VET Member of the Week: Kala of Vegancraftastic!

Kala of Vegancraftastic has been brightening the face of the Vegan Etsy Team for over a year now. Her whimsical yet useful creations are sure to bring a smile to the faces of knitters, crafters, and just about anyone who enjoys a snappy button...

What kinds of items do you sell in your shop, and what inspired you to start creating them?

The main focus of my shop is fun and cute accessories for crafters, especially knitters. I think knitting, crocheting, sewing, and all kinds of crafting is more fun with whimsical tools and project bags!

What are some of your favorite things about Etsy?

My favorite thing about Etsy is that, for the most part, it's a community of artists trying to make a living doing what they love: creating. I love supporting other Etsy artists, especially members of the Vegan Etsy team.

How long have you been vegan, and what made you go vegan?

I've been vegan for about nine years now. I made the change when I started thinking about and researching where my food was coming from. Once I really opened my eyes and realized the cruelty, pain, and harm that goes along with an omnivore diet, I knew that vegan was the way to go! I'm very lucky that my husband is also vegan (and was vegan well before we even met).

What are your favorite foods?

I have a SERIOUS sweet tooth, so my faves are cookies, cupcakes, chocolate... but on the savory side I love really good Mexican food.

What kinds of hobbies and interests do you have?

I'm a big time knitter (as you could tell from my yarn stash!) and I also crochet, sew, and embroider... I love all sorts of arts and crafts; I just love creating.

Do you have any animal companions?

I wish! We can't have any animal companions in our wee apartment, but we hope that in our next place we can finally get a doggie to love and spoil rotten.

Why do you think it's important to buy handmade?

I think it's crucial to buy handmade when you can. You not only support individual artists, but many Etsy sellers (like me) buy supplies from local independent stores that can use all the support they can get.