We had the good fortune of connecting with Katya Jones and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Katya, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I’ve always been very creative, as well as, handy. I began making and wearing my own clothes when I was in the 6th grade. Today, I understand those outfits looked quite unique or maybe even a bit strange 😅. Back then, whenever somebody asked me about what I was wearing, I was extremely proud to say that I was the creator. So by my adulthood I learned how to sew, knit, crochet, embroider, draw, paint, you name it. After moving to the US, I started thinking about getting a job but my friend told me, “you have the gift of golden hands, so you have to start your own business!” It was in the Fall of 2017 when the story of Brush & Needle began as a thought in my head. The following Summer, the idea became a reality.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I love art! I love teaching it! I love to hear all those “Wows” from kids when they realize what they can do with their own hands. It’s incredibly rewarding to see a child achieve great things, work through challenges, or show growth, whatever their level may be. Of course, my business is not all about rainbows and unicorns. A couple of months ago, I heard this saying: “I didn’t want to work from 9 to 5, so I decided to become an entrepreneur. Now, I’m working 24/7” That is so true. There are a lot of benefits to being your own boss, but sometimes there is an overwhelming amount of work that goes on behind the scenes. My landlord sold the building at the end of last year and we had to move out in a hurry. I’m trying to find a new home for my studio but It’s a bit more challenging then I expected. Currently, I’m doing private sessions and after school classes. However, I’m not giving up on my own space because the creative fun must go on!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Atlanta has lots of great natural parks and I am big fan of nature, so I would take my friend for a walk or maybe a hike. I think there is so much to do in Piedmont Park and off the Beltline, such as, Ponce City Market, New Realm Brewery, and Rathbun’s. I also like the High Museum and the Georgia Aquarium is a great place for tranquility. However, to tell you the truth, my new backyard is the best place to hang out 😉

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My husband is the biggest cheerleader in my life. Having his support throughout my entrepreneurial journey has been a great asset.

Website: www.brushandneedle.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brushandneedleatl/

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/katya-jones-6b3956229

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brushandneedleatl

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.