Meet Randi- Sew What by Randi
Today, I'm excited to introduce you to Randi, creator of Sew What by Randi where she makes beautiful rope baskets and the sweetest infant toys available on Autumn and June!
Keep reading to learn more about her and her business.
First tell us a bit about you and your business.
Sewing is a hobby that I have enjoyed sharing with others. I officially started my business, Sew What by Randi, in the fall of 2021, but I began sewing at the beginning of the pandemic in April 2020 and it soon became a passion of mine. I taught myself to sew and the first thing I made, like so many, were face masks. That soon expanded to blankets, sunhats, koozies, key chains and much more. However, what I seem to be known for are my rope baskets.
The rope baskets came about when my mom was looking for something to hold her remote controllers, so I did some research and made a basket. They are so much fun to make and each is unique.
1. What made you start your business?
I was making rope baskets and other items, and friends and family started asking me to make them things. Of course, I sold them at cost, but soon realized I could sell them for more and not only cover my costs, but make a little extra money. I registered my business with my state and became an official small business in October 2021. I’m so happy I did it!
2. Biggest struggle in your business?
The biggest struggle I have had as a small business is finding opportunities to sell my handmade items. I don’t want to give up every weekend at craft fairs, so having the opportunity to sell my products on Autumn and June Boutique is very exciting.
3. Biggest accomplishment so far?
I would say my biggest accomplishment so far was my first wholesale order. Someone ordered one of my knitting baskets to give to a friend. That friend worked at a knit shop out in California and showed the basket to their employer. They reached out and we worked together, and I supplied them with my first wholesale order. I find it thrilling that my baskets and other products have been enjoyed by so many all over the world (I say world as I did have a sunhat purchased by a customer who lives in Israel).
4. How many hours do you work a week and what does your schedule look like?
I work as a marketing and communications professional to earn my living, so sewing takes place after my “9-5” job. I probably spend about 3-4 hours a week sewing, whether it is for a custom order or to build my inventory. This fall will be a little busier, as I will be participating in a few craft fairs. I enjoy sewing, but I don’t let it consume my time. I want to enjoy it when I actually sit down to create something.
5. What is your best-selling item?
The cotton rope baskets I make would probably be my best-selling item, with the taggy, crinkle toys as a close second. I have received great feedback about the taggy, crinkle toys from those who have purchased them or received them. They are a great sensory item for infants and it fills me with joy to know that something I created is loved and enjoyed.