I grew up watching my mother creating for craft fairs and learning the tricks of the trade. She would allow me to contribute my humble creations and rejoice with me in a sale or two. My business-minded mother taught me a little about sewing but much more about customer service. I aspire to make my mother proud as a crafter and in customer service. As my first child was born and I entered the world of a stay at home mom, Etsy provided a welcomed creative outlet and the opportunity to use what I learned from my mother.

When starting Binski's Studio, it was with zero expectations but a bit of hope that someone might find what I sold appealing enough to purchase. I've been very encouraged in the years since. Of the few items that I started with, my shop evolved primarily into sewn items inspired by the needs of a stay at home mom such as a diaper bag or lunch bag.

Transitions happen with any business and in 2013, She Knows Canada contacted me regarding my custom lunch bags. This eventually led to a very, very, insanely busy summer making lunch bags and lots of quality time with my husband. Being a teacher home on summer break, he used his free time to graciously pin, press and package lunch bags for me. It is a fun memory for both of us.

Because I enjoy time with my family doing things other than sewing, I decided my time may be better spent creating a pattern so others could sew lunch bags themselves. Writing patterns is a long process but delightfully rewarding when I hear from those who enjoy them.

Where is my shop headed? Possibly more fine art. As my children are now all school aged, I have returned the classroom as an art teacher. This is such a fulfilling opportunity to pass on a love for the arts and craft trades. That being said, I am doing more visual art, especially printmaking.

In the spirit of passing on what my mother taught me, my daughter is joining the Etsy community! Check out her shop - https://www.etsy.com/shop/jakeandmary . I am grateful for the opportunity to teach her that each sale is all in the hands of God and that His gift to us is not only a sale of an item but also the gift of creativity.