In my new feature called Creative Crafters, I am interviewing people who have turned their craft into a business. So without further ado, here is the first crafter- It’s A String Thing.
Tell me more about your craft?
I do Macrame crafting. I create different items out of cotton cord.
Anything from a plant hanger, owl, key ring, light, shelving and many more.
Image Credit: It’s A String Thing
What is it? When did you find out you were good at it?
I lost my mum 12 months ago and was in a downward spiral. I knew I had to pull myself out of it. I started out messing around with garden string last July while my husband was engrossed watching the World Cup.
After finding I had a knack and thoroughly enjoyed making plant hangers I asked my husband to buy me some cotton cord.
I just loved from starting out with strands of cord that after knotting it in different ways you ended up with something to be proud of. It wasn’t long before my family members and extended family started asking me to make them plant hangers, my Son suggested I should try out a craft fair.
I was surprised at how much interest there was in my macrame and I did quite well at the craft fairs.
Image Credit: It’s A String Thing
Why did you decide to turn into a business?
It was while I was at a craft fair that I met a lady opening up her own shop to let crafters like myself stock and sell my macrame from her shop.
The shop is Just Like Grandma’s Shop, Fore Bondgate, Bishop Auckland.
Our shop is filled with 11 crafters who make different things.
I opened a page on Facebook to advertise my macrame, you can find me at ‘Its A String Thing.’There’s a picture of a macrame plant hanger as my profile picture.
Do you recommend people starting up their own crafting creations and turning it into a business?
I have met so many talented crafters since starting out. I would recommend other crafters to start attending craft fairs. It gives you a taste of what the market is like. Only then can you judge if it would be viable to go into business.
Image Credit: It’s A String Thing
Have you noticed a rise in crafters and people buying creations?
What is the crafting industry like?
I was lucky that macrame has made a revival and it’s very much the in thing. I have had to adapt what I make to keep people interested.
It’s been a life changer for me. I have something to look forward too and I know my Mum would be so proud of me right now.
Do you have a craft that is now a business? Please get in touch with me.
Gemma's Journey 
I tried this for the first time this week with some wool, and little guidance and still managed a good first attempt, nothing to your level they are fab!
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Thank you for your lovely comment. Wishing you good luck for your future makes x
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