1932 2nd Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101-1102
(206) 728-8008
Kristen Rask, owner of Schmancy Toys spoke with us on a cold spring evening at Joe Bar on Capitol Hill
Mintika: When did Schmancy begin its journey?
Kristen Rask: 2004
Mintika: What inspired you to open Schmancy?
KR: I had always wanted to own my own store but after working for several small business owners, I thought that it sounded too scary, but then the stars aligned and Schmancy was born, I haven’t looked back since.
Mintika: What have been some obstacles on your rise to success?
KR: Taxes are no fun. Not having a predictable income and the doubts that creep in when sales are scant.
Mintika: Share with us some of your retail hell experiences
KR: The granny that I busted trying to steal a plush poop toy. The lady that tried to eat zipper pulls that kinda looked like berries. The guy that didn’t have pants on, just some boxers and no shoes. The guy that tried to do a cash scam, he handed me a 20 and asked for 2 tens when I handed him the 2 tens he slipped one down his sleeve and said “No, I said two, baby” and I said “No, actually I did give you two” and stared back at him my eyes saying “I am not going to back down so you might as well just leave”.
Mintika: What’s your favorite toy right now?
KR: The BFF’s for Vinyl and for plush Devout Dolls
Mintika: You recently went to the UK how was that?
KR: Ireland is fantastic and beautiful there are sheep, cows, horses and beer what’s not to like.
Mintika: You’ve written a few craft books, are you coming out with a new one soon?
KR: Yes, one that is called Yummy Crochet coming out with Barnes and Noble it’s essentially a follow up to my other book Creature Crochet which is currently in it’s second reprint.
Books
Plush You!: Lovable Misfit Toys to Sew and Stuff
Button and Stitch: Supercute Ways to Use Your Button Stash
Mintika: You are actively involved in Urban Craft Uprising what is your role there?
KR: I am the President, responsible for marketing, PR, sponsorship and vendor relations. It’s the largest indie craft show in Seattle and we are really excited about the new website!
How do you think small businesses help the economy?
They provide a space for local artists and designers to sell their creations. And they provide and alternative to mass-produced crap.
Thanks Kristen, and we’ll see you at Schmancy!
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