My brand name was inspired by embroidery against anxiety, and how embroidery can heal your heart and mind from negative feelings and thoughts.
Lydia, owner of Willstitchyoheart Embroidery
As you are familiar with, once in a while I like to share inspiring stories from other makers, get to know them, and learn how they are embracing their craft. Instagram may not be the ideal platform, yet it still has the ability to connect people.
That’s where I met Lydia, the embroidery artist behind Willstitchyoheart. Her journey is both heartening and inspiring, and her amazing talent is only outdone by her modesty.
Here’s Lydia’s story.
Hi, Lydia! Could you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Lydia. I’m the founder and artist behind WillStitchYoHeart embroidery, and I live in Canberra, Australia.
I was originally born in Iraq and raised in Lebanon. I arrived in Australia in 2009, at the age of 16 as a refugee and struggled with the English language. It took me a while to assimilate and feel a sense of belonging.
My brand name was inspired by embroidery against anxiety, and how embroidery can heal your heart and mind from negative feelings and thoughts.
I chose the red-tailed black cockatoo as my logo because it’s one of the most beautiful and majestic birds in Australia.
I love birds in general because of their colorful feathers and their ability to fly freely and connect with other birds.
What inspired you to start your business?
I started my small embroidery business in January 2021.
Prior to that, I was working as a researcher at the University of Sydney and like many people lost my job due to the pandemic. I have a bachelor of Medical Science and a Masters Degree in Pharmacology.
Hand embroidery has been a therapeutic hobby that kept me occupied during the pandemic.
What is your goal and why is this important to you?
I’d love to spread my passion for hand embroidery with others and use it to express myself and share my art with the world.
What inspires you and your work?
I’m inspired by Australian plants and birds. Especially the red-tailed black cockatoo, and hence why I chose that as my logo.
What difficulties have you encountered while running your business?
Running a small business is challenging as you have to be the artist, the promoter, the accountant, etc. I sometimes struggle to cope with the pressure which I put on myself, however, I’m lucky to have the support of my husband.
Any advice for aspiring artists?
Connect with other artists and be mindful that not every small business succeeds. Mine certainly hasn’t, yet.
Being an amazing artist doesn’t necessarily mean you’re an amazing business person.
Any funny or memorable customer stories you’d like to share with us?
Two of my dearest friends were actually people I met through my Instagram ads! Funny how our paths have crossed and I’m grateful for their friendship.
Instagram: @willstitchyoheart
Shop: willstitchyoheart.etsy.com
I’d love to hear your story! Drop me a message at hello@makenstitch.com and I’ll get back to you with a few questions to get to know you and your business a bit better.
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