Day 18: Communication Is Key

365 Days Of My Life As A Studio Artist: Day 18

Day 17 Donations: $19.72584

Donations Running Total: $26.37563

Day 18 Growth Idea: Better Communication Yesterday a customer came in to pick up a repair that wasn't finished yet. I try not to call anybody and tell them to come in until I know for sure their project is done. We had trouble with the sandblasting equipment that I couldn't predict. It took us about half a day - buying a new gun, nozzles, connectors, running to Tractor Supply and Tecumseh Plywood. With a detour to McDonald's for a Mocha! I really think my customer misunderstood, but I have to let my employees know to tell customers we will call them before they come in to pick up their glass. I told her I would deliver it to her when it's done so she doesn't have to make an extra trip. It was my mistake.

My History: I can't remember all of the details, but it seemed each time I moved I was pregnant with another child. So, that made me anxious to find a final place! But this second story studio worked really well for a while. I hired somebody to help me solder since I couldn't do it while pregnant. That brought on extra expenses that I didn't expect to have this early in the game. But, all along I knew this stage of my business was going to include a lot of growth and education. The studio was large enough that I could bring my children with me. I had a large area for them to play. During classes, I always had a baby sitter so I could give my students devoted attention. There was a young girl who would come into my studio and loved taking the boys for walks. I still see her sometimes today.

Today's Business: Besides following up on this blog and going to the bank, not much is happening today. My son is in his hockey tournament in Lansing. They are still a priority. I am going to try to fit in some time on my log furniture web site. We have almost all products in the "back end" but need to get them where customers can see them.

Pat Deere

LINKS: The Log Furniture Division

The Log Furniture Division

While visiting my studio be sure to lake a look at our new log furniture line. My studio features many of the products we carry and our brochures show the full product line. To give this area of my business a jump start, I am offering 20% discounts and no shipping during January. This furniture, although beautiful in the catalogue, has to been seen to appreciate the quality of each piece. I am currently designing glass inserts for the log coffee table and one of a kind lamp shades for the table and floor lamps. Come by and take a sneak peak!

The rocker shown here, has to be one of the most comfortable rockers I have ever sat in. And, I am a rocking chair collector. Whether you are a large person or a child, your body fits like a glove and it has a very smooth motion. I do have one of the rockers available for viewing if you would like to try it out before you order your own. Like my custom glass work, the fabric for your furniture is chosen to fit your needs from a large selection of designs and textures.

Delivery goes directly to you from the manufacturer and I have found them to not only be quality builders, but very competent business professionals as well. You will find the experience of purchasing log furniture very enjoyable!

Our web site is still in the process of being built for this furniture, but a full product brochure can be mailed to you by contacting Pictures In Glass through our web site or by calling 517 431-2271.