Meet the Maker: Abby Orsow of Prospect Goods
Summer is here, and it’s time to party! So, it’s only fitting that Abby Orsow is next up in our Meet the Maker series. She’s the founder of Prospect Goods and she’s here to kick your next bash up a notch. How? Abby makes multi-colored, fancy piñatas… and we can’t get enough of them!
Luckily, you can now snag exclusive piñatas (and DIY piñata kits) from Prospect Goods in the Brit + Co. Shop! Did we mention that you get $10 off your first order? Read on as Abby fills us in on her sources of inspiration, her advice for other makers, and more!
First things first, tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.
I’ve always liked to make things. After college, I worked a bunch of random jobs but never could get anything I loved to stick. When I would go home from work, I would write songs, sew quilts, take pictures, write, or paint… it’s just a part of me, to make.
Why did you decide to start Prospect Goods?
Quite honestly, the Prospect Goods I set out to start was a men and women’s boutique clothing store, with a smattering of home items and gifts thrown in. One year, when my husband’s birthday came around, I made him a tiny piñata. It was fun, so I made four “fancy” piñatas and put them up on Etsy. Within a month, they were getting tons of likes and I even sold one!
I’ve been selling piñatas as Prospect Goods for a year now, but the story of Prospect Goods started years ago. I didn’t think this is where Prospect Goods would take me, or that I’d be saying “piñata” every day, but I’m so grateful for this journey.
In five words or less, tell us why you love to make.
It’s a freakin’ piñata, duh!
We LOVE your piñatas! Where do you get your inspiration?
I am inspired by patterns. I’ve always noticed patterns in numbers or designs, and I love math! Our geometric piñatas are really just shiny patterns. As for color palattes, I’m inspired by Anna Bond and Mary Blair. Other sources of inspiration include: Steven Tyler’s style and mouth, Michael Jackson’s style and moves, Jaime Curl’s work and attitude, Sophia Amoruso’s hard work, never matching, loud music, great shoes, long walks and naps.
What does the making process look like for you?
I start with an idea, which is quickly followed up by a sketch and pattern making. Most of the time, the pattern making stage results in a lot of do-overs and tons of scrapped ideas. Once I get a pattern I like, I make a prototype, then I leave it hanging out for a week or so, to decide if I like it. I usually consult with Chelsea Spear, who has impeccable taste and gives honest feedback. If it makes it past that point, I photograph it and get it ready for the website.
What’s one piece of advice you’d share with other makers?
Chances are, you’ve been making things your whole life. I know I have. My advice is to keep making. Just keep making. It’s who we are.
What’s up next for you?