Betsy Baker - Stonehouse Studio
Every Sunday @ the South End Open Market
How long have you been making polymer jewelry for, before that were you working with more traditional materials?
I’ve been working in polymer for about 2 years now. I got my start, as many jewelers do, by stringing stone and silver beads.
How did you first hear about using polymer clay?
I was looking for jewelry I could create, rather than just assemble. I stumbled upon polymer clay when researching PMC (silver in clay form). But PMC equipment is pricey, so when I read that you only need a home oven and pasta machine to get started in polymer, I decided to give it a try. I was immediately hooked. I’ve been working with polymer almost every day since, and it never gets old.
Polymer is a relatively new medium, having only been used as an artistic material since the 80’s. The polymer community is incredibly innovative and generous with their knowledge and techniques. I’ve studied with polymer masters Kathleen Dustin, Judy Kuskin, Maggie Maggio, Louise Fischer Cozzi, SL Savarick and Dan Cormier. These names may not mean anything to the average person, but Google them sometime if you want to see just how good polymer can be.
What inspires you?
If I had to pick one thing, I’d say color. I grew up in Mexico and Latin America, so I’ve always been surrounded by color. Nothing can convey a mood, a nuance or and idea quicker or better than color. I’ve always had an intuitive color sense, but it wasn’t until I took Maggie Maggio’s color workshop that I fully understood the language of color. It took my work to a whole new level. I recently returned from the Yucatan and put that color knowledge to use by capturing the essence of the Yucatan in a series of polymer pendants (photo below)
Do you work at home, or in a studio?
Both. I’m lucky to have a dedicated studio right in my house.
Do you have another job?
I currently work a few hours a week at the Joy of Old a vintage and gift shop in Charlestown. I left my corporate job at an advertising agency a couple of years ago to follow my dream and become a full time studio artist.
How did you first hear about the South End Open Market, and what made you decide to sell with us?
I’m an old-timer. I go way back to the first year of the market – five years ago, I think. I read about it somewhere and thought that it was a great idea for Boston. I visited the market, loved it and signed on immediately.
What do you like about selling at the Market?
I love the artist/customer interaction. Everybody loves compliments, right? It’s also great for market research – it’s very informative for me to see how folks react to different designs. I also like the sophisticated, urban clientele - a good fit with my jewelry.
Do you have a selling strategy when you’re selling outdoors?
Booth set-up is really important. The booth doesn’t have to be as fancy as an indoor show, but you do have to have a consistent look to your displays. Customers need to be able to move around and see your product. Make use of vertical space and try to display your products at eye level. Don’t put out too many items - less is more.
Always say hello to the customer, but let them make the next move. Some will chat, some like to be left alone. I often walk out of my booth if I feel a customer needs space.
Do you have any funny stories or moments that you would like to share with us about the Markets?
I’m rather famous at the SEOM – I’m that crazy vendor that comes in a taxi. Yep, EZ-up, tables, displays, bins, all in a taxi.
Are there any “must haves” that you bring along that you can’t do without when selling?
My credit card terminal (no one in the South End ever seems to have any cash on them), water, sunscreen and a positive attitude.
What piece of advice would you give to new vendors considering the leap into selling outdoor at the Markets? Do you have some quick tips or tricks that you have learned over time you would be willing to share?
Start small. Sharing space with an experienced vendor is probably the best way to learn how to sell at outdoor markets. Give some thought to your displays and practice setting up ahead of time. Be creative – you don’t have to spend a lot of money on your booth. Most vendors are more than willing to share booth tricks with newbies. Don’t give up if you have a bad sales day - it happens. Oh, and don’t forget those tent weights!!
