Craft Industry Alliance (Abby Glassenberg)

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about knitwear design with my guest Andrea Mowry.

Andrea is was lucky enough to learn how to knit as a child from her Grandma Ginny. By her late teens, guided by the wisdom of the great Elizabeth Zimmerman and her many books, she began trying to work out her own patterns. After leaving her life as a pastry chef to start a family with her husband, her hands found the necessary freedom to begin creating with fiber instead of flour.

Andrea focuses on designing knits to fit the modern wardrobe – fun to knit and easy to wear, with clear directions for every level of knitter. She believes in enjoying every stitch and wearing at least one hand knit every day! Andrea has a great love for indulging in new techniques and skills and then sharing them with other knitters thru her patterns and workshops. Her goal is to leave knitters feeling empowered and inspired, and wrapped up in their own beautiful knits! If she is not knitting, you can probably find her spinning, sewing, weaving or cooking up something yummy for her family!

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Today's episode is sponsored by Schacht Spindle Company.

Schacht Spindle Company has been manufacturing hand weaving looms and spinning wheels in Boulder, Colorado since 1969. Schacht products are beautifully crafted tools, designed with the craftsperson in mind. Sign up for their monthly newsletter at schachtspindle.com for free patterns, product updates, and Schacht news.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

 

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about documentary filmmaking with my guest Jenifer McShane.

Jenifer McShane is an independent filmmaker committed to using film to bridge understanding in situations where structural or cultural divisions typically keep people apart. Jenifer's current film The Quilters, a documentary short about a quilting group in a men's prison in Missouri recently premiered at the DC/Dox Film Festival in Washington DC and will be traveling to other film festivals this summer. Her previous film, Ernie & Joe: Crisis Cops, won an Emmy for Outstanding Editing and the Jury Award at South By Southwest. It is currently streaming on HBO.

Jenifer spent over four years visiting Bedford Hills Correctional Facility in Bedford, N.Y. to make her previous documentary, Mothers of Bedford, which reveals the impact of incarceration on mothers and their children. Her first documentary which she co-directed, A Leap of Faith, was narrated by Liam Neeson and premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. Jenifer was born and raised in New York City and currently lives in Guilford, CT.

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If you know a crafty tween, check out Stitch Squad - a brand-new subscription box all about fiber crafts and cuteness! Each monthly box highlights a different fiber craft technique with a focus on learning new skills. With supplies to complete 2-3 projects, plus a bundle of adorable notions, craft tools + crafty surprises, it’s a cute, colorful, crafty unboxing experience! All you have to do is open the box and enjoy. Gift subscriptions are available!

To subscribe, visit stitchsquadbox.com and use code ALLIANCE for 20% off your first box.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about building a multi-faceted craft business with my guest Kathy Cano-Murillo.

Kathy Cano-Murillo is an author, artist & founder of the award-winning brand, CraftyChica. She spreads the gospel of glitter – literally through her DIY projects and figuratively through her speeches, workshops, books, and essays.

A former syndicated columnist for The Arizona Republic, she is now a full-time creativepreneur which has led to multiple Crafty Chica mass retail product lines, and collabs with Coca-Cola, HSN, HP, WordPress, Disney & many others. She has authored seven craft books, two novels, and recently, Forever Frida: A Celebration of the Life, Art, Loves, Words, and Style of Frida Kahlo. She has been featured in The New York Times, USA Today, Huffington Post, Buzzfeed+ more. Kathy is Mexican-American, a native of Phoenix, Arizona, mom of two, a wife, and owner of three Chihuahuas.

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This episode is sponsored by Flowsmith. Flowsmith creates a QuickBooks portal for companies to streamline the process of managing wholesale orders. Especially developed for small and mid-sized businesses, your new portal will allow you to easily reduce costs, improve internal communication, and keep a professional atmosphere. Stay up to date with information at your fingertips by visiting flowsmith.us and start your 90-day free trial TODAY!

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

 

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about online learning with my guest Craig Swanson.

At the age of 18, Craig founded Swanson Tech Support and worked as a tech consultant for 6 years before founding CreativeTechs which lead to over a million dollars in sales.

Soon after Craig co-founded the creative online learning platform CreativeLive, an idea that was birthed from a failed video training program for his IT business. CreativeLive would grow from a small start-up team to 70+ employees offering workshops with top industry leaders like Tim Ferriss and Brené Brown.

Now Craig partners with creators, educators, and influencers by providing the missing piece that they need to get to the next stage of their business and is helping build $1 million dollar businesses one step at a time.

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This episode is sponsored by Divine Social. Divine Social is a marketing agency that helps eCommerce stores who sell to makers, creators, crafters, artists & DIY enthusiasts.  They are behind some of the biggest brands in the creative industry, responsible for strategies to move your online traffic from prospects to buyers to raving fans. The team at Divine Social is offering a customized review of your shop to help you uncover what’s keeping you from selling more. Go to divinesocial.com/cia for more details. 

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about building a crochet business with my guest Toni Lipsey.

Toni is the designer and instructor behind TL Yarn Crafts. Through her printable patterns and cheery video tutorials, she strives to make crochet accessible to makers of every skill level. Toni learned to crochet as a teen but honed her skills after graduating from college. She was bitten by the entrepreneur bug in 2015 and began TL Yarn Crafts as a finished product business. Designing soon became the focus and she was able to quit her day job in 2017. At present, Toni spends her time nurturing her community of over 175K makers across platforms by offering approachable crochet patterns and handmade business wisdom. 

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Today's episode is sponsored by Amy Barickman. Amy is the founder of Indygo Junction and authored the award-winning book Vintage Notions: An inspirational guide to needlework, cooking, sewing, fashion and fun! Visit Amy’s blog and sign up for her newsletter to follow her journey as she curates and shares fabulous images and projects for you to create. Amy’s will newsletter notify you about upcoming Vintage Made Modern videos and Vintage Notions LIVE events.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about growing a weaving yarn company with my guest, Sarah Resnick.

Sarah is the founder of the weaving yarn company Gist Yarn, and their newly launched sister brand Zollie. Since 2017, their small, creative team has been making yarn, patterns, and projects that weavers and makers are proud to bring into their homes. Sarah started her career as a community and union organizer, and made the switch to small business when she helped to launch a sewing factory in 2016.

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Today's episode is sponsored by The Academy for Virtual Teaching, a community of creative entrepreneurs, building proficient, profitable, and professional online teaching businesses. In the Academy for Virtual Teaching’s Pro-Membership we can help you develop the skills needed to organize, film, edit, and add online education to your business model. We invite you to join our community of supportive colleagues as we share our creativity with students around the world. Get a 30% discount right here.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about serving the LGBTQ+ community through craft with my guest Austin Rivers.

Austin is a nonprofit founder; diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant; activist; and professional actor. He received his double bachelor's degree in politics and musical theatre from NYU, his master of public administration (MPA) from the University of Central Florida, and is starting his PhD in change leadership for equity and inclusion from the University of Central Arkansas this Fall.

Austin has worked on several progressive political campaigns and in the offices of elected officials in NYC. As an actor, he has toured the United States and around the world, performing in over 20 countries. Austin currently serves as the Special Assistant to the Chief Diversity Officer at the Rockefeller Brothers Fund and the founder and Board Chair of Knit the Rainbow, Inc., a nonprofit organization that collects and distributes handmade knit and crochet winter garments for homeless and at-risk LGBTQ+ youth.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast we're talking about building a weaving loom and spindle company with my guests Jane Patrick and Barry Schacht of Schacht Spindle Company.

Jane Patrick has been in the weaving and the textile arts field for over 40 years. Between 1981 and 1992 she was an editor at Interweave Press where she edited HANDWOVEN magazine, books, and Design Collections. Jane is an ardent enthusiast of both the art and craft of the textile arts, with interests in both contemporary and traditional work. Jane is the Creative Director for Schacht Spindle Company. Her current project is developing a textile school at Schacht in Boulder, Colorado.

Barry Schacht, CEO of Schacht Spindle Company, came into the weaving and spinning world by chance, in 1969, when his brother’s girlfriend wanted to learn to spin. From a first commission to make a drop spindle, to creating a loom with little knowledge, Barry has been the guiding light of Schacht Spindle Company, now housed in a 33,000 square foot building and employing 50 employees.

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This episode is sponsored by Wunderlabel, your one-stop-shop for professional custom clothing labels and personalized branding products. Visit wunderlabel.com to customize your own clothing labels, hang-tags, gift ribbon and other branding items. Our interactive online design tool will walk you through the design process. Recycled options, small batch quantities and OEKO-TEX certified labels are just a few of the amazing options we offer. Use discount code CIA15 for 15% off your entire purchase.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

 

On today’s episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about building a yarn shop, both online and brick-and-mortar, with my guest Kathy Elkins.

Along with her husband Steve, Kathy is the owner of WEBS – America’s Yarn Store located in Northampton, MA.  WEBS was founded in 1974 by Steve’s mother and in 2002 Kathy & Steve assumed ownership.  Kathy holds a B.A. in Communication from the University of New Hampshire and an M.B.A. from Suffolk University.  She has extensive marketing experience in consumer products as well as prior committee and board experience on various community organizations.  Her most important role is that of being a mom to her two sons, Jackson & Jonathan.

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This episode is sponsored by Makerist. Makerist is your new favorite online craft destination and Europe’s largest online pattern marketplace, and now they’re expanding into the global market to bring their huge selection of PDF sewing, knitting, crochet, and embroidery patterns to crafters everywhere! Use the coupon code CA20 to take 20% off your first purchase for any full-price patterns. The coupon is applied at checkout.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about h+h americas, a brand new trade show for the crafts industry, with my guest Darrin Stern.

Darrin Stern has worked for Koelnmesse (Cologne International Trade Fairs) Inc for 18 years. In that time, he has supported hundreds of clients from more than ten unique industries to grow their business worldwide. One of the industries Darrin supports is fiber arts. Since 2015 Darrin has helped companies from North America exhibit and visit the h+h Cologne show in Germany. In Darrin’s role with Koelnmesse Inc, he services as the Director of Business Development, IT & Systems Manager, and the show Director for h+h Americas. Before Koelnmesse, Darrin was a University Professor, Service Consultant, and Business Owner.  Darrin lives in the greater Chicago area with his two daughters and wife.

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This episode is sponsored by Divine Social. Divine Social is a marketing agency that helps eCommerce stores who sell to makers, creators, crafters, artists & DIY enthusiasts.  They are behind some of the biggest brands in the creative industry, responsible for strategies to move your online traffic from prospects to buyers to raving fans.  And now the team at Divine Social is offering a customized review of your shop to help you uncover what’s keeping you from selling more. Go to divinesocial.com/cia for more details. 

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about creating craft media with my guest Anne Merrow.

Anne Merrow started off as a book editor but has turned a series of hobbies—knitting, spinning, and weaving—into a beloved career. She is a founder and partner of Long Thread Media, which publishes Handwoven, Spin Off, PieceWork, Little Looms, and other content related to fiber arts. She serves as the company’s editorial director and host of the Long Thread Podcast. Anne lives in Northern Colorado with her husband and naughty cats.

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This episode is sponsored by Craftsy.

Whether you’re new to making, or looking to advance skills in a favorite hobby, Craftsy is the place to learn.  

With over 1,500 classes, there’s something for everyone, from knitting and sewing, to baking and cooking, gardening, embroidery, quilting and more!  

Visit CraftsyOffers.com today and get a full year of Craftsy Premium Membership for just $3! That’s 97% off the regular price! Start turning ideas into projects you can be proud of. 

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about card making with my guest Simon Hurley.

Simon Hurley started cardmaking when he was 12 and loved that each card was a unique canvas to work on. After sharing his work on YouTube, he slowly grew a loyal community of crafters who watched his videos. This led to him filming a cardmaking class at Scrapbook.com when he was 14 and several more thereafter. At age 16, Simon partnered with Ranger to launch a line of inks, stamps, and stencils that are perfect for cardmaking. The product line has since grown and Simon has become known for his versatile Stamping Foam and metallic Lunar Paste. Simon has continued making videos and growing his community on Youtube and you can find many inspirational videos using his products there.

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This episode is sponsored by Cedar Bay Planner Company, makers of The Quilter’s Planner and The Knitter’s Planner. At Cedar Bay, they believe it’s important to make time to do the things you love. Let them help you with their collection of beautiful organizational tools! They make customizable, craft-focused yearly planners, undated project planners, accessories, and digital products- everything you need to manage your day-to-day life and crafting all in one place! 

