Meet Shara Danziger of Confections by Shara's Paperie - Featured Artist

One thing about me is that I like to see my name in printed on something.  Sounds rather vain, but with my name, it's hard to find anything that I can use, especially when it comes to stationery products.  However with technology today and some creative vision, we now have the option to get our name printed on practically anything.

With that being said, meet Shara Danzinger, the creative force behind Confections by Shara's Paperie. A fellow member of The Artisan Group,  Personalization is Shara's middle name... well not really, but if you want your name on something, Shara is the gal to go to.  From your stationery (such as notepads, labels, invitations) all the way to some really neat gift ideas (drink coasters, plates, pillow cases, IPad cases), Shara's shop is a place to check out.

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
I am a graphic designer and always have been…I just didn’t know what it was called when I was a kid. I was always in love with color, fonts, patterns and layouts.

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
I don’t remember the first design that I ever did, though I think my mom does! The first product that I designed was very exciting and I did that when I was about 9 and got my hands on paint your own pottery. Spent what seemed like forever choosing the colors and the pattern.

Personalized IPhone Case

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
My process really can be described as just jumping in with both feet. My best work is done when I pick up the pencil or start on the computer and go. When I attempt to be organized and methodical with my designs I am never as happy with the end result.

When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?
 My work now is much more complex and sophisticated then when I started my company about 7.5 years ago. As the company has grown my skills have grown with it which has been a great experience. Though I have to admit that now I cringe at some of the early stuff.

Personalized Pillow Case

What inspires you creatively?
I get inspired by just about anything. That sounds silly, but if I see a pretty color in a dress my mind will start whirling where I can use that color. If I happen to come across some old wallpaper with an intricate pattern that is a great starting point for a new pattern for me. Basically the world around me is full of everything that inspires me; color, pattern, texture so it is just a matter of looking.

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work? 
My goals around my work are centered around growing the company. It has been very exciting to be in a position to find new products and then create designs and patterns to put on them.

 Children's Invitations

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why? 
My favorite artist has always been Monet. I remember going to the museum with my grandmother when I was a child and her introducing me to his work. While I am a graphic designer, not a painter, his work is just so beautiful that I can always find something new and thrilling when I look at it.

What do you do in your spare time?
I admit that spare time is hard to come by between the business, the kids and the husband. But I do love to just hang out with my kids and the husband and just have family down time.

Personalized Address Labels

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
All my work is sold through my online website at www.shopconfections.com

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side? 
This question depends on the week! We also do many custom projects for clients which I love so that takes up creative time. On a “regular” week I would say it is about 40% creative and 50% business.

Personalized Melamine Plates

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
Of course love what you do and be ready to devote everything to it. This is not something that you can commit to fully if you would rather be doing something else.

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Thank you so much Shara!  Be sure to visit Shara at these sites:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter

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