It’s World Craft Month and that means it’s time to get your hands dirty! This week, we speak to Najwa of Yarn by Najwa to find out more about her small business and what inspires her beautiful hand dyed yarns!
We’re looking to Najwa of Yarn by Najwa to find out what makes her brand tick! Read on as she answers ten burning questions about her business and its beginnings, and what inspired, and continues to inspire her hand dyed yarns and patterns!
Tell us about your brand, and why you decided to start it!
Yarn by Najwa is a hand-dyed yarn brand based on the island of Langkawi. We offer unique colour pallets and custom items. Three years ago in 2020, I found myself searching for custom hand-dyed yarn. I discovered that it wasn’t affordable or easily accessible, and so I decided to make my own!
Share with us your inspirations for your dye colours and for your work!
Everything I can see and touch in my surroundings has inspired me to create colours for my hand dyed yarn. And of course, my clients have given me lots of inspiration to create more colours!
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How did you first get into crochet and yarn dyeing? Where did you learn how to crochet?
I was a private yacht stewardess in 2019. After my contract ended, I chose to not pursue another job. I’m grateful for my partner, who created a safe space for me to explore my passion and hobby. He basically created a secure bubble for me get to know myself. I started exploring art, as in painting, then I moved towards yarn art. After that, I started exploring macramé before I eventually got into crocheting. I learnt how to do basic crochet stitches from my mother, and YouTube helped with advanced stitches and patterns. Fast forward from then, and I’ve since started designing my own crochet outfits and patterns!
How do you source the materials for your products? Do you think it’s important to use eco-friendly and toxic-free dyes and materials? How does your brand adhere to that?
I sourced my materials both locally and from overseas. I do think it’s important to use eco-friendly and toxic-free dyes, so I am taking the steps! I’m still learning how to dye my yarns organically.
What are your thoughts on arts and crafts as a way to provide therapy from the difficulties of life?
Arts can act like a sort of therapy for the mind, as we allow our minds to flow when we are creating art. It is a form of escapism when we facing difficulties in life. There is no right or wrong when you’re working on art projects, and there’s no judgment as we’re both students and teachers at the same time.
What advice would you give to beginners who are just starting out in their crochet journey?
My advice is: Don’t wait for inspiration to strike you before you start on your crochet or art piece, as inspiration will come and go. When you are no longer inspired as you were in the beginning, you’ll end up not touching your crochet and art so long as inspiration doesn’t strike again. You must be disciplined when it come to your passion. Another piece of advice I would give is to not be so hard on yourself. We were often our own biggest critics and we need to be aware of our own negative thoughts. Be your own best friend. When our best friend failed at doing something, we typically cheer them on and assist them in getting back on their feet. We must do the same for ourselves when we fail. Failure is an opportunity to learn and grow!
What’s the difference between knitting and crocheting? Explain it in a way that newbies would be able to understand!
Crochet uses a single hook to hook the loops together directly on the piece.
Knitting uses a pair of long needles to form the loops, moving a set of loops from one needle to another. The stitches are held on the needle.
How do you see your small business growing in coming years?
I see my business gaining recognition and exposure. People are interested in YBN, and know it as a place where they can purchase unique colourful yarn. Our yarns are different from standard colours that are available in local craft stores. Crafters will also know YBN as a place where they can create their own custom colours!
What’s your favourite way to unwind after a long day?
Of course, I love crocheting and creating my own crochet designs!
What advice would you give to a brand new entrepreneur just starting out their business?
Be excited for your future. Look forward to how you can grow and learn through your business journey. Words you use in your everyday life are very powerful, so be mindful in your speech and everything you do.
Which Poptron merchants do you want to hear from next? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to follow us on our social channels for more fun content, tips, and stories on your favourite local brands!
