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My Story
Hello, my name is Tammy, I am an artist. Raven Mountain specializes in handmade, wearable leather art. Growing up in the Rocky Mountains Mother Nature's beauty inspired me to follow my artistic calling. I was first introduced to fiber and textile art at the Kootenay School of the Arts in Nelson B.C. From there I created my first label, Rainbow Threads where I created custom made clothing. In 2008 I continued following my creative stream which led me to a passion for leathercraft. Using leather allows me to combine all my artistic talents: drawing, painting, sewing and 3D sculpture to create fun, stunning clothing accessories and costume pieces. A perfect passion!
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The genesis for Raven Mountain was 2 years ago and has not stopped growing – music festivals, craft faires, and Etsy have increasingly been successful. Raven Mountain's online presence has my leather art being shipped all over the world. Although it can be scary without a regular pay cheque my passion, motivation and discipline continues to drive me. Providing the highest quality products and customer service are a point of pride for me – I feel great about this company and in 2013 I want to take Raven Mountain to the next level. In order to do that I need your help to make it happen!
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Being an artist and having to work at “jobs” was inhibiting my creative drive and splitting my energies. Making the decision to follow my passion, my dreams has motivated me to ask for your help. Your support means that I can work full time creating beautiful leather art, that I can focus all my creative flow into Raven Mountain.
Goals for 2013~
- Increase the amount of fairs/shows that I will attend
- Get a full set-up for fairs/shows
- Build my existing inventory
- Increase my target market by creating a line of bags & wallets
- Expand my online clientel
- Start teaching moccasin making workshops
- Invest in needed tools & supplies
Where Will The Money Go
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Vending fees
- There are 2 spring shows in Edmonton that I want to take Raven Mountain to. The first is Make It. I just did their Christmas show and I did very well there. The second show is at the Butterdome. Both of these show receive over 10,000 people. I believe Raven Mountain will do awesome. Cost $500 each.
Sewing Machine
- Right now I have a light-medium weight machine. It is able to handle the applique but since I have started to use crepe rubber soles I've began to worry. My poor machine is struggling through the leather and crepe rubber. I am nervous that I will burn out my only machine and be left without! This is really the most important tool.Cost $600-$1,200 used.
Materials
- This goal is two parts. First I want to create a line of handbags and wallets. I feel this will widen my target market. I want to make 2-3 different styles of bags and 2-3 different styles of wallets. I will need milled veg-tanned tooling leather, and hardware, including rivets, snaps, buckles, and d-rings. Cost $520.
- Second I need to build my Moccasins inventory. I have 2 applique designs that I sell the most of, the trees and the wings. I want to have one of each of these designs in every size. I will need suede, crepe rubber and lace. Cost $780.
Vending Supplies
- Thank you Chuck & Jocelyn for lent me your vending tent for the last 2 years. Now it's time for me to get my own. Cost $350
- I have gotten by without a way to process debit or credit but people are starting to expect it now. Especially with some of my higher price point items. I can get a business account and a debit/credit card machine or get a smart phone with the app that accepts cards (the square) Either one costs the same monthly. Not sure if I'm keen to have a cell phone! Cost $150
- I need more gift bags and boxes. Also need more boot hangers. Cost $200
- A free standing mirror $100
Workshop Supplies
- I have held succesfull mask making workshops, and have been asked to host moccasins workshops. I have an exciting opportunity to host these workshops at the Black Star Gallery in Invermere. To facilitate a group of 6 I'll need leather scissors, hole punches and needles for everyone. Cost $200
Leather tools
- There are a few leather working tools that will make my life a lot easier and have been on my want/need list for a while now. A new high quality hole punching board, and a lace cutter. Right now I do all my fringe cutting by hand, and would love to make it easier. I have been dreaming of getting a good quality wood burner to do the pyrography imagery. The one I have doesn't hold it's heat. Which makes the lines uneven and slow.
Cost $400
Business Expenses and Materials
- Wow if I achieve $5000+ it will go into the many business expenses. Which include website host fees, domain fees online marketing, business cards ect. Then I will stock up on materials. Which include suede, oil tanned leather, crepe rubber, lace, sinew, contact cement, needles, shock cord, toggles, labels and much more. Cost endless!
What You Get
For the last 4 weeks of my campaign I will be giving away a different prize each week. When you donate and collect a perk your name will be entered into the draw. Names will be pulled every Sunday night.
This weeks draw will be for this messenger bag. With lots of pockets and adjustable straps. Bag measures 11-3/4" x 9-1/4" x 2"
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I truly believe that what goes around comes around, so that is my first universal gift back to you, Karma! $15
I am very grateful for your donations and am willing to work for your kindness.
When you donate $30 I will mail you a blank greeting card & envelope. On this card is a photo of my tooled leather art. Inside, separately, is a thank you note from me.
When you donate $50 I will mail you a soft leather bracelet. These bracelets are made discontinued furnisher swatches. They come in 3 sizes and male or female colors. They close with 2 pearl snaps, either white or black.
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When you donate $120 I will mail you a soft leather billfold. These wallets are also made from discontinued furnisher swatches. They hold bills and have 2 pockets for cards. They close with 2 snaps.
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If you are so kind to donate $1,000 I will work with you to design your own pair of moccasins or mukluks.
The Impact
Your support means I can work full time with Raven Mountain.
Your support means I can make a living wage from my creativity.
Your support will allow me to keep working from home.
Your support means that I am able to work when I am most inspired, at night!!!!!!!!
Your support means that I can live healthy as a supported artist. As a healthy artist I am able to be a creative productive part of my community and our world.
Your support will allow me to share my art with the world.
Your support means I can keep creating beautiful things.
Your support means I can start paying off my credit card, get glasses and start saving money.
Other Ways You Can Help
I understand that not everybody is capable of making a monetary contribution to my campaign. However, you can still help Raven Mounatin by sharing my story with your friends and family via word of mouth or through social media networks like Facebook and Twitter. Simply use the Indiegogo share buttons and help spread the word.
I appreciate your support and thank you for your time ♥