Wednesday Indie Artist Fixx with yorktown road

I’m sure this isn’t the 1st time you’ve seen the lovely goods from Carol Gilbert of yorktown road on Indie Fixx, since I’ve featured them before here + here + here. But, I thought it might fun to get to know the designer behind those lovely goods and that’s why I interviewed her for today’s edition of Wednesday Indie Artist Fixx.

1. What’s the name of your business, what do you create and sell and how did you get your start?

yorktown road (Etsy Shop) is a line of accessories for women and the home. Using freeform texture, shaping and saturated hand-dyed color, I add interest to simple and functional pieces. The designs are never really planned. They take shape on their own as I work with the fabric and the end result is always a surprise.

2. When did you get your start and what made you decide to take the plunge?

I worked as Director of Stores and Retail Operations for an apparel company but left when I had my son. I missed my job and the travel but wanted to take time to explore venues that I never had time for in the past. I purchased a used sewing machine, enrolled in classes and programs, took workshops. Things evolved naturally, when the timing was right.

3. Share some of your inspirations.

I never know what will provoke me to explore a new idea. Nature, a gift from my child, an unfinished art project, a song, a fence at a baseball game. Inspiration is what life is made of and I try to keep my eyes and mind open so that it doesn’t pass my by.

4. What’s your favorite part of having a creative business?

Freedom. Freedom to explore, learn, take risks, evolve, express myself through my work. Freedom to get up and go running if I feel overwhelmed with a project. It’s a wonderful thing.

5. Is there ever anything about it that drives you crazy?

The operational side of a businesses require so much time. I currently have 2042 emails in my inbox. Two months of receipts and expenses to enter. Expensive equipment that needs to be replaced. Images to get to my graphic designer so she can publish my new website (she has been waiting for months!). The list grows longer by the day. I am my business and it is really hard to do it all. I need to do a better job with this side of things.

6. Share something silly about yourself.

I like to watch old episodes of “Soul Train” with my kids. They love it! There is nothing like grooving for 30 minutes before dinner to renew your spirit and energy. And my daughter says I have some smooth moves.

7. Is your home messy or organized? Which one do you think is ideal and why?

When we are super busy it gets messy. When my schedule slows up or we are expecting company we pull it back together. I try to relax about it during the busy times and hope no one shows up without calling first… but they always do!

8. When you aren’t working what do you like to do.

Run, walk, explore outdoors, be with my family, tend my vegetable garden, daydream, work on our home, relax. I try to make the most of what I have in my life.