One-of-a-kind Pieces & Embroidery Patterns

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in handicrafts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tamara Harper, Owner of Smallwoods Studios, located in Birmingham, AL, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I am a full-time artist. Now that I am 39 years old, I am starting to say that with some confidence. I offer hand-embroidered patterns and original works as well as one-of-a-kind handmade bags made with up-cycled upholstery remnants. I also teach classes and sell kits and patterns and offer free video tutorials. My customers are folks of all ages who live here in the Magic City, all over the country, and even in a few countries around the world.

Tell us about yourself

I have been dabbling with hand sewing, beadwork, and navigating sewing machines ever since I was about eight years old, although I didn't consider it as anything more than a hobby until recently. Through studying classical piano, I learned that I am most comfortable working alone on detail-oriented projects. I simply feel the compulsion to create, be it music, something beautiful, something to serve a practical function, a work to express emotions or a piece as a wink and a nod. Cooking and decorating can even fill that need, and I have been happy to incorporate decorating services for clients in recent years.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I am the first artist from Alabama to be featured with Madewell as a part of their Hometown Heroes Collective. Also, in the fall of 2022, I hand embroidered 220 names of historically significant female leaders onto silk scarves for Secretary Clinton and the Clinton Museum in Little Rock.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Simply existing as an artist in a capitalistic society is difficult! It's tricky to navigate daily business concerns without experiencing artistic burnout. What keeps me going is a strong sense of community, whether it be through collaboration, connecting with fellow artists at a show, or just R&R with family and friends — and business-wise, offering supplies and workshops naturally connects me with local hobbyists and good vibes.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Make connections in your community: support local businesses, ask people to coffee, take the initiative, ask for help, form an LLC, get a FEIN, and open a business checking account!
Do not plan to work for other people 24/7. Guard weekly time off to rest and practice what gives you energy. This ensures sustainability for you and for your business!
If it's not a "hell yes!" it's a "no." Projects take a lot of time and energy, so make sure to prioritize opportunities that you're excited about!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.smallwoods-studios.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesmallwoods/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesmallwoods/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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