Company Name: Toy-Chia

Name: Daisy Chia

Where does your company name come from?
I didn't put too much thought into the name: Toy-Chia. I just wanted to make toys and needed a name.

What do you make?
Monkeys mostly, but I hope to make other toys once my monkey series ends. I also make other things...

When did you start selling your crafts?

I started making monkeys (and ghostopus) and some cards for the annual Student Art Show and Sale at Emily Carr Institute in 2005. The organizers were really good about educating the students on how to sell themselves through their work. ...After a positive response, I made another set of monkeys the following year for the sale. The plan was to slowly evolve the monkeys each time. This is my third series; my first time making 100. I also have an Etsy store, but it sits empty right now.

What are three craft supplies you can’t live without?
This is tough because I need more than three. OK here's three of my favorite things in terms of tools: sharp scissors, a mechanical pencil, and a thin curved needle.

What inspires you to make?
Other people making stuff inspires me. I love how the craft community has blossomed in Toronto! I follow some artist's blog, which are a constant source of inspiration.

What’s your favourite thing about winter?
A hot bath after shoveling snow.

Visit Daisy Chia at: www.daisychica.com