A Crafter’s Life: my day in photos.
This gal makes fabulous little bags and pouches {I should know since that’s what holds the coins from rolling around at the bottom of my purse}. I know that many of you are already big fans of her work, so you’ll be happy to see who stopped by to share a little bit of her life with us…
Name: Aki Takada
Business Name: oktak
Location: NY, NY
Website/Blog Links: http://www.oktak.com/; http://www.oktak.etsy.com; http://www.oktakmini.etsy.com
First of all, can you tell us what you create?
I make bags and pouches of all sizes and shapes, but I think I’m best known for my frame pouches.
I also recently opened a second shop on Etsy to sell items for babies & kids, such as bibs, book bags and smocks.
How do you begin your day? Any morning rituals?
I set my alarm clock to 6:50am. The first thing I do after I get up is turn on my laptop. I make breakfast for the whole family and pack lunches. I check e-mail titles between tasks, and if there’s something urgent, I read that. At 7:30am, I take my 4th grader to the bus stop. My husband and kindergartener leave at 8:15am, and I finally get to sit down in front of my laptop with a cup of tea. (I’m a tea person and drink lots of tea).
Do you do something crafty each day? Where does your inspiration come from?
I don’t think there’s ever a day that I don’t make anything. It’s my job, and I’m ashamed to admit I’m a bit of a workaholic – even on weekends, I usually spend at least a few hours working.
I’m amazed by people who can pinpoint the source of their inspiration. For me, it comes from random things unexpectedly, and I’m sure there are times when I don’t even realize that I’m being inspired by something – it can be subconscious. As far as I know though, I love looking at paintings and illustrations, photography, beautiful textiles, nature (flowers in particular), vintage kimonos, my kids’ drawings (they can come up with the most amazing color combinations and designs!), product packaging and architecture.
What’s your workspace like (organized)?
Let’s just say, organized chaos.
How many hours does your normal work day consist of?
Probably 6-7 hours. I have roughly 5 hours from the time my family go out the door until I pick up my daughter. I try to do as much work as possible during these 5 hours, and after the kids come home, I do little things while I do housework or care for the kids. For example, I’d list new items in my shop while my son does his homework on the kitchen table, or I’d cut up a few pieces of fabric while I wait for the water to boil.
In the evenings, after the kids have gone to bed, I have another 1-2 hours.
How do you end your day of crafty business? Any evening rituals?
At around 10:30pm, I try to force myself to stop (but don’t always succeed). When I do manage to stop, I sit down on the rug in front of the TV and stretch as I watch the news. Then I read the papers (yes, the morning papers). If I’m not worn out, I’ll take a book with me to bed.
What is your definition of a perfect day?
A day when I’m productive, able to cook a nice meal and enjoy time with my family. Dinner is important to me – I cook most evenings so my kids can eat yummy healthy food, but it’s also so I can use the gorgeous plates & bowls I’ve collected over the years. ;)
Thanks so much, Aki! Congratulations on Oktak Mini. We’re all looking forward to see what other creations will pop up in both the shops!
If you’re interested in being featured, just let me know. You can send me an email {liana@mixedplateblog.com} if you’d like to learn more.
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aloha! i’m Liana. this is my site. i am not a professional writer. i pretty much just write the way i talk. it’s fun meeting new online friends and introducing these amazing artists. i’ll do my best to keep you entertained.
I love these “Crafter’s Life” segments. I find them so inspiring as a new crafter preparing for my first etsy shop. You have a great little blog!
LOVE LOVE LOVE!
what cute little bags and things. I love these segments too! really great.
Pouches=love!!
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So happy to finally see Aki’s face!