Have you ever wondered what the life of an indie designer is like? Let this month's spotlight on Tara Smith show you what life is like behind-the-scenes at Revival Ink!

How did you get started with your company? When I was in college, I started an eco-friendly clothing company for my Bachelors of Fine Art Senior Thesis Project. I launched my business at the BFA show. That company is now Revival Ink.

What is the best thing about what you do? I get to be creative! The best feeling in the world is when I see someone on the street wearing one of my designs. Or, when they stop by my booth at a festival, just to tell me their story about how they got one of my items, and how much they love it. That always reminds me why I do what I do.

What's the hardest? Hands down, balancing my books is the hardest. I am not very good with numbers, but I can't afford an accountant yet. I use Quick Books software, and I'm still wondering what happened to the quick part.

What is the most exotic location you have sent an order to? I sent a box of tees to an orphanage in Africa. They were paid for by a guy in New York. I was so very happy to fill that order.

What is the craziest thing you've done in the name of craft? Driven 10 miles to buy craft supplies at the only nearby 24-hour Walmart

If you were a crafty superhero, what would your super powers be? If I could draw all the creative images in my head directly on to anything I like, and It stayed there permanently.

What was your worst fashion faux pas? Hot pink leopard print pants. I wore a pair in high school all the time, and now I'm like what was I thinking?

What are the must-have items you would not be able to live without if you were stranded on a desert island? Paint, chocolate, and music.

Were you a crafty kid? If so, what did you make? jewelry, and puff painted shirts.

What kind of music do you craft to? I love hard rock, fast, heavy, and angry! My favorites are Nine Inch Nails, Marilyn Manson, And the White Stripes

What does your crafty workspace look like? My basement. It's messy, dark and cool in the summer. Everything has ink drips on it, and that's the way I like it.

What was your latest great indie purchase? An altered blazer by Jenna Rose. It has lace, patches, buttons, and a hood sewn on it. I love it!

Any other crafty items coming up in the future? I want to start experimenting with sublimation printing soon.

Is there anything else you want to share about your business? I think its very important to carry clothing that fits people of all sizes. Most of my items come in extra small to 2XL. I also do everything I can to be eco-friendly, you can find out more about that at my website.

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Tags:apparel, clothing, hoodies, kids, Revival Ink, tees, women's

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