Interview: Steph from Thrive with Craft
Steph! It’s great to have you come + join our gaggle of teachers here at Makers Mews- we’re stoked to have you on board!
For the folks at home who haven’t had the pleasure of meeting you yet, give us the lowdown...
I began learning macrame to raise funds to support medical aid donations to Ukraine alongside displaced Ukrainian families living in my hometown of Saltash.
I have tried lots of crafts over the years but macrame quickly became much more than a hobby. I now have my own business selling my pieces and sharing my love of knots.
I am a full time Procurement professional at the University of Plymouth and sustainability procurement champion. I have spent 25 years in a busy corporate life and have found my creativity in Macrame.
Yes, tell us more about the Macrame side of things…
I use traditional macrame techniques with a modern twist, combining a wide range of materials and textures to create items that celebrate nature plant hangers, wall hangings and home/garden décor.
I am passionate about sustainability and use as many rescued or recycled materials in my creations as possible. It’s all about using my imagination to give them a second life. I make sure that no harm is done to people or the planet with the ethical and local sourcing of my materials. My pieces show how discarded items can be made beautiful and given a second chance.
Definitely kindred spirits on that front!
Macrame promotes mindfulness, patience and wellbeing. It is a forgiving craft, if you don’t like your result, you simply undo and have another go! It has helped me to find focus and to slow down in a busy world. I am self-taught and love the endless possibilities of Macrame.
I am inspired by nature, its shapes, colours and textures and my work changes with the seasons. I am an avid garden and plant parent and like to help people to show off their plants through Macrame. There is no place too small for a hanger!
I began making knots to fund raise for Ukraine by selling my products, I shared knowledge with others to make more items as it increased in popularity and then was proud to be asked to run some workshops for Cornwall Council’s summer programme. The profits from these were also donated to Ukraine and Thrive with Craft was born. My logo reflects the Ukraine inspired origins of my business with the sunflower representing spirit and strength.
How did you come up with your brand name?
Thrive! Is exactly what the business allows me to do and I hope I can inspire that in others. Life is about first surviving but then so much more is possible.
What’s your connection with Ivybridge/South Hams/Devon?
Whilst I am a jam first girl, I love the approach to community and sustainability that is obvious in this part of Devon.
Do you have a goal for where you’d love your business to be in the future?
I am on a 5 year plan and hope the business will grow and allow me to give up the day job. I would like to spend time sharing macrame with those struggling with life and help them find some peace through Macrame.
Such delicious aspirations!
Thanks for sharing Steph. We’ll help where we can!
Join Steph at her upcoming hanging planter workshop and follow her journey on Instagram + Facebook