Visit www.quiltersplanner.com and www.knittersplanner.com to see their full line of products, and use the code CIA10 at checkout for 10% off your 2023 planner.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about hand-dyed fabrics with my guest Karla Overland.

 

Karla is the owner of Cherrywood Hand Dyed Fabrics in Baxter, Minnesota. She is the “colorist” who creates all the dye formulas and gradations of the gorgeous trademark bundles. Karla has been sewing since she was a little girl and holds a degree in Graphic Design. She applies her combined passions to all aspects of Cherrywood; web and print design, color theory, marketing, pattern design, and The Cherrywood Challenge. She has self-published nine exhibit books and over a dozen patterns. Cherrywood travels all over the U.S. vending at quilt shows where Karla also gives presentations and teaches classes. She has taught at the Australasian Quilt Festival in Melbourne, Australia, and hosted a bus tour of The Netherlands, Belgium and France for The Van Gogh Cherrywood Challenge.

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This episode is sponsored by Craftsy.

Calling all crafters! Are you ready to dive deep into your favorite crafting projects and learn new techniques along the way? Then it's time to join Craftsy Premium Membership. March is National Craft Month. Take advantage of this special promotion! For ONLY $1.49, you'll receive a full year of access to expert-led tutorials, patterns, and projects in every category you can imagine. With a massive library of resources at your fingertips, you'll be able to create your best work yet and bring your crafting dreams to life. Don't wait – sign up now at CraftsyOffers.com and discover the endless possibilities of Craftsy Premium Membership!

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about creating a subscription with my guest Mary Granbenstatter.

Mary is the owner of Needle Sharp, a monthly subscription sewing box service she founded in 2017 that offers curated garment projects as well as fabric and patterns.  The company is a culmination of Mary’s love of crafting in her youth, her knowledge of computers and design from her editing experience, and her invaluable experience in retail from Barnes and Noble. Every day, she feels like she's learning and improving as a sewist.

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This episode is sponsored by the Nome Schoolhouse in Nome, North Dakota.

Looking to host your own unforgettable arts and crafts retreat? Look no further than the Nome Schoolhouse! Our stunning venue is ready to be the backdrop for your next creative endeavor.

Whether it's with friends, colleagues, or fellow creatives, gather your tribe and let us take care of the details.

At the Nome Schoolhouse, we understand that what truly matters is letting your imagination soar. That's why we provide the perfect setting, allowing you to focus on what's important: your creative journey.

So, bring your ideas to life in our inspiring space. Unleash your creativity, surrounded by the charm and tranquility of the Nome Schoolhouse. Book your arts and crafts retreat today, and let the magic begin.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today’s episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about creating an inclusive craft community with my guest Cecilia Nelson-Hurt.

Cecilia is a proud Afro Latina who was taught to crochet as a child by her Grandma Sophie and learned to knit many years later. Known to many in the fiber community as ‘Creative Ceci,’ she is a global knitting and crochet enthusiast. Ceci is a Diversity & Inclusion practitioner for global brand L’Oreal and has over 15 years’ experience developing and executing initiatives to create an equal opportunity workplace. She leverages her training and experience as a speaker at many fiber events and is also an inaugural member of the ‘Vogue Knitting Live!’ Diversity Advisory Council and on the Board of Knit the Rainbow, an organization founded to provided knitting garments, crafting instruction and support to homeless LGBTQ+ youth.  Ceci loves to travel and ensures she visits a yarn shop wherever she goes. To date she’s visited over 150 shops both across the USA and internationally.

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This episode is sponsored by Digits & Threads, the member-supported online magazine for Canadian fibre and textile arts. Digits & Threads is the member-supported online magazine for Canadian fibre and textile arts. No matter where in the world you are, there’s something crafty in the Great White North for you. Use the code ALLIANCE for 10% off your first year at digitsandthreads.ca.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about starting a fabric company with my guest Tracy Krauter.

 

Tracy is the founder of Splash Fabric. Raising three boys, Tracy knew there had to be a better solution to everyday messes. When she couldn't find the perfect fabric—one that was soft yet waterproof, durable yet sewable—she didn't just settle. She innovated.  Today, her signature laminated cotton transforms ordinary items into spill-proof shields, creating beautiful, practical solutions that protect your tables, reduce your laundry, and add a splash of joy to daily life.

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This episode is sponsored by The Academy for Virtual Teaching.

You know video is the most effective way to market your brand, but as the “CEO of everything,” you have NO time to make it happen. It’s overwhelming. We get it! We want to help you to stop leaving money on the table.

The Academy for Virtual Teaching FREE webinar, “Make a Promotional Video in 3 Easy Steps!” No stress, no fancy gear—just your phone. Learn how to create quick, engaging videos that work. Register now at AcademyForVirtualTeaching.com or a4vt.com—that’s A, the number 4, VT.com.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

 

In this conversation, we’re taking a deep dive into creative embroidery with our guest, Robert Mahar. Robert Mahar is an artist and designer who teaches imaginative do-it-yourself projects through high-quality video tutorials. Robert is also a proud season one alumni of NBC’s crafting competition show Making It! Co-hosted by Amy Poehler and Nick Offerman.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about handmade marketplaces with my guest Jon Lincoln.

Jon is the founder of Goimagine. He earned many accolades with his prior technology venture within InsurTech including “Insurance Innovation of the Year” and “Top 10 InsurTech Leaders of 2017” which led to a company exit valued at over $44 Million.

Never a stranger to new ventures in 2020 Jon entered the world of ecommerce with the launch of goimagine.com; a new online marketplace that is the world’s first to donate 100% profits to charity.

As a handmade marketplace with a philanthropic mission goimagine has grown to over 3,000 makers and artists working to grow their handmade businesses while also helping children in need. As corporate marketplaces continue to grow and dominate the ecommerce landscape Jon believes it’s time there was a marketplace dedicated to providing social good.

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This episode is sponsored by h+h americas.

Join us! June 21 - 23, 2023 for h+h americas at the Donald E. Stephens Convention & Conference Center in Rosemont, IL.

h+h americas is the premier trade show for today’s business environment. It’s the place where creativity meets business. h+h americas is a Business-to-business trade show with an extended digital marketplace accessible before and after the event.

Open to everyone who makes a living in crafts, h+h americas serves a community without membership requirements. For the first time the h+h americas in 2023 will include all craft sectors extending the event to the entire, creative community. For  more information visit hh-americas.com

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about designing fabric with my guest Anna Maria Parry.

Having grown up in a creative home, Anna Maria Parry earned an honors BFA in drawing from the University of Tennessee in 1995 before opening a small clothing shop with her mother the same year. Designing and sewing a clothing label while managing a shop primed her for a career in textiles and small business. Since her first fabric collection debuted in 2005, she has designed hundreds of illustrative fabric prints that have inspired crafters and quilters around the globe. She is now the design director for Anna Maria Textiles and sharing her distinctive quilt-making process has taken her all over the world to teach and lecture. Anna Maria’s Blueprint Quilting is her fourth book, and she self-publishes an ongoing collection of sewing, quilting, and needlework patterns at annamariaparry.com. She lives with her husband and family between Franklin, Tennessee, and Sydney, Australia.

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This episode is sponsored by Craftsy.

Calling all crafters! Are you ready to dive deep into your favorite crafting projects and learn new techniques along the way? Then it's time to join Craftsy Premium Membership. Take advantage of this Black Friday Deal! For ONLY $1.49, you'll receive a full year of access to expert-led tutorials, patterns, and projects in every category you can imagine. With a massive library of resources at your fingertips, you'll be able to create your best work yet and bring your crafting dreams to life. Don't wait – sign up now at CraftsyOffers.com and discover the endless possibilities of Craftsy Premium Membership!

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about building a yarn company with my guest Nicole Snow of Darn Good Yarn.

United States Air Force Veteran, Entrepreneur,  Mom to a five-year-old, Wife, Founder & CEO, Nicole Snow is the ‘Jane of all trades. In 2008, out of the desire to create a business focused on social consciousness through crafting and design, Nicole founded Darn Good Yarn. Over the past 13 years, Darn Good Yarn has saved over 2,000,000 pounds of manufacturing remnant material from ending up in landfills or rivers, upcycling it into handmade craft supplies and apparel while employing more than 600 global artisans. Darn Good Yarn has appeared for the last 5 years on the Inc 5000 list.

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This episode is sponsored by Craftsy. Whether you’re new to making, or looking to advance skills in a favorite hobby, Craftsy is the place to learn. With over 1,500 classes, there’s something for everyone, from knitting and sewing, to baking and cooking, gardening, embroidery, quilting and more!  

Visit CraftsyOffers.com today and get a full year of Craftsy Premium Membership for just $3! That’s 97% off the regular price! Start turning ideas into projects you can be proud of. 

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast we’re talking about building a sewing pattern business with my guest Norma Loehr.

Norma is the founder and creative director of Orange Lingerie. After a career in financial services, she started Orange Lingerie and began making custom bras for individual clients in 2010. In 2013 she published a book on how to sew and fit bras and then began releasing her own line of bra sewing patterns and teaching her techniques in weekend workshops all over the U.S. 

Her company’s mission is to enable sewists to make their own beautiful and professional looking lingerie.

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Today’s episode is brought to you by Therm O Web, maker of some of the craft industry’s most enduring and innovative brands, including HeatnBond, ZOTS, iCraft and Deco Foil. Based in the Chicago suburbs, second-generation, family-owned Therm O Web is proud to have served the creative community for nearly 50 years with quality products for sewing, quilting, embroidery and paper crafts. Visit thermowebonline.com to learn more.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about blurring the lines between art, craft, design, and poetry with my guest e Bond.

e makes digital spaces by day, handmade books by night, hangs out with trees on weekends, and writes something close to poems in the spaces between. Under the studio name roughdrAftbooks—created in 2003—she makes one-of-a-kind artist books, printed pieces, and abstract drawings that merge and blur the boundaries of art, craft, design, and poetry. e holds a BFA in graphic design and art history from Moore College of Art & Design and an MFA in Creative Writing and Book Art from Mills College.

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This episode is sponsored by Craftsy. Whether you’re new to making, or looking to advance skills in a favorite hobby, Craftsy is the place to learn.  

 

With over 1,500 classes, there’s something for everyone, from knitting and sewing, to baking and cooking, gardening, embroidery, quilting and more!  

 

Visit CraftsyOffers.com today and get a full year of Craftsy Premium Membership for just $3! That’s 97% off the regular price! Start turning ideas into projects you can be proud of. 

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about tech editing and mentoring with my guest Tian Connaughton.

Tian is a Massachusetts-based knit and crochet designer, a technical editor working with magazines and major brands, and a business coach for handmade and fiber artists. She lives by the motto, "a rising tide lifts all boats," and this is evident in all that she does, from writing books to creating online courses and coaching programs. Her work prioritizes helping women - particularly Black women and women of color - to create the life they want doing work that they love, which society doesn't always encourage.

Tian currently has a new free course out, Get Published, created in partnership with Knit Picks and We Crochet. Get Published is a 6-part video series for aspiring and experienced designers who are ready to take their designing to the next level by adding 3rd party publications. Each video takes you through the process from creating your proposal all the way to the publication going live. The course is available now to binge-watch on-demand. Tian also teaches classes on Creativebug.

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This episode is sponsored by goimagine. goimagine is a handmade marketplace donating 100% profits to charity. With a mission to help children in need, goimagine is a movement of makers & artists growing their own handmade businesses while supporting a marketplace focused on social good. Learn more about goimagine's new concept for a caring economy at goimagine.com

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about craftivism with my guest Shannon Downey.

Shannon is an artist, activist, craftivist, community builder, and general instigator. Her work moves people from passive consumers of art into engaged creators and leverages craft-based art forms to bring people together, present opportunities to transition from makers to change makers, and inspire radical hope for what is possible.

She’s the founder of Badass Cross Stitch and her new book Let's Move the Needle provides a roadmap and accessible toolkit for burgeoning art activists with self-reflective activities, exercises, prompts, and stories.

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This episode is sponsored by Craftsy. 

Calling all crafters! Are you ready to dive deep into your favorite crafting projects and learn new techniques along the way? Then it's time to join Craftsy Premium Membership. Take advantage of this extended Black Friday Deal! For ONLY $1.49, you'll receive a full year of access to expert-led tutorials, patterns, and projects in every category you can imagine. With a massive library of resources at your fingertips, you'll be able to create your best work yet and bring your crafting dreams to life. Don't wait – sign up now at CraftsyOffers.com and discover the endless possibilities of Craftsy Premium Membership!

