Juniper Blue
Duluth, Minnesota
Tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do:
Kristen: Juniper Blue
Our family lives in the woods of Duluth, MN with our goldendoodle and new kitten. Last year we finished building my studio here on our property, which has been amazing.
Since 2013, I have had an online fabric shop on Etsy (Juniper Blue Textiles), getting to sell lovely fabrics instead of only hoarding them. Along with that, I've been able to sew bags and various items for art shows around the area. My dream has always been to see my designs on fabric, and I finally took the leap into pattern design. Now, all the items I make are sewn out of fabric that I have designed, and it is so much fun!
Let us know more about your business name - how did you come up with it?
Juniper Blue. My youngest's middle name is Juniper, so that part is for her. The day I made the decision to use that, my dad visited and brought a plant in a container that had housed a blue juniper plant, which was labeled Juniper, Blue. There it was! I loved it then and still do.
What is your signature style / item? How did it become so?
I would say my style is Scandinavian-ish. More the folksy side than sleek & modern, although I love that as well. With stocking my fabric shop over the years, it became clear which prints/themes I was drawn to. When I began designing, I saw those ideas coming out on paper as well.
What makes your business unique to the industry?
All the designs that I now use are unique to my shop. I'm able to create in small batches, allowing me to switch things up.
What's been your biggest roadblock when it comes to business and how have you been able to overcome?
Imposter syndrome. Looking around at everyone else's beautiful creations and then doubting that I could pull it off as a maker/artist. I feel creating community with other makers/artists and having open communication has proved I'm not the only one feeling like this. And if I like what they're doing, then it feels like a nod to put myself out there as well.
How has your business had to adapt amidst the Covid-19 Pandemic? What are you doing to navigate the situation?
Working from a studio in the woods has allowed me to keep many things running as usual. However, I was scheduled for 5 art shows since May, and they have all been cancelled. That is how I sell most of my handcrafted items. I'm still trying to figure out how to market items when the world is in an unusual time. I find myself thinking it is selfish for me to sell items right now, but I've had the most lovely people reach out and explain the world needs beautiful things during this time. I think that's true.
What is your favorite part of what you do?
Designing and sewing. I love when my prints arrive and when I finish an item and put the little tag on it. Every time it makes my heart skip a beat. I'm incredibly grateful that this is my work.
What is your *must do* local activity?
Duluth is filled with must-do activities. Grab sandwiches from Northern Waters Smokehaus or pizza from Vitta Pizza and sit next to the shore of the most amazing great lake on one of our many beaches. It's powerful and mesmerizing. Drive along Skyline Parkway or climb Enger Tower to get the amazing views and reasons we cannot leave this city. Hike through the city on the Superior Hiking Trail and wade in some rivers. I hear there is still lots of amazing night life, but we have 4 littles, so I don't know anymore!
Fave Restaurants:
Scenic Cafe
Duluth Grill
LuLu's Pizza
Lake Avenue Cafe
India Palace
Where to find Juniper Blue:
Website: www.juniperbluetextiles.com