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

Hi Rachel, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I had originally crocheted outfits and costumes for myself and when I wore them to conventions people would ask if I had a store. After enough inquiries I decided to launch my business. I didn’t really have a process, I knew I wanted my store to be affordable but I quickly learned that “affordable” and “sustainable” were two different things.

Crochet is unique and one of the few fiber arts that can’t be mass produced by a machine. With that in mind I began to approach my business with more self respect for my talent and skill. I began to raise my prices and also look at focused on making my business and example of what a crochet store “should” look like.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’m really proud of the versatility of my business. I’ve branched out from crocheting plushies to making lingerie. This year I’m excited to be able to work with plus size models and have brand ambassadors to showcase my work on different sized bodies.

It has been a rough time getting my business to where it is today. 2020 was the roughest year and I found myself sacrificing a lot of my time and energy to keep it afloat. One thing I want people to know is at one point I had to stop creating for the sake of my mental health and that it’s okay to ask for help. I try to be transparent with people and tell them when I need help. It has helped me a lot and it’s comforting to see that, even if a product doesn’t sell well, if I tell people they have the option to support me through donations that they will.

I want all business owners to understand that your ego and pride will sink your business faster than a product that “flops.”

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to thank all of my friends who commissioned me and supported me. I know ya’ll knew I didn’t know what I was doing in those early years, but believed in me to figure it out. I would also love to give a shoutout to my fans and followers. You all really show me unconditional love and support and even through the chaos, you all enjoy my special brand of chaos.

Website: ygcsosplay.com

Instagram: instagram.com/ygcosplay

Twitter: twitter.com/ygcosplay

Facebook: facebook.com/ygcosplay

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRfO1UMIBYZcBL5fBInaM9w

Other: buymeacoffee.com/yarngoddess

Image Credits
Rou Gibson Dru Philips

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