Meet Mary Claire Freese | Embroidery Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mary Claire Freese and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mary Claire, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My embroidery business began in the way a lot of businesses do: to solve a problem. More specifically, a blank wall in my apartment. I knew I wanted to fill it with some sort of art, but couldn’t find the right piece in stores. So, I bought a few starter embroidery materials and created my own embroidered hoop. I was hooked immediately.

Fast forward a few years, my walls filled with my own embroidery, I was steadily making pieces for friends and family. Word spread quickly, and requests for paid commissions started coming in. I chose “The Greatful Thread” as my brand’s name, and spun up an Instagram (@the_greatful_thread) to display my art.

Creating a small business wasn’t exactly what I set out to do, but I love it. I love the challenge of translating a customer’s request into something beautiful, and how excited they are to see the final product. From wedding signage to floral sweatshirts to photo recreations, I’m so proud of where I’ve been able to take The Greatful Thread, and I can’t wait to see what’s next for it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My proudest moment as a creative came last December. I took a big risk and applied for Indie Studio’s Holiday Bazaar, an indoor holiday market here in Atlanta. It was my dream to be a vendor in a market like this. To my delight, I got in! It was hard work to prepare for, I spent two months straight building up my inventory, embroidering for 3-4hrs a day and putting my social life on hold. The market turned out to be a huge success – I nearly sold out of all my pieces! I was so proud of achieving my dream and absolutely thrilled to have so many people interested in my embroidery.

Building a creative brand is never easy, but I believe there’s a lot of joy in it. There are certainly challenges with being a small creator, and I’ve definitely felt the weight of self-imposed deadlines and self-doubt at times. But in those moments, I take a step back and remember this is first and foremost about my love for making art. The second I start to dread picking up my needle and thread, I’ll know I need to get my priorities straight.

I think the most fun thing about my brand is that it allows me to try new things. I’ve experimented with beadwork embroidery, even making my sister her “something blue” for her wedding. I’ve also started sewing, and I’m loving the challenge that comes with learning a new skill. It’s definitely taken me out of my comfort zone – it can be hard to admit you’re a “beginner” at something new. But taking risks and trying new things is what keeps art fresh and fun for me.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I recently moved to Old Fourth Ward and I’m loving all of the different ways to spend a Saturday in the city. I’ve been doing a lot of running and walking on the Freedom Park Trail, it’s a great place to get some exercise in without navigating the crowds on the Beltline.

After my workout, I’d head to my favorite lunch spot right now, Victory Sandwich Bar in Inman Park, I highly recommend the Pork Banh Mi and the soup of the day. Another 10 minute walk down the Beltline will get you to Ladybird for drink on the patio, it’s my favorite afternoon hangout!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’ve been so grateful (no pun intended) for the overwhelming support I’ve received from my friends and family around my brand. In particular, I’d like to dedicate my Shoutout to my significant other, Matt. Throughout my journey with The Greatful Thread, he has given me such encouragement every step of the way. He is my greatest cheerleader and is always ready for a trip to Michaels or a late-night crafting session. I wouldn’t have it any other way!

Instagram: @the_greatful_thread