Ecoleeko

Name: Sue Lappan
Shop Name: Ecoleeko
Shop Link: www.ecoleeko.com and www.ecoleeko.etsy.com
Location: Upstate New York
Ships To: I ship Everywhere..Please Contact me for international shipping costs.

What materials do you use for your ECO friendly products?

Ecoleeko uses only Certified Organic Cotton Fabrics, Hemp Blends and Bamboo Fleece. Each product is sewn with only Organic cotton thread and filled with all natural fillings, such as kapok fiber and buckwheat hulls. I hand dye and print all my fabrics as well.


Why did you decide to make ECO friendly products?

It started when I was in college and the idea stayed with me until now. I wanted originally to work with hemp fabric and started playing with the fabric. I majored in textile design and learned all about how the fibers and fabrics we often use are harmful for the environment. I recently was finally able to devote myself to this idea and started Ecoleeko. I make plush dolls, bath mittens and soft baby rattles. I hope to also add more things to the Ecoleeko line next year.

What inspires you?

Hmm..With Ecoleeko it would now be different animals, insects, color combinations I find, eco fabrics, that's where I start..Me Personally, it could be anything, a magazine photo, a swatch of fabric, a fallen leaf, Something I read..It goes on and on!

How long have you had your shop on Etsy?

I've been on Etsy since I guess 2005. It's a wonderful way to sell your wares along with make great connections. The Ecoleeko shop is fairly new, and has only been there since July 2008.



Is this a job for you or a hobby?

It's a job now I can proudly say. It was always a hobby on the side before this year and I always wanted to dedicate myself totally to making things. It was hard before to dedicate full time to it while working a full time job but now I am fortunately able to do so.

How did you get into your craft?

I always made things But I guess I got into it when I first starting sewing in High school, making my clothes. I always sewed, making things, gifts, what ever I could think of..I went to Art School then transferred to get a degree in Textiles...I graduated and did decorative painting for a while while I started making Art Quilts and Art Dolls, getting them published and decided to start my own business with Eco fabrics and materials. I guess it just progressed.



Do you have any advice for fellow Etsy shop owners?

I would say first, monitor your shop on a regular basis, the best way I have found was to post something everyday or every couple of days to keep your shop recent. It's amazing how many things are posted everyday. Have good pictures and explain your products well.. Also, use your tags wisely, make sure they all relate to your product and use them all up and Be open to connections you can make, like joining Etsy groups or starting your own. You can meet a lot of supportive artisans trying to do the same as well.

Anything else you would like to add?

Thank you Hyla for the interview! Anyone interested in more information on my materials or products, please visit my website www.ecoleeko.com