As times change, you adapt, and over the past 9 years on ETSY my focus has shifted from one trade to another. Like a lot of makers, I was taught to crochet at a young age by my grandmother and great grandmother. I moved away from home, had lots of time on my hands, and Made by the Best was born. I quickly realized I was a little fish in a big pond and at some point got a little lost along the way. I taught myself to knit and published a few crochet patterns. At the same time, it felt like everyone else was doing the same thing. One thing led to another and my first embroidery machine arrived in late 2016. In the beginning of 2020 I added a 4th machine to the family. Just like the chaos of life whizzing by at warp speed, the fast paced stitching of my machines, and ability to swap out colors and make something totally different is what keeps me inspired. Handcrafted and beautifully made is still what I strive for, it is just on a smaller scale. While I still love the time and energy that I put into my crochet and knitwear, being able to bring a smile to someones face is why I got started in the first place. So now, instead of a few hats a week, I can make a couple hundred badge reels that find new homes on a scrub top or teachers cardigan. The lightheartedness and simplicity makes it fun and isn't that what's important in life? If you look hard enough you will still find the beginnings of Made by the Best available to purchase in my shop, as I couldn't just let go of my first love.

If anyone is interested in mens accessories, check out my husbands shop KindaOkayDesign
Keep an eye out for my new shop opening soon - Honey & Hazel Co. -