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about fabric design and illustration with my guest Heather Ross.

Author and artist Heather Ross has won fame exploring themes of resourceful and creative living, the natural world, and handmade. Best known for her collectible fabric designs and books that appeal to the handmade and craft markets, she also hosts a wildly popular series of craft retreats held across the country.

Heather’s critically acclaimed memoir How To Catch a Frog chronicles her childhood spent in a remote corner of Vermont, in a wilderness setting that remains a major influence on her creative work. She is also a celebrated illustrator of numerous children’s books, including the best-selling Crafty Chloe series, winner of the Kirkus Star. Heather Ross was a regular guest on The Martha Stewart Show and one of the most-viewed artists featured on the how-to video channel Creativebug. She regularly speaks on a wide range of topics that include creative living, the modern craft movement, and handmade.

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Today's episode is sponsored by Stockabl. Stockabl is a curated wholesale marketplace for handcrafted goods, built by makers like you, not by Silicon Valley. We’ve got convenient features like risk-free Net 60 buyer terms without the hefty commissions, and orders are always paid within 3 days so you don’t have to worry about cash flow.

With the average wholesale order being worth $250 and some platforms charging commissions as high as 25%, switching to Stockabl helps you put an extra $62.50 per order in the bank. How? As makers ourselves, we understand how every dollar counts so we’re waiving our transaction fees.  

Learn more at stockabl.com/craftindustryalliance. Apply to sell today and get your first month free.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

In this conversation, we’re taking a deep dive into surface design with our guest, Jo Kalute. Jo works lives and plays in Clovelly, a small idyllic coastal suburb of Sydney, Australia. She is a surface pattern designer and illustrator and her work is inspired by her Kenyan heritage.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today’s episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about building a business as a paper artist with my guest Abigail McMurray of Yeiou Paper Objects. I visited Abigail in her studio in Arlington, Massachusetts to record this interview which was a lot of fun.

With paper as a medium, artist Abigail McMurray combines her background in graphic design and sculpture to create papercraft kits, unique greeting cards, architecturally-inspired artwork, and custom house portraits under the name yeiou paper objects. Abigail’s custom house portraits were awarded an Honorable Mention in the 2019 Etsy Design Awards. These heirlooms capture a home or other building, rendering the details and dimensions in a one-of-a-kind paper sculpture. Abigail lives and works in Arlington, MA with her husband, sister, and cat, who are all very gracious about the tiny bits of paper that end up all over the house.

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​This episode is sponsored by Search Press. Bringing you the finest in art and craft instruction books to improve your skills or ignite a new passion.

For 50 years, Search Press has delighted crafters with detailed instruction books for knitting, crochet, sewing, quilting, fiber crafts, painting and drawing. Start 2020 off with some of the finest books in craft. If you would like to learn more about selling Search Press books in your store or on your website, check out our website searchpressusa.com.

See Search Press books in your local fiber arts and craft store or view our whole catalog at Search Press North America. Search Press are sold through Sommer Street and are available at industry events.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about building a business as a mixed media artist with my guest Mou Saha.

Mou Saha is a mixed media artist and teacher. She has been published over 700 times in print media, appeared on PBS TV shows and created several coloring books of her own. Her academic background in clinical psychology fuels her ongoing quest for wellness through creativity. Mou is a mom of three and lives in New Jersey with her family. She can be found online at https://mousaha.com  and on Instagram as mou.saha.studio

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This episode is sponsored by Reprint and Repurpose, a small fabric business. At Reprint and Repurpose, they have so much fun getting to create up-cycled fabric, offering crafters like you an earth-friendly fabric choice, that can be used in all your projects, from quilts to apparel. Shop online at reprintandrepurpose.com, use the code PODCAST10 for a discount for your order!

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking with two of the winners of the Golden Scissors Awards. These new awards recognize excellence in the crafts industry and are given out annually at h+h americas. Nominations were open to everyone and the winners were determined by an independent panel of judges made up of craft industry professionals. 

In this first episode, we'll hear the stories of our Emerging Leader Award, Elizabeth Okeyele. Elizabeth works to spread the love of knitting and crochet to children throughout her home country of Nigeria, and in neighboring countries in Africa, through her business Tunizze Creation.

 

We'll also hear the story of our Sustainability Award winner, Ali Pate. Ali is an indie yarn dyer in Colorado who has made her company, Road Trip Sock Yarn, a model of sustainable business practices from water reuse to packaging to planting trees in her home state.

 

We hope you are inspired by both Elizabeth's and Ali's stories! Nominations for the 2025 Golden Scissors Awards will open early in the year and we encourage you to nominate yourself or someone else, and to attend the awards ceremony at h+h americas in Chicago May 7-9, 2025.

 

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about modern quilting with my guest Libs Elliott.

 

Elizabeth (Libs) Elliott is a textile artist exploring the intersection of technology and traditional craft by using generative code to design and make handmade quilts. A deep appreciation for craftsmanship, design history and future-focused applications are all reflected in her work. She studied Material Art & Design at OCAD University and lives and works in Toronto, Canada. Libs has been making quilts since 2009 and designing fabric collections since 2015. Her commissions include work for individuals and corporate clients such as Absolut Vodka. She has exhibited her work internationally and been covered by press such as Gizmodo.com, Design Milk and Casa Vogue.

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This episode is sponsored by The Academy for Virtual Teaching.

A community of creatives, building proficient, profitable, and professional online teaching businesses.

As a solopreneur you understand that feeling of exhaustion. There are limited hours in the day and only one of YOU to go around.

 

At the Academy for Virtual Teaching we can help you develop the skills needed to add online education to your business model. We are a FREE private membership community of supportive colleagues, sharing our love of making things with students around the world. We have an entire library full of equipment reviews and technical skill building workshops. We invite you to join the Academy for Virtual Teaching at  a4vt.com.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

In our final episode, we talk with three key players at Spoonflower to find out how they do their jobs. First up is Sarah Ward, Senior Vice President of Marketing. Then, we chat with Alyssa McNamara, a research and development engineer at Spoonflower. And finally, we talk to Anitha Kothandaraman, the Sewing Operations Manager.

These three interviews together shine a light on different aspects of Spoonflower as a business.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about folklore with my guest Diana Baird N’Diaye.

Diana is a senior curator and cultural heritage specialist at the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. She previously held positions as folk arts program analyst at the New York State Council on the Arts and curator-in-chief at the Muse Community Museum of Brooklyn, New York.

Dr. N’Diaye is also a maker, creating quilts, necklaces, clothing, bags, and everything in between. As a maker, her focus is to provoke conversations and contemplations around identity, heritage, healing, and the social terrain in those of the diaspora. Utilizing her creativity as an anthropologist, Diana’s travel and research permeate through her work. Her art is shaped by her identities as a citizen of global Africa and 2nd generation transnational.

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Today's episode is sponsored by Craftsy.

Calling all crafters! Are you ready to dive deep into your favorite crafting projects and learn new techniques along the way? Then it's time to join Craftsy Premium Membership. For ONLY $1.49, you'll receive a full year of access to expert-led tutorials, patterns, and projects in every category you can imagine. With a massive library of resources at your fingertips, you'll be able to create your best work yet and bring your crafting dreams to life. Don't wait – sign up now at CraftsyOffers.com and discover the endless possibilities of Craftsy Premium Membership!

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about brand collaborations with my guest Tisa Jackson.

 

Tisa Jackson is the colorful brains behind This Is Tisa.  Tisa is a stationery designer and DIY craft content creator and workshop instructor. She’s inspired by color and has a passion for bright, colorful, happy designs and DIY projects.  Tisa has collaborated with brands such as HP, Michaels, Cricut, Beacon, and Silhouette. Visit her blog and you will come away learning quick and easy crafts, even if you don’t consider yourself a crafter.  

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This episode is sponsored by Craftsy. Classes for all maker levels and interests. Whether you’re new to making, or looking to advance skills in a favorite hobby, Craftsy is the place to learn. With over 1,500 classes, there’s something for everyone, from knitting and sewing, to baking and cooking, gardening, embroidery, quilting and more!  Visit CraftsyOffers.com today and get a full year of Craftsy Premium Membership for just $3! That’s 97% off the regular price! Start turning ideas into projects you can be proud of.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about sustainability and sewing with my guest Wendy Ward.

Wendy is a writer, designer, maker, and educator. She has worked as a designer in fast fashion and for a small sustainable brand. For her master’s degree in 2004, she explored novel ways to recycle textiles and in 2007 she moved into education and has taught numerous garment-making, textile recycling, and garment alterations classes with adults. Wendy has her own line of sewing patterns called MIY Collection and has written five best-selling sewing books including her most recent, How to Sew Sustainably which was published in June.

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This episode is sponsored by

Bungalow Quilting carries the highest quality and most recent fabric releases. Your order will ship in less than 24 hours and we are centrally located. Curated by a 5-time author for C&T Publishing, and designer for Studio e fabrics, Judy knows how to select great fabrics for her shop. Shop online and use the discount code BUNGALOW to receive a 10% discount on your purchase for the month of October 2021.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about building a knitting business with my guest Louis Boria.

After going viral for knitting during his daily subway commute from Brooklyn to Manhattan late in 2017, 45-year-old Puerto Rican Knitwear Designer and Philanthropist Louis Boria, also known as Brooklyn Boy Knits, has turned his passion for fiber arts into a platform where he now works with the community. He uses his platform to break down gender norms and tackle issues related to diversity and inclusion within the fiber arts community.

Throughout his journey from novice knitter to designer to Tedx speaker and influencer, he has focused on helping others. He believes that creativity can help heal wounds, both our own and society’s. Boria has collaborated with fiber artists, fiber industry leaders, community partners, and school districts to provide an interactive, engaging, and fun program that teaches young students to value differences. Be sure to check out Louis’ Tedx talk, “Making the most of your moment” which can be found on YouTube.

 

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This episode is sponsored by Jimmy Beans Wool. Started in 2002, Jimmy Beans Wool has been your go-to local yarn shop online for nearly two decades! They’ve got thousands of yarns to choose from in a variety of brands, weights, colors, and price points, along with everything you need to create and finish the perfect project. They’re now offering free US shipping to our listeners. Head to JimmyBeansWool.com/CraftIndustryAlliance to get crafting!  

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about building a yarn business with my guest Amy Small.

Amy is a business owner, hand spinner, yarn lover, obsessive knitter, and podcaster. Along with making things, she’s passionate about creative small businesses and yoga! At the heart of her business, Knit Collage is the idea that making things makes us better. This might look like more creativity and confidence or patience and peace in your daily life. In a nutshell, it's not just about the yarn - it's about finding something that helps you and makes you feel like your most authentic, best self!

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This episode is sponsored by Cooperative Press. Cooperative Press has been publishing exciting knitting books by talented independent authors for over a decade. Founder Shannon Okey got tired of trying to figure out why she earned next to nothing on every book she wrote for other publishers, so she changed the rules of the game. Cooperative Press authors earn a significantly higher royalty AND get greater creative freedom to produce the kinds of books knitters want to read… not just another garter stitch scarf book. Find them at cooperativepress.com! Use the code ABBY for 20% off.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about bargello with my guest, Brett Bara.

Brett is the founder of Hello Bargello, a brand dedicated to reviving the vintage craft of bargello for modern makers. Brett is a crafts expert and creative entrepreneur who has been working in the crafts industry for over 20 years. Over the years, she's been a magazine Editor-in-Chief, a book author, a TV host, a video instructor, a brand spokesperson, a social media maven, a designer, a blogger--and more. Her entrepreneurial spirit has inspired her to start businesses that connect the young, urban folks in her community with the deep tradition of handcrafts. In 2013 Brett founded Brooklyn Craft Company, a modern crafting store and workshop space in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. In Brett's current role as owner of Hello Bargello, she strives to connect the dots between preserving traditional crafts and building a thriving, contemporary e-commerce business.

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This episode is sponsored by Craftsy. At Craftsy, we know making. Craftsy is your go-to destination for mastering every aspect of your craft. Take your craft to new levels in the new year with a Crafty Premium Membership for only $1.49. That's 99% off for an entire year! Start turning ideas into projects you can be proud of. Visit craftsyoffers.com today!

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

In this special episode of the podcast, we are focusing on the Etsy strike. I sit down with Kristi Cassidy, one of the organizers, in order to learn how it came to be and the impact it might have.

