Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly Dorris.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
My Grandmother introduced me to the fiber arts at a young age. She was an avid knitter and owned a knit shop in Atlanta. More than anything though, she loved to give away her creations as gifts – and that’s really how kd weave got started. I have tinkered with all kinds of crafts: knitting, crocheting, beading, you name it – I’ve probably tried it! But several years ago, my Husband, David, bought me a loom, and it was love at first sight! Weaving has allowed me to create fabrics and turn them into home goods. I started, just like my Grandmother, by giving them as gifts – and it is still what drives my business today. I love that you can see my items are made by hand and that time and effort went into their making. I hope that everyone who buys or receives a kd weave good feels a special connection with the hard work that went into creating it.
Please tell us about your art.
I weave on a Schacht Rigid Heddle Cricket Loom. In practical terms, it is a small lap loom that has no engine or automated process to make the fabric other than with your hands! The production of each piece takes time, and I like it that way. Right now, I use 100% American cotton to weave with, and it is a much thicker yarn than what most other weavers use. I like the thickness because you can see the actual grid of the weave, and can tell it is not machine manufactured. My designs are very simple, but purposeful in that way so that you can see they are made by hand. Right now, I focus on items for the home: hand towels, placemats, table runners, coasters, pillows (of all sizes!), and am continuing to expand and create all the time. What I hope people take away from my pieces is that they feel the care and uniqueness it took to make each item when they use it in their homes.
Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
This is definitely a real thing! I currently work Full Time as a Store Director at Madewell, am supporting my Husband as he is finishing law school, and I work on kd weave in any/all of my spare time. It is easy to wish I had more time and resources to dedicate to my business. But, what I am realizing is that all of this is a process and a journey. It’s been important for me to not get ahead of myself. Instead, I try to be present and think I am right where I am supposed to be – I am not perfect at this! I am learning that being a maker and an artist is also being a work in progress. None of us are completed versions of ourselves and our products, and that is okay. The investment, both of time and of money that goes into every piece of this process can be overwhelming if you let it be, but I think the journey and the story we are creating along the way is the best part!
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I have just launched my website: www.kdweave.com! You can also follow along and be a part of the story on Instagram: @kd_weave. Because of the tactile nature of my goods and the need for them to be felt and experienced, I am also starting to do pop-ups, markets, and selling in stores. Eventually, I would like to have a studio where people can come see and participate in the process of weaving. The most special part of being a maker to me is to be able to connect with people and see their reactions and hear their stories of how they are using/giving their kd weave items. More to come!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kdweave.com
- Phone: 205-908-4858
- Email: kd.weave.co@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kd_weave/
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/kdweaveco
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
