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Yetta Forever

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Yetta Forever

Denver, Colorado

 
 

Tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do:

Jenny: Yetta Forever

Jenny: Yetta Forever

I've always loved making stuff. Since I can remember I've been fascinated and energized by the creative process. I've explored lots of mediums, and have a BFA (with a concentration in printmaking). But for some reason, I love fiber arts the most. I just do. I'm also very passionate about making work that is eco friendly and considerate of the environmental impact of creating. So I primarily upcycle. Repurposing an article of clothing is immensely gratifying for me. I get to re-imagine the piece, give it new life, figure out a unique challenge. I get to create which always feels good, and I get to do it in a way that's better for the environment.

Let us know more about your business name - how did you come up with it?

Yetta was my great grandmother. She raised 10 children here in Denver. And my last name is Ettinger. So I always thought, if I had a daughter I'd name her Yetta, to honor both names. Alas, kids aren't the thing for me. My baby is my work.
So I named my business Yetta instead.

What is your signature style / item? How did it become so?

My style is to alter something by hand sewing and crocheting into, and or adding crochet to something. To do this I start with an embroidery stitch (blanket stitch) with which to attach the crochet. I guess that's my signature style, hand stitching and crochet. But I also use a lot of funky bright colors, granny squares and mandalas.

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What makes your business unique to the industry?

I had never seen anyone upcycle the way I do prior to doing it. Since I've started, I've seen a few people to similar things, but it's rare. Especially because I don't use a sewing machine at all (I don't even have one).
My earrings are all original patterns as well. I have not seen crochet earrings like mine. I really try to be open to new ideas and the creative process. I need to rotate the type of things I make or I get bored, frustrated. I really like process and ingenuity. I like problem solving, if my work doesn't have those elements I get genuinely depressed.

What's been your biggest roadblock when it comes to business and how have you been able to overcome?

The business aspect is really hard for me. I can crochet all day, come up with endless new ideas to work on, but all the other stuff is very hard for me. I try to focus on little tasks, break things up into projects. Like if I need to stock online, I'll photograph and prep certain things at once, so it doesn't seem so daunting a task. And I ask people I know how they do things. Never be afraid to ask for help!

How has your business had to adapt amidst the Covid-19 Pandemic? What are you doing to navigate the situation?

Lockdown was tough because shops were closed and my work sells so much better in person, if I'm being honest. People connect to the work so much more when they can feel it or try it on. I have focused more on my internet sales, and they picked up some, but again it's just not the same. I just hung on and hoped in store shopping would return.

What is your favorite part of what you do?

EVERYTHING. Seriously. I love it all. I love thrifting, I get excited about what I find and what it will turn into. I love hand stitching and crocheting. I love love love watching the piece transform. I love color and coming up with new funky ways to use color. I love watching thread or yarn turn into a fabric. I can't get enough of it all!

What is your *must do* local activity?

I live in Denver, so of course anything in the mountains, and red rocks for a concert. And if you can get to see some local comedy, music or art...

Where to find Yetta Forever:

Jackalope Arts

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