Today we’d like to introduce you to Rebecca Masciola.
Rebecca, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was fortunate to grow up in a creative home, with a mom who always let us make and create no matter how messy the project. I spent a lot of my childhood around both my grandmother and mother who sewed and quilted. This timeless tradition has always been a part of me. After I had my own children, I became increasingly frustrated with the quality of baby goods available and even more so with the massive amounts of gender stereotyping in stores. So, I began making clothes, blankets, and quilts. I sourced organic and high-quality natural fibers and fell in love with the art of creating handmade goods. It took awhile but my family and friends eventually, encouraged me to open an Etsy shop!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Just go for it! It took me far too long to start a business because I wasn’t confident enough that others would like my work. I struggle with streamlining the 1,000,005 ideas I have in a day into doable projects! For me, the hardest part of having a small business is trying to “sell” my creations. I am the happiest making and tend to get bogged down with the technical side of selling. I have been amazed and heartened with the support from other women who own their own creative businesses. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and support when you need it!
What should we know about SewRebus? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I like to think of myself bringing comfort to others through personal, handmade gifts. There are so many hours of finding the right material, designing and finally piecing and sewing things together (not to mention the time ripping apart the little things that didn’t quite work out!) that make these gifts truly special. I also offer hand embroidery with names and dates to make it even more individual, something to be treasured for years. The security and comfort of a blanket or quilt is something every child (and adult!) should have to cuddle for years. For this reason, I donate blankets and quilts to local charities supporting foster kids. With the small bits of fabric left over from these projects, I have started making reusable facial rounds/cloths in hopes of getting closer to zero waste.
Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
Instagram has been a life-saver for me. I did a lot of research on social media to prepare my account and later my Etsy shop. There are so many inspiring artists to help wrap your head around your brand and how to best present it. There are some fabulous women who blog about their process and lift up those of us just starting out. I would also suggest getting involved in local events and pop-up shops to hear what works well for makers in your particular area.
Pricing:
- Facial cloths from $4.20
- Cozy blankets from $35.00
- Quilts $90-150.00
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sewrebus.etsy.com
- Instagram: sew_rebus
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SewRebus-413389179023639/
Image Credit:
David Masciola
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