If you haven’t heard about the Etsy strike yet, it’s a petition created by a group of Etsy sellers with a list of demands they want Etsy to meet. These include canceling the latest fee increase which brought transaction fees from 5% to 6.5%. Other demands include cracking down on resellers, improving seller support, ending the Star Seller program, and letting all sellers opt-out of Offsite Ads. As of right now, when we recorded this interview, the petition has 72,334 signatures or just about 1% of Etsy’s total active sellers.

Kristi Cassidy is one of the creators of the Etsy Strike petition, along with fellow sellers she connected with on Reddi. Kristi sells steampunk gothic fantasy costumes that she sews herself in her Etsy shop, Auralynne.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about building a business in rug hooking with my guest Amy Oxford.

Amy Oxford is the owner of The Oxford Company in Cornwall Vermont. She’s been making punch needle style hooked rugs since 1982 when she worked as an at-home rug hooker for McAdoo Rugs, a cottage industry in North Bennington, Vermont. She worked as a traveling rug hooking instructor for 26 years and also started a teacher certification program. After developing carpal tunnel syndrome and tendinitis, Amy worked with an engineer to develop her own ergonomic rug making tool, The Oxford Punch Needle, which is now celebrating its 25th anniversary. In 2013, Amy settled down and started her own school, The Oxford Rug Hooking School, in Cornwall in a 200-year-old farmhouse.

Her work includes everything from dollhouse rugs to a room-sized rug and a stair runner. She’s the author of six books on rug hooking including her latest, Punch Needle Rug Hooking - Your Complete Resource to Learn & Love the Craft, which will be released in the fall of this year by Schiffer Publishing. She lives in an off-the-grid wind and solar-powered home in Cornwall, Vermont.

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Today's episode is sponsored by WHITNEYMANNEY. WHITNEYMANNEY is a fashion and textile label creating wearable culture inspired by the aesthetics of street art and cultural movements. Through every garment and accessory, WM challenges you to wear your statement. Use code WMPOD for $10 off of orders over $50 through June 30th.

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 To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about slow stitching with my guest Samantha Hoyt.

Samantha Hoyt is the owner and creative director of A Gathering of Stitches, a series of small-scale immersive retreats in Maine for quilters and garment sewists. She has been running the Slow Stitching and Slow Fashion retreats since 2015. The business began as a Maker Space in Portland’s East Bayside neighborhood in 2013.  Before A Gathering of Stitches, Samantha was a partner with her ex-husband in Rabelais, Fine Books on Food & Wine, a culinary book store also in Portland from 2008 to today.


She was raised in New York City and had a number of careers before landing her craft role. She started with modern dance in her 20s, photography in her 20s and ’30s (including a 7-year stint as a photo editor at People magazine), and arriving in the world of food as a pastry cook before moving to Maine in 2005.

She has been sewing and knitting since childhood and has always liked to throw a good party, so the retreats make her very happy.

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This episode is sponsored by Craftsy.

Whether you’re new to making, or looking to advance skills in a favorite hobby, Craftsy is the place to learn.  

With over 1,500 classes, there’s something for everyone, from knitting and sewing, to baking and cooking, gardening, embroidery, quilting and more!  

Visit CraftsyOffers.com today to get a special holiday deal! Get a full year of Craftsy Premium Membership for just $3! That’s 97% off the regular price! Start turning ideas into projects you can be proud of. 

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

 

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about publishing books with my guest Deborah Balmuth.

Deborah retired from Storey Publishing on September 30 after 31 years with the company. She began as an editor, become editorial director in 2003, and publisher in 2013. She especially enjoyed expanding Storey's library of craft and herbal titles, working with authors including Helen Hiebert, Saffiyah Talley, Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, Kari Chapin, Thomas Knauer, Megumi Inyoue, Rosemary Gladstar, and Shannon Downey, to name a few. In her retirement, she's looking forward to becoming a consumer of Storey books, with days filled with crafting, cooking, and making.

Deborah was also on episode #47 of this show recorded nearly 10 years ago. 

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This episode is sponsored by knitCompanion.

knitCompanion is a groundbreaking app that works with ANY PATTERN. With its patented tools specially designed by fiber artists for fiber artists, it keeps track so your hands and mind can focus on making beautiful things. 

Redeem a special offer from knitCompanion:

Offer codes are usable by all new customers, and this code will provide 60 days free access to our subscription tools in Setup+Essentials. This code expires Dec 15, 2024.

 

To redeem for Apple App Store (iOS, iPhoneOS, MacOS):

1. Download the free knitCompanion app from the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/knitcompanion-knitting-more/id1058142783
2. Click this link: https://apps.apple.com/redeem?ctx=offercodes&id=1058142783&code=CRAFT60

 

To redeem for Google Play:

1. Download the free knitCompanion app from the Google Play store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.create2thrive.knitcompanion
2. Open knitCompanion and tap Upgrade on the right side.
3. Tap Subscribe button and then:
   1. Go through the checkout process until you find the payment method listed.
   2. Next to the payment method, select the down arrow, and then select Redeem code
   3. Enter the code: CRAFT60

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about creating a craft kit and workshop business with my guest Morgan Spenla.

 

Morgan is the founder & CEO of Crafter and The Crafter's Box. Crafter.com is an online home for makers offering educational videos, kits, patterns and community, The Crafter's Box is a monthly subscription exploring new crafting mediums such as printmaking, fiber arts, woodworking -- even a series of workshops in basket weaving. Today, Crafter supports artisans full circle by partnering with small business suppliers, legacy manufacturers & accomplished teachers to bring curation and quality to makers worldwide.

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Today's episode is sponsored by The Academy for Virtual Teaching.

Every solo-preneur recognizes that feeling of exhaustion. There are limited hours in the day and only one of YOU to go around. You want to scale your income but Hermione just won’t let you borrow her time travel necklace!   If you are a creative, a designer, maker, retailer, or educator, the Academy for Virtual Teaching invites you to learn how online workshops and educational videos can bring in passive income, create a loyal community of fans who are willing to support you with their dollars.   +++++

To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

Today on the show we’re talking about building a quilting business with my guest Amy Smart.

Amy has loved sewing as long as she can remember. She started quilting in earnest after the birth of her first baby 21 years ago, craving a creative outlet and something that 'stayed done' at the end of the day. While enjoying quilting as a hobby, she feels so lucky to have dovetailed this interest into a strong business. She's experienced multiple aspects of the quilting industry, including working in a local quilt shop for 10 years, starting a blog - Diary of a Quilter - in 2008, teaching locally and at large events like the Fat Quarterly retreat, QuiltCon, and Riley Blake's Garden of Quilts, writing and selling her own quilt patterns, publishing a book, and eventually designing fabric collections for Riley Blake Designs. It has been an exciting ride - full of unexpected opportunities and lots of lessons learned along the way.

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Janelle Hardy is the creator and teacher of transformational memoir-writing course The Art of Personal Mythmaking.

Sometimes it feels daunting to write your lifestory down. So let’s start sorting through and organizing all the details you need to structure your memoir inside Outline Your Memoir, a free on-demand video workshop. The workshop will take you through your vast, storied and varied life to get you started with writing it all down.

Janelle’s courses cater to highly creative curious people who have a desire to write their memoirs and heal from the difficult parts of their lifestories at the same time with her Outline Your Memoir workshop, Keep Writing circles and the Art of Personal Mythmaking. Use the coupon code CIA10 for 10% off any of Janelle Hardy’s courses, through the end of 2020.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about the art of wrapping gifts with my guest Megumi Inouye.

Megumi is a gift-wrapping and packaging artist. Known for her sustainable wrap-ping designs and creative innovations, she encourages repurposing, utilizing everyday things around us, and using organic and recyclable items. She attributes her passion for gift wrapping to her Japanese heritage and the cultural values that underlie the meaning behind the art of giving.

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This episode is sponsored by Linda's.

At Linda’s, you’ll find an extensive collection of fabrics in every color and print imaginable, as well as unique notions and embellishments to add that personal touch to your projects. They also carry quilt kits, ready to help you get started on your next masterpiece.

No matter if you are a seasoned quilter or just starting out, come join the family at Linda's. There, you can stitch the fabric of your lives, one quilt at a time.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

 

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about folk embroidery with my guest Krista West.

Krista delights in bringing ancient beauty to the modern world with embroidery designs inspired by traditional Mediterranean folk textiles. Introduced to traditional folk embroidery in Greece, she fell in love with the vibrant colors and historic motifs and began stitching textiles for her own home. She quickly realized there was still much interest in this historic craft and opened Avlea Folk Embroidery to share the beauty of folk embroidery with others.

She happily spends her days in the workshop of her 1923 home in Salem, Oregon, designing patterns and making kits for customers and shops around the world.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about quilting with my guest Victoria Findlay Wolfe.

Victoria’s work balances between art quilting, traditional & modern quilting styles, and reflects her passion for exploring the fine art of quilting in the modern age.  A farm girl raised in Minnesota, her influences are heavily based on her grandmother’s scrappy colorful double knit polyester quilts. Victoria considers her process as an artist/storyteller by incorporating memories of life, travels and nature to all that she does. 

Victoria is an international award-winning artist and quilter.  She teaches and lectures on Creativity and Process, is a fabric designer, author, and an online shop owner where she sells her own products. Her quilts have been exhibited all over the globe, including Japan, Australia, and London. And she loves her family even more than quilts!

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Today's episode is sponsored by Craftsy. Calling all crafters! Are you ready to dive deep into your favorite crafting projects and learn new techniques along the way? Then it's time to join Craftsy Premium Membership. For ONLY $1.49, you'll receive a full year of access to expert-led tutorials, patterns, and projects in every category you can imagine. With a massive library of resources at your fingertips, you'll be able to create your best work yet and bring your crafting dreams to life. Don't wait – sign up now at CraftsyOffers.com and discover the endless possibilities of Craftsy Premium Membership!

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about building a business crocheting dolls with my guest Allison Hoffman.

Allison Hoffman has been crocheting and designing fun amigurumi for over a decade, has written five crochet books, and lives in Austin, Texas with her husband and three sons. She spends her workdays crocheting weird stuff, writing down how she did it, and you can find out all about it at her website, craftyiscool.com. Her two newest books are “Crochet 'The Golden Girls'” and “‘Friends' Crochet”, both to be released Fall of 2020.

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This episode is sponsored by Timeless Treasures. Timeless Treasures is recognized for its unique novelty prints, bringing fun and playful designs to life. You can browse Timeless Treasures diverse collections, novelties, batiks, patterns, and large library of free projects on ttfabrics.com and follow us on Instagram @TimelessTreasuresFabrics. Look for Timeless Treasures next time you visit your favorite fabric store.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about collaborations with my guest Angela Smith and Liz Gipson.

Angela founded Purl & Loop in 2012 after realizing her “ladder was against the wrong wall” in her sales career and she was determined to find a calling that brought joy and creativity to the world.  While she enjoyed needle crafts, she was more focused on the idea of creating a business from them rather than actually doing them. Since she focused on operations and process in graduate school, the world of manufacturing always had a special attraction.  Purl & Loop was originally a fiber related e-commerce site.  Upon discovering the world of laser cutters in 2014, Purl & Loop moved into the business of creating portable weaving looms and accessories.  Her goal is to create fun, cute and simple weaving products to help makers use up their yarn and thread stash.  When her mind is overactive with creativity, usually in the middle of the night, she reads mystery novels........she averages about one per week.

Liz Gipson has an educational background in community development, wool science, and adult education, and a lifetime of exuberance for introducing beginners to the art and craft of weaving. She hosts a community-funded, online weaving school for rigid-heddle weavers and a resource-rich website. She has written many books about rigid-heddle weaving both self-published and for established publishers. Liz has worked for herself for the past 8 years and before that worked in the yarn trade in publishing and manufacturing. Having spent nearly 20 years in the yarn industry and more than 30 as a weaver, she really enjoys collaborating with yarn makers, tool suppliers, and fellow makers to create unique learning experiences.

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This episode is brought to you by GourmetQuilter. GourmetQuilter has been bringing original quilt patterns to the quilt world for the last 20 years, as well as many quilting tips and techniques video tutorials via GourmetQuilter on YouTube. 0nline projects are a specialty such as Block of the Day, what's in the Box Mystery quilts, Sew Alongs as well as many other delicious items. Go to www.gourmetquilter.com to learn more and use code CIA20 to receive a 20% discount on the GourmetQuilter book, That Town and Country Quilt, through Feb 29th 2020.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about creating craft studios for kids with my guest Nicola Day, owner of the kids' crafts studios, HipStitch.

