Website and Blog Update

Earlier this year I switched to a new website provider.  After 8 years of squarespace, I felt as if I needed a platform that offered a bit more automation and room to grow.  Having very outdated website creation experience, there is only so much I can do without having to take a deep dive into coding.

The new and improved website.

So far, I am really pleased with the way that the new website is turning out. I have been able to add retail, a downloadable calendar and new class offerings. The site loads much faster and (I think!) is easier to navigate. It feels a bit more grown-up too, though still very much a work in progress.

As great as the new site is, the platform does not support a traditional blog.  For a creative business, I feel that a blog is still important.  A place to hold all of the tutorials, patterns and content that I have amassed over the years.  To that end, I am keeping the blog on the original squarespace site (www.littlestitchstudionorfolk.com and just creating a link from the new site to the old.  It may take a bit of trial and error to streamline the content, but I think there is a way to make it work.  

The ultimate test in how well a website operates, is of course the user experience. What are some features that your favorite websites offer? Are there some content ideas that you would like me to add? I am working on new patterns, some pre-recorded classes as well as some helpful videos and downloadable guides.

Have you switched website providers?  If so, I'd love to hear about your experience.

XOXO, Hilarie

Creative Gift ideas under $25 for the Crafty Kids on your list

Are you looking for gifts to fill the stockings for the little crafty ones on your list? Look no further. My shop is brimming with creative gifts for your kids this holiday season- all under $25, and I’m adding more items every day! Here's a rundown of some of my favorites...

Wool felt sewing kits, wood peg doll ornaments, jewelry, pompoms and sweet little sewing tools and notions. All kid approved and among the supplies we use each day in class.

In addition to the featured items, I’m happy to put together custom kits. Perhaps a little DIY kit to make bags, scrunchies or doll clothes? Send me a message with your budget and I’ll make it happen.

If you stop by my etsy shop, I’d love to hear your thoughts. It is still very much a work in progress but so far, I’m pleased with it. Do you like etsy? There are things that I really like about it, but others not so much. The plan is to transfer everything to my own website too- but that will come with time. In the meantime, happy shopping!

Little Stitch Studio Now Has A Retail Fabric Shop

Little Stitch Studio Fine Fashion Fabrics

Yes, you read that correctly! Little Stitch Studio is now offering an online fabric shopping opportunity. All of the fabric that I have in stock will also be available to purchase and take home to sew your own clothing and accessories.

When I moved Little Stitch Studio into its current location in 2017, my plan was to have a small retail section. Teaching kids, the retail proved to be tricky. First of all, they want to play with everything! Or they might get confused between supplies meant for sale and those that are for them to use. (Hint- if it’s in a package- it’s not for class use:) Also, staffing was an issue, it wasn’t easy to help a customer select fabric, while teaching a roomful of kids. So, the retail idea was set aside. That is, until now!

It should come as no surprise to anyone that the pandemic has been tough on small businesses. By flexibility and sheer luck, I was able to survive the 5 month shutdown in 2020. Operations since then, with reduced class sizes, and a few week long closures due to Covid exposure, it is clear that I need to diversify.

The adventure in retailing is now online. The physical studio space can stay set up for teaching and I can diversify by offering a collection of beautiful fabrics, notions, trims, books + patterns and gifts. And you, my friends, can shop from anywhere in the world!

The shop site is still very much a work in progress. It will take some time to “perfect”, but I am pleased so far. Better graphics and photography are coming, thanks to my very talented sister, Morganne. You can look forward to lots of new additions and some fun patterns and kits coming just in time for the holidays too!

Want to hear about the fabric? I have longstanding accounts with some major fabric manufacturers like Robert Kaufman, Windham Fabrics, RJR, Brewer and Moda. These companies offer fabric for garment sewing as well as fun quilting cotton. Additionally, I have been able to find some deadstock fabric too. (For those of you who might not know what” deadstock” means, Deadstock Fabrics are essentially fabric leftovers- not scraps, but actual yardage that companies or designers didn’t use).

You will find cotton solids and prints as well as linen, wool and silk in a variety of weights and substrates: Knits, jerseys, canvas, twills and flannels. Fabric that is perfectly suited for sewing garments, accessories, kids clothing and even holiday items. (Holiday fabric is listed too!)

Please take a look at the new shop- I’d love to hear your thoughts and welcome suggestions. If you are local, I’m happy to arrange pickup and in-person personal shopping opportunities.

Best,

Hilarie