Check Out Caroline Eimer’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Caroline Eimer.

Hi Caroline, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
I have been passionate about art my whole life, so getting to pursue Art Education at the University of Arizona was an incredible experience where I strengthened my skills and transitioned into working as an artist for my career. Since graduating, I have done art teaching in a local school and at various museums/community organizations. In September 2022, I launched my business Handcrafted by Care, where my interest in sustainability, fashion, and art came together. My business aims to promote kindness towards each other and our planet through my colorful, hand-painted designs and the sustainable base of my business. Since then, Handcrafted by Care has blossomed into me painting second-hand fashion, leading eco-friendly art classes around Tucson, and creating dozens of custom pieces for people around the country.

Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Being an entrepreneur brings a new daily adventure; the biggest challenge has been learning the ropes of starting my own business. My background is in art and education, so the business elements can sometimes be overwhelming. Still, thanks to the networking opportunities in Arizona and resources for startup businesses, it has been much more user-friendly than anticipated. I am thankful for Arizona’s strong community of makers and entrepreneurs and the love and support I have from so many customers and admirers of my work thus far.

Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I upcycle second-hand fashion, giving things a new life through creative design. I already use fashion as the base for my designs, ranging from hats to purses to denim shirts. Some of my signature designs are my Arizona sunset purses and Polaroid hats. Taking a plain gray purse that has been sitting in someone’s closet or at a second-hand shop for months or years and turning it into a one-of-a-kind piece with some PURSEnality is very exciting to me, and I am thankful that so many others agree! I also specialize in doing custom designs. In some of my custom pieces, I have painted people’s precious vacation memories, the sheet music to their favorite song, a meaningful quote, or their favorite TV show character. I connect with people for custom pieces via Instagram or my website. What sets me apart from others is that each piece is 100% unique; no two purses or hats will ever be the same. When you support my business, you shop second-hand and support a local artist in one purchase. My signature events are Vinyl Record Paint & Sips, in which I lead a group in painting a design on old vinyl records. The goal of my events is for people to practice self-care and relax while sipping on some tea and painting.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I am a member of the Forvilla project, a new app that spotlights local artisans and events. It is a great way to learn about new businesses and shop small!

Contact Info:

• Website: handcraftedbycare.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/handcraftedbycare/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@handcraftedbycare
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/handcraftedbycare/