Nicola has been sewing since she was 11 years old when she learned to sew at school. Sewing has always been part of her life. In college, sewing for people helped her to make money to support herself.

After college, she designed a line of pocketbooks and sold them all over the US in boutiques.

When her daughter was born, she wanted her to be as passionate about sewing but found there was no studio in my town and so she founded Hipstitch, a sewing and craft studio for children in Newton, Massachusetts.

HipStitch has been in business now for 12 years, opening its second location in Wellesley and a third location is due to open in January in Brookline. HipStitch has expanded its offerings to include knitting, crochet, and fiber arts as well as their own DIY hand and machine kits to create at home. In addition to offering classes at their studios, they offer the program offsite to 15 schools in Newton, Wellesley, Weston, Cambridge, and Brookline.

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This episode is sponsored by Divine Social. Divine Social is a marketing agency that helps eCommerce stores who sell to makers, creators, crafters, artists & DIY enthusiasts.  They are behind some of the biggest brands in the creative industry, responsible for strategies to move your online traffic from prospects to buyers to raving fans.  The team at Divine Social is offering a customized review of your shop to help you uncover what’s keeping you from selling more. Go to divinesocial.com/cia for more details. 

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about product development with my guest Jamie Trinier and Jessica Drain of SewTites.

An oil and gas engineer for most of her career, Jamie discovered the love of quilting after watching her mom sew many Halloween costumes, Christmas PJs, and quilts as a child. She started sewing when she made a king-size log cabin quilt for her husband over a decade ago. In April 2021, Jamie made her lifelong dream of owning a quilt shop come true when she purchased a long-standing Calgary quilt and fabric shop, @outofhandquilting.

A career marketer and graphic designer, Jessica has been helping businesses brand and market themselves for almost two decades. These days, Jessica spends most of her working time designing and developing new products, along with dreaming, strategizing, and managing the SewTites business as a whole. Jessica lives in Billings, Montana, with her two sons. She enjoys hand lettering, which she posts from time to time over @sassiejessiegifts, is becoming a private pilot, and hits her local CrossFit gym as much as possible. She and her family are also often found outside camping, skiing, boating, gardening, and doing all the Montana things.

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This episode is sponsored by Artistic Artifacts.

Artistic Artifacts is a creative resource for fabric, fiber, and mixed media art products sold online and in our shop in Alexandria, VA. We are an authorized BERNINA dealer and carry a full line of WonderFil Specialty Threads. Our goal is to be the source of Creative Finds for the Creative Mind — come shop with us!

We carry a wide selection of fabrics for the sewing and quilting enthusiast — modern quilting cottons, Australian Aborigine-designs, Indian, Indonesian and African prints,hand dyed and so much more — along with a variety of notions and sewing supplies. You will also find a wide selection of art supplies, and vintage finds.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about textiles as a spiritual practice with my guest Christ Johnson.

Christi Johnson's art combines cosmic visions and botanical beauties, a hypnotic dance of symbols stitched slowly and methodically into fabric. She is the woman behind Mixed Color, a textile studio providing functional pieces that are thoughtfully made. Christi also shares her skills so that others may do so themselves. Christi creates kits and booklets and leads textile art workshops to educate others on these ancient skills and share the methods of her own creative practice.

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This episode is sponsored by Dream Maker Creative. Dream Maker Creative designs and produces a monthly crafting subscription box for tweens and teens called Terra Create. Winner of a Best in Category award by Cratejoy in 2020, Terra Create kits feature quality materials along with real artisan tools and techniques to inspire the next generation of makers. New for 2021, Dream Maker Creative is now curating craft kits from other indie artisans and small businesses. These will be featured in their Bremerton, Washington boutique and website alongside their original Terra Create line of craft kits. Dream Maker Creative will also return to teaching craft workshops in the greater Seattle area. Follow them on Social: Facebook | Instagram

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about activism with my guest Omakri Williams.

Omkari Williams is the Gold Nautilus award-winning author of Micro Activism: How You Can Make a Difference in the World (Without A Bullhorn). Her book helps readers identify their “activist archetype" and map a personal action plan for engaging in small, change-making activities with potentially big impacts.

She has worked as an actor, political consultant, and coach. Now she welcomes all people into the world of micro activism, a sustainable path to change-making based upon honoring the inherent dignity of all people. 

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast we're talking about​ building a business in rug hooking with my guest Rose Pearlman.

Rose is an artist and teacher who focuses on textile design. Her workshops center on ways of making beautiful home objects with simple, inexpensive materials. As the daughter of two artists, her parents taught her to value a life filled with creating, tinkering, and playing. She lives in New York City with her family.

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This episode is sponsored by Darice.

With over 45,000 arts and crafts items across hundreds of product categories, Darice is your one-stop source for wholesale supplies for your craft hobby, business or store.

Whether you make items to sell at craft fairs and your Etsy shop or you teach workshops or make craft kits to sell, find all the supplies and products you need for your handmade business. Darice is offering an exclusive promotion for Craft Industry Alliance listeners. Visit Darice.com and use promo code CIA15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Offer valid through 2/29/20.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about fashion design with my guest Whitney Manney.

A Kansas City, Missouri native, Whitney Manney graduated from the Kansas City Art Institute in 2012 with a BFA in Fibers. With a desire to create art in a wearable format, Manney creates garments and textile designs under her independent label WHITNEYMANNEY. Manney's work has been featured in major press outlets and numerous art and fashion blogs. She is featured in the PBS show Make48 & My World Too and has work featured in the new Peacock series Bel-Air.

Manney is a member of the 2021 American Craft Council Emerging Artists Cohort and recipient of the 2020 JOANN Minority Creative Grant along with numerous other grants. Her collections have been retailed at boutiques including Halls Kansas City, and showcased in more than a dozen runway and gallery shows. Creating a narrative between color and pattern is a signature of Manney's work. She believes her job isn't done until everybody in the world believes fashion is art."

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Today's episode is sponsored by Craftsy. Whether you’re new to making, or looking to advance skills in a favorite hobby, Craftsy is the place to learn.  

With over 1,500 classes, there’s something for everyone, from knitting and sewing, to baking and cooking, gardening, embroidery, quilting and more!  

Visit CraftsyOffers.com today and get a full year of Craftsy Premium Membership for just $3! That’s 97% off the regular price! Start turning ideas into projects you can be proud of. 

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about owning a yarn store with my guest Sara Ingle.

Sara founded Boston Fiber Company, a local yarn store in Boston’s South End neighborhood, in 2022. Now finishing its second year, the store focuses on indie-dyed yarn, supporting local crafters, and fostering a strong community through numerous low-cost and free events and groups. The Boston Fiber Company team, currently consisting of three people, is dedicated to making fiber arts accessible to all. Looking ahead, Sara and her team are working on organizing a fiber festival for the neighborhood and will dye their own yarn to offer to customers.

 

I was so pleased to be able to visit Boston Fiber Company in person to record this interview.

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Today's episode is sponsored by Big Cartel.

Are you ready to turn your creativity into a business and sell your work online? Big Cartel is an ecommerce platform where artists, crafters, and independent sellers make money doing what they love. With no listing fees or commission, budget-friendly plans, and real human customer support, Big Cartel makes it simple and affordable to start and grow your creative business online.

Open your store on the free plan - no credit card required - and scale as you grow. Visit bigcartel.com/craftindustryalliance to get started.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

 

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about creating a subscription box with Cheryl Ham.

Cheryl Ham is a self-taught knitter who learned the craft with a bit of help from YouTube and a pair of her mother’s long-forgotten and slightly bent, size 9 needles. Cheryl is also the owner of Hypnotic Yarn, which came to life in 2017 after discovering the existence of hand-dyed yarn while watching knitting podcasts. Later, Cheryl founded Yarnable, a monthly hand-dyed yarn subscription that encourages self-care through the joy of knitting. When she's not playing with color in her Southern New Hampshire studio, Cheryl can be found snuggling with her two Chihuahuas. 

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This episode is sponsored by Search Press.

For over 50 years, Search Press has delighted crafters with books on knitting, crochet, sewing, quilting, fiber crafts, painting, and drawing. If you want to try a new craft or improve your skills, Search Press has detailed instruction books for you. If you would like to learn more about selling Search Press books in your store or on your website, check out our website searchpressusa.com.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about building a business in knitting with my guest Gaye Glasspie.

Gaye Glasspie a.k.a GGmadeit better known as GG is a 50-something-year-old who fell in love with knitting late in life - in just the last 9 or 10 years. 

She is self-taught via YouTube and some wonderfully friendly yarn stores and she is obsessed with all things orange. GG discovered knitting during a very challenging time in her life -knitting is her ride or die, her BFF, her kind of therapy. Knitting has also become a beautiful bridge into a world of wonderful people and a way to universally connect with others.

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Today's episode is sponsored by Alive with Purpose. Alive with Purpose provides beautiful, high-quality hand-dyed yarns for a cause: a portion of all sales proceeds benefits mental health supporting organizations in Minnesota. While the name doesn’t necessarily “scream” yarn, your purchase will effectively reaffirm that all persons, regardless of diagnosis, are indeed, “Alive with Purpose”.  From now through August 31st, enter coupon code CIA2020 for a 15% discount on any purchase! Go to alivewithpurpose.org to learn more. 

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about writing technical instructions with my guests Sarah Walworth and Kristina McGrath.

Kristina and Sarah are yarn pattern technical editors, consultants, and coaches in the fiber industry. They have edited over 1000 knitting patterns between them. Since 2020, they have hosted Tech Tip Talk, a monthly broadcast about pattern writing and knitting design, and have written a handbook for knitting designers. They are committed to improving access to industry knowledge, helping designers create patterns that fit every size body well, to fully deliver on the promise to the maker. You can find them at techtiptalk.com

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This episode is sponsored by Craftsy.

Calling all crafters! Are you ready to dive deep into your favorite crafting projects and learn new techniques along the way? Then it's time to join Craftsy Premium Membership. For ONLY $1.49, you'll receive a full year of access to expert-led tutorials, patterns, and projects in every category you can imagine. With a massive library of resources at your fingertips, you'll be able to create your best work yet and bring your crafting dreams to life. Don't wait – sign up now at CraftsyOffers.com and discover the endless possibilities of Craftsy Premium Membership!

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about owning a local yarn shop with my guest, Ana Campos.

Ana is a Brazilian knitting instructor, fiber witch, and designer with over 20 years of knitting experience. She currently makes her home by the sea in Salem, Massachusetts, known as the Witch City. As a Latina and an immigrant, she values the opportunities for connection, community, and common ground that knitting creates. Ana’s love for the knitting community led her to open Circle of Stitches, the witchiest yarn shop, in 2015. Her focus is on empowering knitters to grow their skills and technical knowledge, so everyone can make pieces they love. She is passionate about teaching students how to customize patterns for the perfect fit. She also loves teaching Portuguese knitting, which reminds her of her grandma Tina back home in Rio, and hosting her monthly tarot study group.   Ana is an inaugural member of the Vogue Knitting Diversity Advisory Council, and a co-creator of Latines y Lana, an ongoing project to elevate and share the work of Latine fiber artists. Ana loves helping folks find inspiration and expand their skills, and her favorite projects are sweaters and socks.   

When she is not at her shop, you can find her elbows-deep in her dye pots. Growing up in the tropics gave her a lifelong passion for bright colors and bold combinations, which she brings to her line of hand-dyed yarns, Toil & Trouble. She loves dyeing colorful sock yarns, and hopes this book will help you fall in love with socks too! Find Ana online at www.circleofstitches.com, on Instagram @circleofstitches and visit her store in person at 66 Wharf Street, Salem, MA.

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This episode is sponsored by Craftsy.

Whether you’re new to making, or looking to advance skills in a favorite hobby, Craftsy is the place to learn.  

With over 1,500 classes, there’s something for everyone, from knitting and sewing, to baking and cooking, gardening, embroidery, quilting and more!  

Visit CraftsyOffers.com today and get a full year of Craftsy Premium Membership for just $3! That’s 97% off the regular price! Start turning ideas into projects you can be proud of. 

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about building an audience as a sewing blogger with my guest Alexis Bailey.

Alexis is a DIY sewing blogger, sewist, and recently handsewist. She is passionate about sustainability, intentional making, and natural fibers. Entering the online sewing scene in 2017, Alexis has built a truly impressive audience in a short time and created a blossoming business out of her passion as well.

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This episode is sponsored by Makerist. Makerist is your new favorite online craft destination and Europe’s largest online pattern marketplace, and now they’re expanding into the global market to bring their huge selection of PDF sewing, knitting, crochet, and embroidery patterns to crafters everywhere! 

