Today we’d like to introduce you to Shanica Stewart.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
In the midst of Hurricane Beryl, I found myself with a lot of free time. Before then, I had never crocheted a day in my life, but i had prepared by purchasing hooks and yarn. When the hurricane passed through, my community was left without electricity for little over two months.
During this time i would pick up my hook and yarn and began learning. I didn’t even know how to make a simple slit knot. I would laugh at myself as i struggled, but eventually i got it. I watched countless videos, read patterns and spent hours trying to understand the basics. My attention wasn’t always there, and learning wasn’t easy, but i refuse ld to give up.
The very first thing i made was a bra cup. I was so excited and proud of myself. In that moment, i told myself, “ if i can make a cup, i can complete the entire piece.” That determination led me to finish my very first crochet swimwear set.
After that, i started working on a ruffle hat. Unfortunately, after numerous failed attempts, frustration git the best of me and i put my crochet supplies away. I told myself if crochet wasn’t going to be nice to me, i would leave it alone.
Three months passed. Then, it felt as though the hook and yarn were calling me back. I decided to try again, and from that day forward, i never stopped.
Today, i am the proud owner of a crochet business ( ShanStitchery ) where i create a variety of handmade items, including clothing, swimwear, cover-ups, hats, hair-ties and so much more. What started as a challenge during a difficult time became a passion, a skill and ultimately a business.
My journey is proof that persistence pays off. Every stitch tells a story and mine began with a single slip knot.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has not been smooth. Marketing is not doing great and customers are few.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a crochet artist, I design and crochet handmade crochet pieces that combine creativity, style and craftsmanship. I transform yarn into wearable art, specializing in custom clothing and accessories that allow people to express their individuality.
I specialize in hats and head-wears, crochet swimwear and coverups, personalize crochet pieces made to suit each clients style. I am know for creating unique, high quality handmade crochet pieces that are both fashionable and functional.
I am most proud of the fact that i taught myself a skill during one of the most challenging periods of my life and turned it into a thriving business. What began as a way to pass time during a lengthy power outage after the hurricane became a passion, a source of income, and a way to bring joy and confidence to others through my creations. What sets me apart from others is my story behind the business, determination and dedication to the craftsmanship. I taught myself crochet from scratch through persistence and countless hours of practice. Every piece i create reflects my journey.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I am a big risk taker when i have the resources to take the risk however if i do not have such i will just sit aside.
Pricing:
- Hats $5000jmd
- Swimwears as low as $6500jmd
- Hairties for $500jmd per pair
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shanstitchery?igsh=aWJsenB5bTllOHJx&utm_source=qr
- Other: https://tiktok.com/@s.h.a.n.s.t.i.t.c.h.e.ry
