Talk Shop is the series where we interview independent store owners from across the country, to get their inside take on running an independent business that supports the handmade community.

This week, Kristen Rask, owner of the quirky and delightful Schmancy Toys, gives us a glimpse into her Seattle toy shop that has been showcasing the latest vinyl collectibles and out-of-this-world handmade plush goodies since 2004.

Schmancy Toys receives rave reviews from toy enthusiasts, parents, indie crafters, and Seattle locals for it’s collection of all toys cute, goofy, oddball, and everything in between.  There’s lots of things to squish, poke, hug and love at this shop including 2-headed cloth deer made by Sara Lanzillotta, Fantastic Planet’s gnome finger puppets, and Kid Robot keychains.

Being a true crafter at heart, Rask’s reign as indie toy queen didn’t stop at Schmancy. In 2005, she launched the hit handmade fair, Plush You! at her Seattle shop. 3 years later, Rask expanded her plush empire by publishing a how-to book, and curating a sister Plush You!, at the Double Punch gallery in San Francisco.

Everyone needs a little toy monster and bit of plushy goodness in their life.  Get yours in Seattle, at Schmancy Toys.

Tell us what Schmancy is all about:
Schmancy started selling primarily vinyl toys.  Being that I am a crafter and enjoy things handmade I began selling more handmade plush toys to keep with the toy theme.  I started a show called Plush You! in 2005 to showcase plush artists from around the world.  It is an annual show now and I came out with a book for it in October of 2008.

Do you have any sort of background in crafting or the arts?
I have always made crafts but did not go to school for art.  I have an Associates in Business and a Bachelors Degree in Sociology.

How does your business support independent artists and crafters and/or the handmade community? I am very lucky to live in Seattle.  There is a strong movement to buy local in my community and I have very loyal customers.

How can local designers and crafters get involved with Schmancy?
I am always happy to look at what folks make.  People just need to send me an email with photos of their work and price ranges.  If it fits in to my store and I have the room I go from there.

Any advice for those interested in opening up their own boutique?
A business plan would be very smart.  Have a focus.  I go into a lot of stores that just seem all over the place and it confuses people.  Get a bookkeeper at the beginning.  It is hard to shell out so much money and also get someone to help with your books but it will save you so much time in the end!  Talk to other owners and build a community.  It’s a hard thing to do and you will greatly appreciate the support and advice from people who have been doing this for awhile.

Any exciting upcoming events or sales going on at Schmancy?
I am going to NYC next week for an embroidery show I curated at Gallery Hanahou called Forget Me-Not (opens Feb. 6th)  We have a ton of great events this year planned so please look at our website often!

Schmancy Toys is located at 1932 Second Avenue, Seattle, Washington, WA 98101.

Check out Schmancy Toys online at schmancytoys.com. Find out more about Plush You! at plushyou.blogspot.com.

If you own a boutique, gallery or other place of business that supports the indie craft community, and want it featured in Talk Shop, email hellocraftinfo@gmail.com with Talk Shop in the subject line.