Take 20% off your first purchase for any full-price patterns with the coupon code CA20. The coupon is applied at checkout.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcas,t we're talking about running a brick-building a business in crochet with my guest, Twinkie Chan.

Twinkie is a San-Francisco based crochet designer and instructor known for her colorful, food-themed accessories like cupcake scarves, hamburger mitts, and slushee cup purses. She has two published crochet books and currently has a crochet installation on view at Sweet Tooth Hotel in Dallas, TX.

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This episode is sponsored by Muezart, unique, natural, sustainable yarn & fibers. For makers who love to create. Muezart is a small yarn and fiber company that works closely with women partners in the villages of Meghalaya. Muezart's mission is to promote Eri silk, a unique, natural, and sustainable fiber known to have the world's smallest carbon footprint, to the makers of the world.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about buttons with my guest Beau McCall.

Proclaimed by American Craft magazine as “The Button Man,” Beau McCall creates wearable and visual art by applying clothing buttons onto mostly upcycled fabrics, materials, and objects. His artworks offer commentary on topics such as pop culture and social justice. On March 30th his first-ever retrospective exhibition debuts at Fuller Craft Museum titled, Beau McCall: Buttons On! 

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Calling all crafters! Are you ready to dive deep into your favorite crafting projects and learn new techniques along the way? Then it's time to join Craftsy Premium Membership. March is National Craft Month. Take advantage of this special promotion! For ONLY $1.49, you'll receive a full year of access to expert-led tutorials, patterns, and projects in every category you can imagine. With a massive library of resources at your fingertips, you'll be able to create your best work yet and bring your crafting dreams to life. Don't wait – sign up now at CraftsyOffers.com and discover the endless possibilities of Craftsy Premium Membership!

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about business pivots with my guest Kristi Schroeder Larson.

Texas native Kristi Schroeder Larson is the creator of Initial K Studio, offering modern quilt patterns and needlepoint designs to the market. Her designs are inspired by travel as well as by putting her modern twist on classic quilt blocks.

Kristi’s book Southwest Modern was published by Lucky Spool Media in 2017, blending a quilting book with a travelogue in the form of a beautiful coffee table book. You can follow her daily life with her two young sons and product development on Instagram @initialkstudio

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Today’s podcast is brought to you by Schiffer Craft. Since 1973, Schiffer Publishing has provided the craft industry with world-renowned authors and insightful books. With topics ranging from ceramics to fiber and textiles, floral design, glass art, wood working, metal craft, and more. Turn to Schiffer Craft for expert knowledge and inspiration!

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about creating a best-selling art and illustration company with my guest, Mary Engelbreit.

Over 40 years ago, Mary Engelbreit launched her own company with a strong desire for creative freedom and a line of 12 greeting cards. The head of a highly successful business bearing her name, Mary is one of the country’s premier designers and artists. She is known throughout the world for her distinctive illustration style and design sensibility, modestly referred to as “eclectic traditional”. Mary’s signature art, imbued with spirited wit and warmth, appears on thousands of products, including greeting cards, books (design, gift, children’s, cooking, home, and art), calendars, stationery, fabric, crafts, kitchen accessories, dinnerware, and other home décor items.

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Today's episode is sponsored by Eucalan. “Looking for the best way to care for your handmade and delicate items? Eucalan Delicate Wash is a no-rinse, eco-friendly laundry solution designed for knitwear, quilts, embellished garments, and more. With five gentle scents and a formula that extends the life of your fabrics, Eucalan is a must-have for knitters and crafters alike. Learn more at Eucalan.com

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

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On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about collage and mixed media with my guest Drew Steinbrecher.

Drew has enjoyed working with his hands and being creative from a young age. He has a university degree in graphic design. Along with being a full-time artist he is also freelance graphic designer. He's an avid knitter, photographer, and traveler. He currently lives in Cincinnati with his partner Greg and their Schnauzer Fred. 

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Today's episode is sponsored by Craftsy. Calling all crafters! Are you ready to dive deep into your favorite crafting projects and learn new techniques along the way? Then it's time to join Craftsy Premium Membership. For ONLY $1.49, you'll receive a full year of access to expert-led tutorials, patterns, and projects in every category you can imagine. With a massive library of resources at your fingertips, you'll be able to create your best work yet and bring your crafting dreams to life. Don't wait – sign up now at CraftsyOffers.com and discover the endless possibilities of Craftsy Premium Membership!

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about building a business in bag making with my guest Ellie Lum.

Ellie Lum is an accomplished creative entrepreneur, artist, and skill-building educator based out of Portland, Oregon. Ellie’s passion lies at the intersection of education, art, creative business, and environmental justice. Along with her passion for creating, she is deeply committed to sharing her skills with those who want to learn.

As a business owner of 20 years in a craftsman-based business, R.E. Load Bags, she has honed her skills as a leader and teacher instructing those who worked with her how to master the craft of industrial sewing as well as small business management. She graduated from UC Berkeley with a B.S. in Ecoliteracy, where she studied adult hands-on learning theory in garden education. For the past few years, she’s been teaching sewing and mentoring folks on their creative business ventures through her DIY Workshop and handmade goods brand, Klum House.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about running an indie craft show with my guest Tricia Brancolini-Foley, the Executive Director of Handmade Arcade.

Tricia believes in the power of making things by hand. She has been a maker and crafter her entire life. She started at Handmade Arcade in 2010 as a volunteer and in 2014, she spearheaded the organization’s transition from a volunteer-run LLC to an official 501(c)3 and became its Executive Director. Since then she’s grown its budget significantly and doubling the number of makers the organization serves. During COVID Tricia successfully guided Handmade Arcade through the process of creating a virtual craft fair, which we’ll talk about. Supporting and participating in the arts continues to be a central theme in all aspects of Tricia’s life. She is on the board of directors for the Brentwood Library, has volunteered for ten years as a Girl Scout leader, and is continuously creating new collaborations with artists, small businesses, and other nonprofit groups to bolster Pittsburgh’s maker community.

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This episode is sponsored by OnlineLabels.com. OnlineLabels.com gives business owners the flexibility to design and print their own labels. They have 1000s of sizes so finding the label for your job couldn't be easier - whether it's a shipping label or a product label. The best part is, they have no minimum orders and bulk pricing so you can order as few as 1 sheet. Visit onlinelabels.com/craftindustryalliancepodcast today for an exclusive $10 off your next purchase of $25 or more.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about building a group of craft brands with my guests Mark Hyland and Ursula Morgan.

Mark Hyland is the CEO of Premier Needle Arts. He's a seasoned marketing, sales, and corporate executive with 30+ years of experience building brands and successful organizations. Mark’s hands-on leadership style found him in various leadership positions implementing strategic direction and execution guidance at multi-million to billion-dollar brands and companies during his career. Today, Mark continues to provide his leadership to the brands and companies of Premier Needle Arts, where is focusing on growth initiatives, long-term strategy, and M&A opportunities within the needle arts world.

Ursula Morgan is the Chief Marketing Officer at Crafts Group. Ursula is a global award-winning seasoned technology and craft business executive. Before joining Crafts Group in January 2020, Ursula led the digital innovation and marketing team as Senior Vice President at CSS Industries. Previously Ursula held the CEO role at Creativebug, a Subscription Video On Demand platform, and led the acquisition of Creativebug by JOANN Fabric and Craft Stores in 2017.

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This episode is sponsored by Wool and Waves. Wool & Waves is an online yarn, needles and notions shop. Based on Vancouver Island, they offer a wide variety of Canadian Indie Dyed yarns and products from a host of talented small businesses. They’re crafters too and can help you make your project dreams come true! Listeners can save 15% off regular priced yarn, needles, and notions with code CIA15 until November 30, 2021. Visit them at woolandwaves.com or Yarn.ca

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

Today on the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about building a knitting business with my guest Safiyyah Talley.

Safiyyah is the creator of the popular blog thedrunkknitter.com. She has an independent Ravelry store, hosts a podcast, and her design work has been featured in online publications such as The Bobble Club, The Fiber Company, LoveKnitting, and Darn Good Yarn—and in Warm Hands, a book of knitting patterns. She teaches knitting classes virtually and at knitting shows including Vogue Knitting Live. Safiyyah's new book, 2 Socks in 1, comes out this year with Storey Publishing. Safiyyah lives in Indiana.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast we're talking about creating a sewing business with my guest Jess Barrera of Sallie Tomato.

Jessica is an author, designer, educator, and entrepreneur who has been creatively sewing and crafting since the age of five. She studied entrepreneurship at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, and now operates her own sewing pattern and supply company, Sallie Tomato. Her innovative designs and products aim to attract the next generations of sewing enthusiasts while appealing to current makers. Aside from running a business, she’s a mom of two boys, loves coffee, home decorating, boutique shopping, traveling, yoga, being outdoors, and is a fan of classic, black and white movies.

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Today's episode is sponsored by The Handmade Book Club.

The Handmade Book Club is a vibrant community of crafters who create their own handmade journals using modern materials and traditional techniques. Learn to combine your love of hand stitching and fabric into your own custom journals. Join our free Bookbinding Book Camp at www.handmadebookclub.com

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

Today on the show we’re talking about sewing glamor with my guest Gretchen Hirsch.

Specializing in vintage glamour, Gretchen “Gertie” Hirsch is a designer who infuses her passion for sewing into glamorous creations that can be customized for anyone. She got her start as a blogger with the popular Gertie’s New Blog for Better Sewing, and has collaborated with Butterick and Simplicity on the “Patterns by Gertie” line of sewing patterns, and designed fabrics for Joann Fabrics, Spotlight Stores and Michael Miller. A sought-after instructor, Gertie has traveled the world to lead sewing workshops highlighting her techniques.

In 2017, Gertie launched her own independent sewing pattern line called Charm Patterns, focusing on new women's clothing designs inspired by classic looks from the ‘40s and ‘50s. In 2020, she launched her Patreon subscription service, which includes monthly downloadable patterns and accompanying video tutorials, virtual sewing circles, live streams, and more. It has amassed a large community of passionate sewing enthusiasts from around the world.

She is the author of five books published by Abrams, including Gertie Sews Jiffy Dresses, Gertie’s Ultimate Dress Book and Gertie’s New Book for Better Sewing, with two new books due to come out in Spring 2024 and Spring 2025.

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This episode is sponsored by Craftsy. Whether you’re new to making, or looking to advance skills in a favorite hobby, Craftsy is the place to learn.  

With over 1,500 classes, there’s something for everyone, from knitting and sewing, to baking and cooking, gardening, embroidery, quilting and more!  

Visit CraftsyOffers.com today and get a full year of Craftsy Premium Membership for just $3! That’s 97% off the regular price! Start turning ideas into projects you can be proud of. 

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about paint-by-numbers with my guest Rachel Austen.

Rachel has a background in graphic and web design. She founded her paint-by-number kit company - Elle Crée - in 2017 out of her desire to create a nostalgic product from her illustrations that customers could interact with and that would spur their own creativity. 

Rachel’s company seeks to reduce its impact on the environment by carefully sourcing eco-friendly components that are locally- and USA-made whenever possible. Elle Crée’s custom paint colors are mixed from USA-made acrylic, and their kits are assembled with the help of a small staff in Portland, Oregon. 

Elle Crée’s kits made O Magazine’s list of best Made in America products in the summer of 2021. In 2023, Rachel launched successful collaborations with iconic illustrator Mary Engelbreit and Academy Award nominated film studio, LAIKA. 

In the past 7 years, Elle Crée has become a premier manufacturer of American-made kits, being sold in over 500 gift shops nationwide. 

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This episode is sponsored by The Academy for Virtual Teaching, a community of creative entrepreneurs, building proficient, profitable, and professional online teaching businesses.

In the Academy for Virtual Teaching’s Pro-Membership they can help you develop the skills needed to organize, film, edit, and add online education to your business model. They invite you to join their community of supportive colleagues as they share their creativity with students around the world.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about YouTube with my guest Laura Coia.

Laura is the host and creator of the YouTube channel Sew Very Easy. The channel has 454,000 subscribers and 976 videos that she’s produced over the last nine years, all focused on sewing and quilting. Laura has over 45 years of sewing experience. She’s written for several sewing and quilting magazines, written two books with C&T publishing, and was awarded the Silver YouTube Award from YouTube. 

Laura’s teaching style is relaxed and encouraging to novices and experienced sewists alike. Her goal is for viewers to simply spend more quality time in the sewing room.

