Briana Dragon Creations

*Where are you from? Tell us a bit about yourself.

I'm from Maine, currently living in Georgia. I've been crafting since I was about 5 and I'm constantly doing something crafty or artistic.

*How did you decide on your shop name? Why did you start your business?

I use the name BrianaDragon or BrianaDragon Creations everywhere online, so I keep using it. That way people always know how to find me. The first part is my name, and I love dragons, so... ;)
I started selling my crafts years ago just to make ends meet. Then I started to really love creating. Now I'm doing it because I missed the joy of making physical items (after years of doing digital art). I'm also hoping to add to our income.

*What are 5 things you want people to think when they see your product?

Pretty
cool
weird
neat
I have to own that!

*What’s your supply addiction; is there a specific color or type of supply you just can’t pass up?

I guess I don't really have one. I pretty much take what I can get. I do have a certain love for reclaiming broken stuff and turning the parts into items where you'd never guess their humble origins, like turning tacky old Christmas ornaments into classy goth jewelry.

*What do you do when you’re not being an artist? What activities do you enjoy?

If I could I'd probably be creating all the time. When I'm not crafting I do enjoy MindJolt Games, various TV shows and listening to lots of music with the occasional singing and dancing.

*Which item in your shop did you enjoy making the most and why?
Wow, that's a hard one. Even though it was difficult the Woven Turtle Choker set (www.etsy.com/listing/100846741/hand-woven-bead-choker-and-earring-set) was very satisfying. That was one of the first things I wove by hand after throwing out my loom, so it was quite a triumph.

*What keeps you motivated?

Looking at the awesome things that other people make and wanting to be both that good and that successful. I'm constantly being inspired by other artisans to do better work and be more successful.

*If you could give a piece of advice to a new shop - what would it be?

Don't get discouraged by a lack of sales. I've worked enough sites to know that it can take a while to hit your stride, but waiting for that first sale is always the hardest part. just keep faith and keep adding new items, the sales will come if your work is good. And on that note, never stop trying to improve the quality of your work.

* Is this your first craft adventure or have you tried other crafts? What would you like to try?

I've tried more kinds of art and crafts than I can list. Jewelry is something I've done before and will do again. I would love to start working with higher end materials like real silver and crystals though. Wire weaving fascinates me, and I'm hoping to try Viking Knit and spool knitting soon.

*Are there other places on the net we can find you?

twitter.com/brianadragon
www.facebook.com/BrianaBlair.Jewelry
brianadragon.com/
www.zazzle.com/mbr/238965068089071689