Sunday, September 28, 2008

An Interview with McCoy Toys

This week's featured artists are John and Emily of McCoyToys http://mccoytoys.etsy.com/. They handcraft wooden toys, games and puzzles. Hmm, Christmas gift ideas anyone?!
Is there a story behind your shop name?
Our business name is The Real McCoy - so etsy store became McCoyToys - our last name is McCoy - & the real mccoy means authentic - we felt it was appropriate for our wood toys, games, puzzles etc.

What made you decide to open your own shop?
We heard about etsy from April of mooremagnets. Explore the site & decided to give it a try. We are passionate about making toys & try to agree on a reasonable price in order for more children to enjoy them.

What is your favorite material to use? Wood

Talk briefly about your favorite item:
We have several items that we have not listed on etsy - our folk toys are probably our favorites - it is hard to pick one. The limber jack, jacob's ladder & of course the stack & roll pull toy.

What are your creative inspirations?
Friends, family & customers are frequently giving us ideas or making suggestions on how to improve an item. We listen! John loves to work with wood & create...I (Emily) love to add "character" to our toys & details that are eye catching.

Are you a crafter full time or part time?
Full time (since retirement). When we began we were both working full time - & the toys were a "stress release". We decided to turn it into a full time profession.

Who encourages you to create? Our family, friends, & other crafters.

Do you have any advice for other shop owners?
We have been on etsy less than a month - we are learning patience, & would encourage others to do the same.

2 comments:

SocoGirlie said...

Great interview!

Anonymous said...

These are the nicest people-ment them at the Matthews craft show.
The toys are great!