Member of the Week: PANDA WITH COOKIE!!!

Live from the Panda Cave, it's Panda With Cookie!

Today we hear from Lisa (and Mr. Bran) of Panda With Cookie, everyone's favorite monster headquarters. I don't know about you, but my holidays would not have been the same without a few PWC monsters livening up the joint. Panda creations are of course fabulous the year round - and while the monsters are totally rad, there's so much more on offer. As Lisa says, "Mr. Bran and I are bringing you plush monsters, tote bags, paper garlands and more in an effort to brighten your day." And brighten they do! So what else can we learn from Panda Headquarters?

How did you choose the name of your shop, and how long have you been a member of Etsy?
People like pandas and people like cookies and so do I. I joined Etsy about a year and a half ago and hope to be around for a while.

Do you sell your items outside of Etsy, either online or in retail shops?
You can find us at various craft shows in Brooklyn and the NYC area. Just look for the panda banner and the pile of plush. I also occasionally show my art work at galleries in NYC and was featured in the Treemendous show this December at the Islip Art Museum.

What are your favorite foods and/or superpowers?
Able to eat giant cookies in a single bite.

Do you have any animal companions?
Mr. Bran, sidekick and friend.

Do you have any future plans for your shop?
I introduced magnets and monster pony earlier this year, but most likely won't have any more new products until later in the year. I am hoping that some big changes are coming soon.

When did you learn your craft, and how did you become interested in it?
I have always been crafty and really enjoy making things. I've been sewing for years and do a variety of other crafts such as metalsmithing, paper art and ceramics.

Why do you think it's important to buy handmade?
Support your community through handmade, local foods and local small businesses. It is so important to put your dollars back into the community and to shop from those who are a part of it.

Lisa's fine art endeavors can be viewed on her Artists Space profile. You can also follow the adventures of Panda with Cookie via the charming Panda With Cookie blog, or of course on Twitter.