Vendor Interview and Giveaway- Tako Fibers

Posted by jenny on November 29, 2011

 

Tell our readers about yourself:

My name is Emily Baier, and I have been making crewel embroidery kits as Tako Fibers since 2009.  The word "tako" means "octopus" or "kite" in Japanese - I wish I had 7 arms to create all the ideas in my head plus an extra one to fly a kite!
I became interested in crewel after seeing some vintage pieces at a friends house, which led to snatching them up whenever I would see them at a thrift store.  When I wanted to learn how to do it myself I was disheartened by the selection available at the craft store.  After teaching myself from various books, I realized that other people might be in the same predicament.  I debuted my first kits at the UCU Winter Show 2009, and have been going strong since!

What I'm inspired by:

I am inspired by EVERYTHING around me, but the designs for my kits come out of my sketchbooks.  I have been keeping sketchbooks since I was in high school, and still go back to the old ones for inspiration from time to time.  I like to draw bizarre and crazy things, but my kits have stayed pretty tame.  I am also inspired by all of the amazing people who have brought embroidery back into the spotlight.

What was the best thing you did this summer?

The best thing I did was RELAX. I spent a lot of time walking around Portland, sunbathing in my backyard, and making pickles and jams.

Showcasing anything new?

YES! I have brand new kits that will be at UCU! I can't tell you what they are yet, but I promise you'll like them a lot :) They are all inspired by customer suggestions!

What are you excited for at ucu?

I'm excited for a bigger show, to see old friends, and to introduce more people to doing crafts!

Want to win one of these awesome kits for yourself?  Leave a comment on this post and a winner will be chosen at random later this week.  You may pick out a kit of your choice at the show!

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