Etsy Crafter

We are sharing mini profiles of local crafters who have Etsy shops.

Karen LeRose of North Raleigh made this cunning knitter soap -- cute! She sells it at her shop.

Here are five things to know about Karen:

1. I grew up in upstate New York. From the time I was in elementary school, I wanted to live in North Carolina. I can’t remember how that came about, but it stayed with me. When I graduated from college, I just packed up my car and moved. I currently live in Raleigh with my husband and our cat.

2. I made my first bar of soap about 6 years ago. I began by making soap for friends and family, and I also sold at local craft fairs during the holidays.

3. My soaps are made from vegetable-based oils, such as olive, coconut, and palm. All of my soaps contain glycerin. Glycerin is a key factor in keeping skin soft and healthy. Glycerin soap is especially good for sensitive and delicate skin, and for children.

4. A co-worker told me about Etsy and a whole new world was opened up to me. I am so impressed with the site. Etsy is my main creative outlet. There are so many amazing people selling great handmade items on Etsy. Not only do I sell my soaps on the site, but I buy lots of great handmade items as well. I love to buy jewelry and artwork, as well as artisan teas and pottery.

5. I am so passionate about my little soap business. It brings so much to my life. The connections I have made with people through my soap is by far my favorite part. I have made so many new friends locally, and all over the world. I plan on keeping the fun going for many years to come!