BHive Design launches as small business after years of charity donations
My sewing interests have evolved with the stage of my life whether I am sewing work clothes, draperies or tote bags for my teen daughters. Over the years, I have made and donated numerous handbags, totes, belts, pillows, doll bed ensembles, skirts, scarves and baby blankets for charity auctions as a creative outlet and a way to give back to the community. I was frequently asked where someone could buy one of my handbags. I decided to take the plunge and what my daughter's called Barb's bags became BHive Design, a tribute to my childhood crafting with my sisters.
Ironically, when I first opened my etsy shop, my son was getting ready for his first deployment with the U.S. Army to Iraq for one year. My shop proved to have even greater meaning to me as I had this creative outlet as a distraction from my worry. I am happy to report that my son completed 2 deployments, was an army ranger instructor and now is in graduate school getting an MBA and is in the Army Reserves.
I have collected and continue to collect fabrics from a multitude of sources and the common feature is their high quality and rich colors. Many of my tapestries are made in Italy or France and I enjoy using high-end home decorator fabrics, many of which are remnants. I have learned that I am doing what is now known as "upcycling" taking remnants and workroom "waste", and turning them into beautiful one of a kind items. This shop continues to be a work in process.
