10/04/2026
A couple of weeks ago, I had a small business owner visit my studio. She was there to check out one of my xTool lasers as part of the xTool Squad demo program. She had some ideas for how the laser might change her business, but as I showed her how the software and the machine worked, she grew more and more excited by the possibilities. I also introduced her to some of my other xTool lasers, as well as the new Omni UV printer and the (new-to-me) apparel printer. When she left, she was buzzing with ideas for expanding her offerings, but she also felt confident about her next steps. She knew she was getting the right tool for right now, and she felt confident getting started with it.
This isn't an unusual occurence. I have been part of the xTool Squad since January, and I have had the absolute joy of introducing dozens of hobbyists, small business owners, and savvy established businesses to xTool's suite of maker tools through demos, materials tests, and training sessions. Some come in confident, some come in terrified, but I try to ensure that each one leaves with the information they need to make a buying decision or complete a project. We receive commission on sales, but the priority for me is in helping someone move a step closer to achieving a dream. It's cheesy, but it's true.
Indigo Whimsy was founded on the idea that we are all creative. It was always intended to be a place for artists and makers (and those who haven't yet discovered they are artists and makers) to come together, learn, and build a greater community. I added my first xTool laser to help me achieve that goal, but that one purchase has brought me so much more.
I will probably start selling some of my creations at some point, but unlike many of my peers in the Squad program, my "product" at Indigo Whimsy isn't magnets or tumblers or even t-shirts. It's joy. It's freedom. It's connection. And while I think every single one of them would understand exactly what I'm talking about, I have the privilege of making it my mission.
xTool is celebrating their 6th anniversary and they asked us to consider how their tools help us build our businesses, support our communities, and/or make our own art. They help me with all three.
In August, I added a "Service Station" label. I am authorized to provide installation and support for xTool in the field. And just a week or so ago, I became a "ProHub," which is incredibly exciting. ProHubs are called upon to provide additional education and support in their communities. Sounds like a good fit, right?
I have been a bit distracted by all of this learning and growth, but it's not in vain. The tools that I have added to the studio will allow me to streamling class prep, offer better tools, and even provide more customizations for attendee projects. I'll also be able to offer marketing support for other small businesses in conjunction with my creative business coaching program that will launch soon.
And if, by chance, you've been waiting for the shibori workshop I have been talking about for ages, it's on the way. The bonus? I'll have a bunch of new shaped resists cut by my lasers!
In the meantime, feel free to sign up for a free demo of your own (https://support.xtool.com/demo-room/host-instruction?id=980&name=Christy+Matte), join my main studio newsletter (https://indigowhimsy.myflodesk.com/keepintouch), or be first in line for my brand new Indigo Whimsy Toolbox newsletter (https://indigowhimsy.myflodesk.com/toolbox), aimed at makers and small biz owners.
Whew. This is a lot, but that's the way I roll.
Keep on making, and embrace the journey!
