From Seed to Second Skin - Talú
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in clothing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Malú Colorín, CEO and Co-Founder of Talú, located in Blessington, Wicklow, Ireland.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Talú is a natural dye house and educational hub. We help slow fashion lovers keep their clothes in play for longer and reconnect to the Land. Our three main offerings include:
✧ A natural dye service for brands and individuals
✧ Courses and workshops to learn natural dyeing
✧ Versatile, timeless garments made from natural fibers and dyes
Tell us about yourself
I started natural dyeing in 2018 after stumbling upon a book by Claire Wellesley-Smith, called 'The Slow Stitch.' Although the book is mostly about how hand-stitching can be a meditative practice, it has a few simple recipes for natural dyeing. I immediately became hooked and started researching and learning as much as I could about this alchemic practice. In 2021 I decided to give up on my past life as a graphic designer and turn my passion for natural dyeing into a full-time business. Curiosity is one of my main motivators: I'm always asking questions and looking at how to solve problems. Every day I'm inspired to help transform the textile industry, from the take-make-waste model, into a soil-centered, truly circular system.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think starting to get recognition as a thought leader in slow fashion and natural dyes in Ireland has really been one of the biggest things I've achieved so far. Mostly I try to keep looking ahead and see what I can accomplish next.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
For me, the hardest thing about being a business owner is the amount of admin and planning that goes on behind the scenes. The kind of stuff that no one sees but takes up a lot of time. There have been many times in which I'd rather be dyeing fabric instead of doing excel spreadsheets or sending emails, but it's all part of building solid foundations for the business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- No one has any idea what they're doing either; most people are just winging it! So don't let fear or impostor syndrome stop you from pursuing your dreams.
- Perfectionism is procrastination in disguise.
- Talk about what you do — you never know who's going to open the next door for you!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://talu.earth/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talu.earth
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talu.earth/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TALUearth
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talu-earth/
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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