Etsy Shop Spotlight: The "Pay It Forward" Shop
Our very first Etsy Fellow Shop Spotlight is here! and it is a VERY special one, as i got to interview Levi from the PIF Shop over at ETSY! Enjoy!
As I was browsing through the ETSY shops one day, I came across this little gem, and HAD to tell you all about it! I contacted the shop owner, and he graciously agreed to an interview. I think this idea is absolutely amazing!! It’s the PIFS shop at ETSY, a “Pay It Forward Shop,” where you pay nothing but the listing fee, plus shipping.. then “pay it forwad” by listing a PIF item in your own ETSY shop (if you’re a fellow seller), or by moving the blessing forward in some way (if your a customer). The concept is a beautiful one, and after I make my purchase from PIFS, you’ll see a few “PIF” items listed in our own Fullearths, Etc. Shop! ln the meantime, Please head on over to the PIFS, and start the ball rolling!
§ can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
My name is Levi and I’ve been taking care of my disabled mother since 1993. I’m 27 years old with a degree in interior design and a second degree in hospitality management “my personal favorite”, which has proven handy when dealing with everyone I know or meet. I believe that interpersonal communication is severely lacking in our world and that’s why most people are unhappy or at most temporarily displeased with situations concerning others.
§ can you explain the concept of your shop? what is PIFS?
PIFS “ The Pay It Forward Shop” is a wonderful place where you basically pay for the listing fee of an item ($0.20) plus the low shipping and handling fee ( usually $2.80 or less) and then give the item away to someone who deserves it or by do something nice for another. We do not charge for the supplies used to make the item or the time spent producing them because Paying It Forward essentially means the profit made from an item is not of monetary value.
§ when and how did you come about the PIFS concept?
just ONE of the MANY beautiful items available over at the "Pay It Forward" Shop!
I believe my interest was sparked by two factors. The first being my moms’ devastating mental illness “schizophrenia” and the second factor stemming from her psychiatrist that recommended us getting involved in some activity that would allow creative thinking and positive thought. I always knew that art was considered therapeutic and past studies shown that mental impairments had improved the livelihood of those living with disabilities after giving them the proper tools necessary to create works of art. We decided to create a place where others could see a story that might affect them in a positive light or inform them that others out there do not need to feel imprisoned in their own body. In short, our shop is not only about mother and son therapy but awareness, love, and to empower everyone to strive for a better existence.
§ how long has your shop been open? and how has it been received by the etsy community?
We opened PIFS the following day after my mother’s birthday on Feb 19, 2009 so we are currently 6 months new. I had no idea how the shop would go over but the beautiful people of Etsy made it a smash right from the get go. Mom and I immediately began getting messages from other people with their personal stories, congratulations, and inquiries about how we operate and if we would accept donations from other Artists who wanted to make a difference in the community. PIFS currently has over 100 Artist who donate or have donated since our launch. The community has been overwhelmingly supportive. I will say that our success is owed to our fellow artist and clients because without them, we just couldn’t continue to operate as successfully as we have.
§ tell me about the art you create for your shop?
Most of the art created is made by my disabled mother who uses art as part of her therapy. We also have many artists who donate items because they support the Pay It Forward Movement. Our signature item is the Resin Puzzle Pendant that was inspired by my mom’s illness but we have so much more. If you’re seeking earrings, necklaces, or magnets then look no further. In addition to our creations, supporters send in various items that we don’t make so you never really know what to expect. I will say that all items are quality handmade, inspected before sale, and all made from love.
§ how can we help? what things can we do to continue pushing progress of the PIF shop?
I believe that PIFS will be around for a very long time given that we continue to have the support of our fellow artists and clients. There are many ways to help the Pay It Forward Movement such as sending us an email or informing your own friends and family. In all honesty, we don’t ask for much and we have never asked for any donation. All we need is excellent communication, stories to share, and a place to make genuine friends. PIFS is that place because it’s not just a shop “It’s a home”.
