Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Katsie O’neill. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Katsie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

Pursuing a creative path was never in the plan, and certainly not on a professional level!

I have always enjoyed being crafty, but was never really good at anything in particular. I can honestly say this was entirely unintentional.

I started etching glass in November 2018 as I was planning my company’s centennial bash. (I have a full-time job that I love!) While searching for employee gifts we saw these really cool glasses with the city skyline etched onto the glass.

I put in a request for a quote on an order of 160 glasses. A few days went by and no response.

Those that know me, know that I am a bit stubborn and VERY impatient. Ok, ok, VERY stubborn. I thought, why would it take so long to hear back when I was looking to order 160 glasses? Surely this was an opportunity someone would jump all over, or so I thought. But what did I know?

So, impatient me decided to learn how to etch glass and just do it myself. LOL! See, I have this problem when I get something in my brain, I just can’t let it go.

I think back now at how clueless I was to think I was going to make 160 glasses my first try at glass etching! I think my boss thought I was insane and maybe I was.

Needless to say, I finally heard back and was encouraged by my boss to let the professional handle the job. So, I came to my senses and did as I was told.

Well, I had this new skill that I wanted to do something with so, I made centerpieces for the party. It was fun and I got some great feedback! So, I came up with a design to etch on my own glass, posted it on FB, starting getting requests for custom gifts, & the rest is history!

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m Katsie (pronounced Kate-see) and I am the maker behind Rough Around the Etches.

I make locally inspired & sassy sandblasted glass products including unique drinking glasses, mugs, whiskey decanters, ice tubs, and lanterns. I specialize in creating custom gifts for my customers!

Over the last few years, I have expanded my product line to include laser engraved tumblers, bottle openers, booze bags, canvas totes and frosted iced coffee glasses.

Born and raised in Cleveland, I am inspired by my love for my hometown. I think about what we are known for, all the places I hold close to my heart, and how I can incorporate those things into my work.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding part of being a professional creative is bringing a customer’s special requests to life.

Sometimes, custom orders can be the most challenging and time-consuming, but seeing the excitement when they see their personal gift for that special someone makes it all worth it! The sense of pride and accomplishment that I feel is like no other!

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

I would have to say my family is what drives me!

My business is a reflection of my hard work, dedication, and vision, and it is entirely mine. I take full accountability for every decision, every success, every failure and every challenge that comes our way. This responsibility drives me to put in the extra effort, knowing that the choices I make directly impact the future of my family.

Every step I take is not just for personal fulfillment but also to create a stable and prosperous future for those I love most. This business is more than just a career—it’s a legacy I am building for my family, ensuring that they are always taken care of and proud of the work I do.

Contact Info:

• Website: www. rougharoundtheetches.com
• Instagram: @rougharoundtheetches
• Facebook: @rougharoundtheetches

Image Credits

Sarah Beirne Photography