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Today’s episode is sponsored by Twice Sheared Sheep - a knitting tools brand making intelligently designed tools to save you brain power so that you can knit more and frog less.   Never question if you marked that row again with Twice Sheared Sheep’s signature chain row counters.   Accurately keep track of every row without clicking, tallying, or waking up your phone. You don’t even need to take your hands off the needles.  See the entire selection of row counters, and brain saving gadgets at Twiceshearedsheep.com Podcast listeners can take 20% off their first order by using the coupon code CRAFTINDUSTRYTHANKS . +++++  

To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about yarn bombing with my guest London Kaye.

Born in Los Angeles, California, London received her BFA in dance from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts. After graduating London realized that her love for crochet, and unexpected joy, came together harmoniously when she began using crochet to interact with the environment and surrounding community. She began installing art daily on the streets of Brooklyn and New York City.

Through her time leading workshops and teaching crochet, London came to realize the best qualities of her favorite crochet hooks and combined them together using 3D printing technology to create a unique new style “Crochet Hook with a Twist.” She received a patent for the design. London’s career has expanded to collaborating with brands like Starbucks, The Gap, Disney, and The Kelly Clarkson Show. Her book is out now, Crochet with London Kaye.

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Today’s podcast is brought to you by Schiffer Craft—An imprint of Schiffer Publishing. Schiffer Craft’s books provide expert knowledge and inspiration on topics ranging from ceramics to fiber and textiles, floral design, glass art, wood working, metalcraft, leather, and more. Follow @schiffercraft on Facebook and Instagram to unlock your inspiration!

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

In this special episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we are very excited to bring you a recording of our Day 3 keynote at h+h americas 2023, a fireside chat with Justine Tiu, co-founder of The Woobles. 

The Woobles is a company that makes learn-to-crochet kits for complete beginners. Through The Woobles, Justine has taught over 200,000 people how to crochet. Before starting The Woobles, Justine was a User Experience Designer at Google. Drawing on her background in user research and product design, she creates easy-to-follow and aesthetically pleasing experiences for the beginner crocheter.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about surface pattern design with my guest Elizabeth Silver.

Elizabeth is a professional surface pattern designer with 20 years in the industry. Her colorful patterns and illustrations are regularly featured in major retailers like Target, Michaels, and Walmart and she licenses with over 30 partners. She uses her experience in numerous product categories to teach beginner surface pattern designers how to move past overwhelm and obstacles to create a profitable creative business through courses, YouTube, and blog content.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

In this interview, we’re taking a deep dive into creative embroidery with our guest, Nancy Mac. Nancy is the founder and owner of Freon Collective, an eco-conscious, minimalistic beauty and lifestyle brand. “Freon” comes from old English, meaning “friends or friendship and she’s incorporated all facets of her interests in beauty, design, and art into this label.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about marketing, retail, and stationery with my guest Lauren Tilden.

 Lauren is a marketing coach for small business owners struggling to consistently market their businesses. Also a maker, retail shop owner, and podcast host, she’s on a mission to help small businesses do better marketing so they can make a bigger impact on the world. An ex-corporate marketer, Lauren fell in love with small business through her first small business, the plant-inspired stationery business Good Sheila. A couple of years after starting Good Sheila, she took the reins of her mom's Seattle retail shop, Station 7. As of 2020, she hosts Making Good, a podcast for small businesses who want to make a big impact.

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This episode is sponsored by Craftsy.

Calling all crafters! Are you ready to dive deep into your favorite crafting projects and learn new techniques along the way? Then it's time to join Craftsy Premium Membership. March is National Craft Month. Take advantage of this special promotion! For ONLY $1.49, you'll receive a full year of access to expert-led tutorials, patterns, and projects in every category you can imagine. With a massive library of resources at your fingertips, you'll be able to create your best work yet and bring your crafting dreams to life. Don't wait – sign up now at CraftsyOffers.com and discover the endless possibilities of Craftsy Premium Membership!

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

Today we are replaying an episode that originally aired a few years ago.

We learned this evening about the passing of Melanie Ham. Melanie was truly a bright light in the craft world. Her warm, smile welcomed everyone to learn from her craft videos, whether it was crochet, sewing, or quilting. Melanie was also a wife and mother.

I was lucky enough to interview Melanie in February of 2018 and wanted to replay that interview today as a way to celebrate her life. Listeners may note that the podcast had its former name and theme music when this episode aired. Thank you for listening. I hope this interview is a small way to honor Melanie Ham’s legacy.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about running a brick-and-mortar yarn shop with my guest, Annissa Essaibi-George.

Annissa is the owner of Stitch House. She taught at East Boston High School for 13 years before being elected to the Boston City Council. In 2021 she ran for Mayor of Boston.

Annissa recently served as CEO and president of the Big Sister Association of Greater Boston and now is the Partnership Advisor for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts. Annissa is a mom to 4 great boys 20-year-old Douglas and 18-year-old triplets Charlie, Kayden, and Samir. Annissa and her husband Doug are both lifelong residents of Dorchester and live just up the street from the Stitch House.

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This episode is sponsored by Thinkific, the easiest way to turn your crafting expertise into an online education business. Whether you're teaching painting, quilting, jewelry making, or any other craft, Thinkific makes it simple to share your skills, grow your audience, and generate a new income stream. Start your free trial today at Thinkific.com.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast​, we’re talking about creating a community space for crafters with my guest Leigh Metcalf.

Leigh is the owner of Topstitch Studio and Lounge in Atlanta, GA, a fabric and sewing studio (formerly an in-person physical space at Ponce City Market), author of London Stitch and Knit, A craft lover's guide to London's fabric, knitting and haberdashery shops, and she's also the host of the online sewcial community, Topstitch Makers.

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This episode is sponsored by C&T Publishing. C&T Publishing has a bit of everything for every maker! Quilting, sewing, cosplay, embroidery books and products... and so much more. On their podcast, Behind the Seams, C&T bring on their world-class authors who share their creative journeys and crafty tips & tricks to inspire. Explore C&T Publishing and their podcast by visiting online at ctpub.com. Take 25% off anything you fancy using code whileshenaps25. 

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about creating a textile magazine with my guest Polly Leonard.

Polly Leonard is the Founder of Selvedge, an internationally renowned textile magazine that was launched in 2003 and now has almost one hundred issues to its name.

From its modest beginning on Polly’s kitchen table, the magazine revolutionized the way textiles are presented and quickly became the world’s leading textile publication. It now has a readership of over 75,000 and a dedicated international following. As well as a magazine, Polly has since launched an online artisan emporium, as well as The Selvedge World Fair and creative collaborations with the likes of Liberty, Anthropologie, The National Trust, and the V&A.  

Polly has specialist knowledge in all aspects of textiles, with a particular interest in the role textiles have played in the evolution of humanity. Her own textile practice encompasses using weaving embroidery and basket making to produce sculptures. She has taught and lectured around the world. Selvedge combines her passions for social history, fine art, and craft. 

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Today's episode is sponsored by h+h cologne @ home - 100 % digital From 26 to 28 March 2021, Koelnmesse will present the latest trends and product innovations as part of the new, comprehensive h+h cologne @home digital marketplace. you will find all fully updated information about your participation possibilities, new contents and prices of the digital h+h cologne 2021 in the coming weeks on www.hh-cologne.com

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

 

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about owning a yarn shop with my guest Cadence Kidwell.

Before Cadence opened her yarn shop, Fuzzy Goat, she was at Florida State University – where she taught Creative Writing, Multicultural Literature and designed a certificate program for students to develop cultural competencies. University life instilled a strong core of service to people seeking to improve their lives.

One of her favorite pieces in her yarn shop is a SERVICE sign over the counter, announcing that the team is there to serve. In her mid 50’s Cadence decided that she could either steady-on into her last decade of university life or she could join the makers’ life – make a business from a rough-worn building & fill it with beautiful yarns made by strong women. Something she learned at FSU was the value of conversation among those that see the world differently – something that used to happen at, say, bowling leagues, and is disappearing in our lives.

Cadence believes that knitting creates that space where conversation across generations and life experiences is valued and sought after. 

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This episode is sponsored by Craftsy. Calling all crafters! Are you ready to dive deep into your favorite crafting projects and learn new techniques along the way? Then it's time to join Craftsy Premium Membership. For ONLY $1.49, you'll receive a full year of access to expert-led tutorials, patterns, and projects in every category you can imagine. With a massive library of resources at your fingertips, you'll be able to create your best work yet and bring your crafting dreams to life. Don't wait – sign up now at CraftsyOffers.com and discover the endless possibilities of Craftsy Premium Membership.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about craft fairs and plush taxidermy with my guest, Jen Gubicza.

Jen is the designer and maker behind the handmade brand Zooguu. She graduated with a BFA in graphic design from Massachusetts Institute College of Art in 2001 and worked as a graphic designer and creative director at Big Blue Dot and the Boston Children’s Museum. In 2004, Jen started designing and sewing her own creatures as a hobby to get back to the enjoyment she feels when making things by hand vs. mainly on a computer. With the evolution of online selling tools like Etsy & the growth of the Maker movement, Jen made the decision to go full-time with Zooguu in 2008. Together with her husband Brian, who is an illustrator, Jen sells her work at fine art + craft shows, conventions, online, and in small shops throughout the United States. Jen has also contributed soft sculpture to gallery shows, designed and produced custom toys and sculptures for corporate clients, and created the Lockheed puppet for the X-Men New Mutants film. The Zooguu Studio is a 1200 sq. ft. space located on the island of Nahant, MA.

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Calling all crafters! Are you ready to dive deep into your favorite crafting projects and learn new techniques along the way? Then it's time to join Craftsy Premium Membership. For ONLY $1.49, you'll receive a full year of access to expert-led tutorials, patterns, and projects in every category you can imagine. With a massive library of resources at your fingertips, you'll be able to create your best work yet and bring your crafting dreams to life. Don't wait – sign up now at CraftsyOffers.com and discover the endless possibilities of Craftsy Premium Membership!

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

 On this episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about building a career bringing people together through yarn with my guest Shelley Brander.

After a successful career as a copywriter and broadcast producer, creating campaigns for brands like AT&T and Hard Rock, Shelley Brander followed her passion and started an improbable "side hustle"—she opened a local yarn store. She and her team of Loops Troops have since grown Loops into a global brand that's on the forefront of the modern maker movement, and includes LoopsLove.com, LoopsClub.com and Knit Stars, a global, online learning adventure. She's on a mission to Knit the World Together. Her second book, Move the Needle: Yarns from an Unlikely Entrepreneur is a Wall Street Journal best-seller. She lives in Tulsa with her husband and at least three dogs, and has three very creative, grown children.

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This episode is sponsored by Esther’s Fabrics. Esther's Fabrics is located on Bainbridge Island, just a short ferry ride from Seattle. Since 1959, Esther’s has offered old fashion service with a modern sensibility. They offer a range of sewing and crafting supplies including modern quilting cottons, gorgeous apparel fabric, knitting yarns and embroidery supplies and more. They buy what they love, and they think you'll love it too. Esther’s is also online at esthersfabrics.com.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

Today we’re excited to bring you the State of the Industry Panel discussion that took place at h+h americas, a new trade show for crafts industry that took place in Chicago June 22-24, 2022. h+h americas is presented by Koelnmesse Inc., one of the world’s largest trade show organizations, as you’ll hear me mention in the opening remarks. For the first time, this show came to North America and Craft Industry Alliance was the strategic partner.

 

What you’re about to listen to was the kickoff event, a panel discussion focusing on the crafts industry, where it’s come from, where it is now, and what the future holds. There were four speakers: Vickie Howell, Maureen Miller, Trisha Malcolm, and David Gilliver. I moderated the panel and I’m pleased to bring it to you in audio format for the podcast. So, here it is. I hope you enjoy it.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast we're talking about quilting as creative expression with my guest Zak Foster.

Raised in rural North Carolina and now living in Brooklyn, New York, Zak is a self-taught artist whose work draws on Southern textile traditions while incorporating found fabrics and natural dyes with an eye for sustainability. He practices an approach to design that is intuitive and improvisational and he is drawn to preserving the stories of quilts and specializes in memory quilts and burial quilts. His work has been featured in various magazines, websites, and galleries. His online community, The Quilty Nook, connects and inspires quilters all over the world.

