Monday, November 24, 2008

I'm finally spilling the beans about a hush hush project . . . a book publisher came calling and I answered!

I have been sitting on this info for a very long time, but I now feel like it is safe to share with my devoted readers. Back in July, a publisher emailed me about authoring a felting book for kids. At first, I was a little skeptical because how often does a reputable publisher contact you about doing a book just out of the blue. Having worked in the arts and crafts world of publishing as a graphic designer, I know that it is usually the other way around where the crafter has to send out many query letters and photos to get noticed by a publisher. After a bit of chit chat back and forth with the publisher, I realized that indeed it was the real deal - a bona fide professional arts and crafts publishing company was interested in my work!

There's been a lot happen since July and those initial emails to the publisher. There's been much more communication with the publishing company and on this past Thursday, my birthday, I finally had a book contract in hand to author the felting publication for kids. What a terrific birthday gift!! It is actually going to be the second book in the series of books with the first book having been all about embroidery. This book will have a mix of craft felt and traditional felt projects as well as some spectacular illustrations by a wonderful professional illustrator - not me, I'm just doing most of the project instructions to be included which is more than enough work for me to handle.

I know that the details are a little vague right now, but as the publishing date gets closer, I will share more of the specifics. (After all, I have to keep you in suspense for you to keep coming back for more right?) I also feel that with publishing you just never know - projects get put off and canceled all the time so I am optimistically cautious until I actually see a copy on the local bookstore's shelf or one in my mailbox from the publisher. For now, just know that if I'm absent a bit here and there, I am diligently working on this book project (plus my online sales, plus my teaching day job, plus upcoming craft shows, plus . . . well you get the idea!). And, as time allows and I know more, I'll be popping back in with more info about the book project. In the mean time, I'll do my best to post regularly about other felting news and indie business tips.

On top of this great little book project that I'm working on, I'm also scrambling to get ready for the big No Coast Craft-o-rama show in Minneapolis on December 5th and 6th. (I am literally felting like a mad crazy woman with wool flying and water soaking my pants up to my knees!) If you live in that area, please mark your calendar to stop by and say "hello!" The two day event features a stellar line up of handmade artists and crafters - the ideal place to buy holiday gifts! There will be a lot of new items there to see and buy as well as many that I have listed in my Etsy shop.

9 comments:

  1. Wow!!! Congratulations, that is so fantastic! I wish you the all the best as you work on your project and hope you sell a million copies! :o)
    Smiles, Karen

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  2. That's absolutely fantastic! well done .... that's so exciting :)

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  3. How exciting! Congratulations! I'm not a felter, but now I'm very curious about this book. I want it! :D

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  4. What terrific news you've shared with us, your fans!!! YAY!!!!!! I'm doing a New Mexican Happy Dance for you :D What a great way to (perhaps) launch that workshop you and your husband were discussing! Making a name for yourself! Be proud! Be happy! Get busy!

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  5. Congratulations! Maybe I'll see you at No Coast- I plan to attend.

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  6. Congratulations! That is super exciting!

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  7. I just came across your blog...can't believe I didn't find it sooner! Congratulations and I can't wait to see the books. Also, I just went back and read your very informative articles. Great information and advice!

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  8. Fabulous!! So proud of you :D

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