically been a crafter since I was little. I used to make little storybooks, written, illustrated and stapled together by yours truly. This morphed into making zines through middle school and high school, where I also took a few sewing classes to pass the time. Then, while I was in college, one of my best friends taught me how to knit. As soon as I mastered the knit and purl stitches, I was seriously addicted. And from there I've branched out into crocheting, jewelry, clothing design... you name it, I'll try it.

2 what do you sell alot of ? : Right now, I'm focusing on cat toys until I have the funds for bigger and more intricate projects. The Kitty Monster cat toy based on Domo-kun has been especially successful-- it was recently a featured item on Etsy.com's main page. I also have a line of food-themed toys (peas, tomatoes, lemons, etc.), and "hairballs," which are fuzzy crocheted toys filled with catnip and bells.

3 do you design youre web site? : I am my own web designer. It's something I'm incredibly proud of, probably moreso than the site deserves, because I had to teach myself.

4 how would you describe youre shop? : Quirky, chic, and pop culture-savvy. I don't want to carry the same thing you can find in a million other stores online. I want my buyers to feel unique and special when they wear or use the things I make for them. I like to think that I design items that you'd never think you wanted until you see them on my site. That's my goal, anyway.

5 how long do you spend in a craft store? : Oh, I can spend years-- I'd open my own if I could afford to. When I'm really pressed for time and bring a list, I can usually get in and out in about 45 minutes. When I'm just roaming around looking for inspiration... don't wait up. :)

You can find ciara-loves-you here.ciara-loves-you.com Item to check out . Kitty's Revenge Catnip Toy