Conversations with Karrisa Dean

Hi Karisa, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story might be a little unusual, but I can explain! I was roughly six months pregnant, and unfortunately, my husband needed to travel for work for weeks at a time. This left me bored and with endless opportunities to the internet. One thing led to another and I had joined Tumbler Creator groups, purchased a tumbler turner, 25+ containers of glitter and everything else needed to become a tumbler creator. My husband came home and all I could say was, “I can explain.” I spent almost two years perfecting my custom tumblers, but unfortunately, I became allergic/intolerant to epoxy. I then bought a laser cutter and decided that my love for crafting wouldnt end. I currently create beautiful custom pieces for home decor, seasonal decor, and I also create silicone molds for resin artists.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I wish I could say this has been a smooth road. Unfortunately, when you decide to open a small business, you are starting from scratch. Trying to convince your audience that your items are worth the price tag isn’t always the easiest. When COVID hit, I panicked; do I get back into custom tumblers? Do I sell everything that I own for crafting to pay back my debt? Thankfully, I stuck through it, and I am more successful now than I was before COVID. I have found myself to be extremely resilient with all obstacles that have come up so far.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My current portfolio of work may seem like a hodgepodge. I create custom front door decor. Because it is the holiday season, I have ramped up on ornaments, tiered tray decor, table and mantle decor and cutting boards. I also hand pour silicone molds, which has taken time to perfect. These are a huge hit for resin artists that like to create custom keychains, pop sockets, and badge reels for our essential employees. While it may seem like a lot, I truly put my love and passion for crafting into each and every piece I create.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
My husband makes fun of me, BUT I love to listen/watch mindless TV. The bachelorette, Love island, Keeping Up with The Kardashians.

Pricing:

• Home Decor ranges from $15-$65
• Seasonal Home Decor ranges from $25-$65

Contact Info:

• Address: 1930 W Mine Trail Phoenix, AZ 85085
• Email: kdhandmadedesigns@gmail.com
• Website: kdhandmadedesigns.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kdhmdesigns/?fbclid=IwAR11TM2kcJ-dVtKjRyPYq5VBcJDj5oeczlRxwatd1xIhZY9pgGIw7AtGkX8
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kdhmdesigns
• Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/KDHMDesigns