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This episode is sponsored by the Academy for Virtual Teaching, a vibrant community of aspiring and experienced creative arts teachers. There you’ll find virtual teachers hosting practice teaching sessions and gaining valuable feedback from their peers, monthly live open-topic roundtables, guest seminars, professional development courses, and other activities designed to help you be a more proficient, profitable, and professional online teacher. Join our community to learn how you can increase your income without increasing your workload. Craft Industry Alliance members can use this link for a permanent 20% discount on Academy membership.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast we're talking about knitwear design with my guest, Julie Robinson.

A more inclusive fiber industry isn’t just possible, it’s a necessity. 

Designer and educator Julie Robinson is leading through example. Julie is known for publishing fashion-forward knitting patterns in an inclusive size range. And her courses on the creative and technical aspects of knitwear design are training a new generation of technical editors and knitwear designers how to do the same.

Julie spent over a decade in New York City as a fashion designer and product developer for top brands. A life-long crafter, Julie was inspired to pursue a career in fashion to learn everything she could about making clothes. Her curiosity has led her to work on a wide variety of products including sweaters (of course), dresses, socks, and even augmented reality costumes. 

Now she’s sharing what she has learned from her career in fashion with fellow fiber enthusiasts.

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Today's episode is sponsored by The Academy for Virtual Teaching.

A community of creatives, building proficient, profitable, and professional online teaching businesses.     Adding online education into your business is a no-brainer for adding passive income, but what if you are tech-challenged? What equipment do you really need and how do you use it? How do you edit video? Where do you find an audience if you are a beginner? It can be overwhelming.    Take a deep breath, relax, and let the Academy for Virtual Teaching walk you through every step of the process. Our Virtual Teaching Masterclass starts on September 12th. It’s a live, hands-on course with all the information you need in one place. We have a plethora of practical tutorials on HOW to use all that technology along with weekly coaching sessions at different times to accommodate international time zones. We include extra lessons on marketing, website development, and business organization and administration. There is so much there that even experienced online teachers will find lots of ways to up their virtual teaching game.   Head over now to a4vt.com and see what we have to offer. That’s A, the number 4, V, T .com. Come join the most supportive community you can imagine, and start building a business teaching what you love.   +++++  

To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about the art of quilting with my guest Andrea Tsang Jackson.

 

Andrea is a textile artist, quilt designer, author, and educator based in Halifax, Nova Scotia Canada. After working in various design fields and settings ranging from architecture to museums, the quilting medium called to her as a way to explore place, belonging, and agency.

Andrea pushes the limits of quilting and textiles by exploring scale and dimension and moving traditionally domestic objects into the public realm. Her work often celebrates community and collaboration, and explores ideas of belonging. The rich history of quilting also heavily influences her practice; she sees it as an extension of community across time.

Andrea is working on her second book, Quilting: A Journey to Self, which will be released with Nine Ten Publications in early 2025.

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Today’s episode is sponsored by Creative Crochet Corner. Creative Crochet Corner is the  place to go to take your crochet skills to the next level. With how-to videos, patterns and projects for every level, you can learn everything you need from professional instructors. You can get a full year of Premium Membership to Creative Crochet Corner now for only $1.49

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about building a knitting business with my guest Willie Smith.

 

Willie Smith discovered knitting in 2007. He believes he’s been given a gift to entertain while teaching and his purpose is to spend his life enriching other people’s lives. Knitting is the vehicle he is using to achieve that end. Willie’s vision is for makers to get closer to making exactly what they want through the acquisition of a skill set. Willis is the owner of WNK and he aims for that brand to soon be a household name.

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Today's episode is sponsored by Artistic Artifacts. 

Artistic Artifacts specializes in Creative Finds for Creative Minds. Shop a wide variety of fabrics, BERNINA machines and products, plus the tools and techniques to enjoy a full range of fiber arts and mixed media. Visit our store in Alexandria, VA or shop securely online at www.ArtisticArtifacts.com

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's Craft Industry Alliance podcast episode, we’re talking about building a values-based business with my guests Meg and Patrick McElwee.

Meg started sewing after finishing an undergraduate degree in philosophy and a graduate degree in education. While living and teaching in rural Mexico for three years, she studied pattern drafting and made her own clothes - first out of necessity, then because of the sense of empowerment and joy it brought to her life. The meditative act of stitching continues to bring her a deep sense of well-being.

Her passion for slow fashion has expanded over the years to include the Sew Liberated sewing pattern line, two books, a sewing course with Craftsy, and her own online course, The Mindful Wardrobe Project. She enjoys supporting the slow stitching community through blog, her popular Instagram account, as well as live classes from time to time.

Patrick has been Meg's best friend and partner since they met in French class at age 19. A historian, computer programmer, and breakdancer, Patrick manages the technical and business side of Sew Liberated and is often the one behind the camera.

Meg and Patrick have three kids, three cats, a dog, and the incredible luck to be able to work creatively together every day.

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This episode is sponsored by Paper and Spark. Paper & Spark is the go-to financial resource center for makers & artists. Download their popular bookkeeping templates that import in your sales from Etsy, Amazon, Shopify, and other e-commerce platforms. All designed for makers by a CPA and handmade seller. Use code CIAPOD10 to save 10% off your purchase.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about building a career as a textile artist and creativity coach with my guest Clara Nartey.

 

Clara's textile artwork has been widely exhibited in solo and group shows in museums across the United States. Her work is held in both private and corporate collections.

 

Clara is a self-taught artist who learned by stitching together a curriculum of workshops, art lessons, and several hours of studio practice. She’s an artist, an educator, and the creator of The Clara Nartey Blog – a Top 20 fiber art blog. She holds a bachelor’s in Computer Science/ Statistics and a master’s in Business Administration.

 

Clara is known for her heart-centered teaching and her ability to unlock people’s undiscovered creative potential which leaves her clients with confidence. Clara believes in equipping creative people with skills that go beyond techniques. She’s the creator of training programs like Clarity to Create, which teaches you to get into the right mindset for creative excellence, and Innovate to Create, which teaches you to build systems so that you can enjoy creative and financial freedom.

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This episode is sponsored by Search Press. Find your new skill in 2020 and use code BESTSKILL for a 30% discount on Search Press books on our website, www.searchpressusa.com.

See Search Press books in your local fiber arts and craft store or view our whole catalog at Search Press North America. Search Press are sold through Sommer Street and are available at industry events.

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

 

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about building an ecommerce apparel business with my guests David and Holly Lesue.

Holly is a quilter. She runs Maker Valley—a brand for creative makers (quilters and sewists)—where she designs graphic quilting/sewing tees, writes quilt patterns, curates custom quilt kits and fabric bundles, and designs enamel pins and stickers.

David is a graphic designer. He runs Stately Type—a collaborative t-shirt brand—where he designs graphic tees with the help of his social media followers.

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Today's episode is brought to you by Troll Brothers Quilt Designs. Troll Brothers Quilt Designs is a Canadian online quilt shop located on picturesque Vancouver Island, BC, focusing on today's modern fabrics and trending designers in the quilting industry.  Stacie Wilson, the owner of Troll Brothers, provides you the best online shopping experience and personalized customer service to bring you the fabrics, patterns, and notions you are looking for!

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking with two more of the winners of the Golden Scissors Awards. These new awards recognize excellence in the crafts industry and are given out annually at h+h americas. Nominations were open to everyone and the winners were determined by an independent panel of judges made up of craft industry professionals. 

In this second episode, we'll hear the stories of our Innovation Award, Masey Kaplan and Jen Simonic of The Loose Ends Project. These two co-founders have come up with an organization that eases grief, creates community, and inspires generosity. The Loose Ends Project matches volunteer handwork finishers with projects people have left unfinished due to death or disability and now has more than 20,000 volunteers globally who have completed 2,000 projects. 

 

We'll also hear the story of our Social Impact Award winner, Allyson Allen. Allyson is the organizer of the Piece-ful Protest Quilt Exhibit which features 36 quilted textiles of protest art. Recognized by the State of California as an award-winning Master African American textile artist and culture bearer, she organized this exhibit to be shown in Laguna Beach California where it had a significant impact in furthering the understanding of open-minded diversity and inclusivity. 

We hope you are inspired by both Masey and Jen's and Allyson's stories! Nominations for the 2025 Golden Scissors Awards will open early in the year and we encourage you to nominate yourself or someone else, and to attend the awards ceremony at h+h americas in Chicago May 7-9, 2025.

 

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about embroidery and illustration with my guest Sara Barnes.

 

Sara is an embroidery illustrator and writer living in Seattle, Washington. She runs Bear&Bean, an embroidery studio stitching pet portraits and other beloved creatures. Her work has been recognized in American Illustration, Embroidery Magazine, and Uppercase. Sara chronicles the creativity of others through her blog Brown Paper Bag and weekly newsletter, Orts.  Her newest book is Threads of Treasure: How to make, mend, and find meaning through thread. When she’s not stitching or writing, she enjoys planning things that bring people together, including Camp Craftaway, a day camp for crafty adults with hands-on workshops.

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Today's episode is sponsored by the Show Up Society. If you are ready to overcome perfectionism and overthinking so you can grow your creative business, join the show up society today. This supportive community helps you build confidence in your craft, in yourself, and in promoting your work. You’ll get a perfect mix of practical tips and mindset hacks to grow your business without feeling salesy and without burnout. You’ll have fun and feel supported while taking your creative business to new heights. Go to showupsociety.com/join today.  

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we're talking about creating a craft magazine with my guest Meghan Fernandes, a co-founder of the independent knitting magazine Pom Pom.

Meghan Fernandes is a knitting designer and instructor, as well as creative director at Pom Pom. After 10 years in London, she is now based in Austin, Texas, where she lives with her husband and young daughters. She revels in the challenge of making and enjoying knitwear for a hot climate.

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Today's episode is sponsored by Craftsy.

Whether you’re new to making, or looking to advance skills in a favorite hobby, Craftsy is the place to learn.  

With over 1,500 classes, there’s something for everyone, from knitting and sewing, to baking and cooking, gardening, embroidery, quilting and more!  

Visit CraftsyOffers.com today and get a full year of Craftsy Premium Membership for just $3! That’s 97% off the regular price! Start turning ideas into projects you can be proud of. 

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

 

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast we're talking about growing a sewing pattern business with my guest Heather Lou.

Heather has been passionately making her own clothes since 2010, and discovered she loved sewing so much she left a career in interior design to start Closet Core Patterns. Over the years, the company has grown and evolved and now offers standalone sewing patterns, online sewing classes, and an inspiring pattern membership and private community called Crew, where new sewing patterns and tutorials are released each month based on a changing annual design concept. This year, they also acquired the French pattern company Deer&Doe, and they plan to release future patterns through this new sister brand. Heather also started Core Fabrics with her business partner Tereska Gesing in 2021, an online fabric store that focuses on sustainable, eco-friendly, and artisanal textiles and supplies for garment sewing. She is proudly based in Montreal, Canada.

To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about quilting and teaching with my guest, Sandra Lee Chandler.

Sandra embarked on her teaching career 38 years ago at Santa Ana Community College. She now teaches at many national shows including Quilt Canada, Stitches West, QuiltCon, Festival of Quilts, and Squam, as well as teaching a weekly virtual quilting class through Saddleback Community College. Sandra’s work has been published in numerous magazines and she has made several television appearances as well that have helped to launch her career to new heights.

Sandra’s core materials for quilting are thread and fabric, however, she often employs recycled denim, yarns, dyed fabrics, and stamps to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.  Sandra is especially known for her repurposed denim quilts and wearable art quilted garments.

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This episode is sponsored by Craftsy. Whether you’re new to making, or looking to advance skills in a favorite hobby, Craftsy is the place to learn. With over 1,500 classes, there’s something for everyone, from knitting and sewing, to baking and cooking, gardening, embroidery, quilting and more!  

Visit CraftsyOffers.com today and get a full year of Craftsy Premium Membership for just $3! That’s 97% off the regular price! Start turning ideas into projects you can be proud of. 

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.

On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about sewing machines with my guest Jason Zielke.

 

Jason Zielke is the Chief Product Officer for SVP Worldwide, where he leads global brand marketing, new product development, and industrial design for iconic sewing machine brands Singer, Viking, and Pfaff. A seasoned executive with expertise in strategic planning and engineering leadership, he has successfully launched innovative products and driven significant market growth throughout his career.

Previously, Jason held leadership roles at Stanley Black & Decker and MTD Products, managing initiatives ranging from corporate turnarounds to pioneering autonomous technologies. An award-winning mentor and inventor, he holds advanced degrees in engineering management and mechanical engineering from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology.  

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To get the full show notes for this episode visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Join today.