I’m over the moon this month to be collaborating with one of my very favorite small businesses, Cloth & Kin.
Cloth & Kin is owned and operated by Jessica Brown, and in this writing, we’ll get to learn a bit more about this talented maker of handmade clothing for littles, and how our collaboration came to be.
Jessica and I had been in communication for awhile regarding patterns, and so when she approached me this Fall about designing a bit for her newest line, the answer was an easy and resounding, “YES!”
Some know I took a class last year by Bonnie Christine in surface pattern design, and while I’ve been able to use these skills in small ways, this collaboration was one of the first opportunities to see my artwork out in the world, on real products!
I couldn’t be more pleased with where they’re getting their start; I’ve always loved Cloth & Kin for its mission, and honestly, the incredible quality and design of clothing. Jessica curates the most darling collections, and my boys are no strangers to her clothes.
So, let’s learn more about this sweet maker from Iowa! Read the mini-interview below.
Jessica, How did you get your start in textiles? Have you always loved sewing?
Ever since I was little I have loved transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. Growing up with quilter and textile artist mum, the sewing room became a happy playground to foster creativity, sew, and learn about various textiles. Being exposed to the creative world at such an early age impacted me tremendously, it all came so naturally.
Sewing is very therapeutic to me, there's something about escaping to create + make that just feels right. I find such joy in the process and having ideas come to life.
So fun! Your creativity comes through in your work. My next question: what are some key considerations as you choose fabrics for your collections?
What a fun question! I find inspiration for my collections through current trends and seasonal color palettes. I love creating mini capsule collections for Cloth & Kin so I begin by matching colors to an idea until everything feels cohesive. When it comes to fabric selection I always choose sustainable, ethically made, and American milled fabrics. To keep my label unique I aim to find prints that defy the basic patterns we see in today's stores. But the best is finding an artist who aligns with the vision and can help you bring ideas to life.
Thank you for sharing! Finally, I’ve watched your business grow through the years, and you’ve developed quite a loyal following of people who love what you create. So my next question is, what’s next for Cloth and Kin?
My heart for this company is to continue in making sustainable clothing for littles while helping those affected by human trafficking. Trafficking has had a place in my heart for many years. In 2013 while living in Cambodia I was given the opportunity to work at a safe house orphanage for child victims. My heart broke for these precious little souls and a passion was lit within me. Cloth & Kin has big dreams and we are currently in the process of establishing a non-profit, more to come on this soon.
I have a feeling there is some really exciting stuff on the horizon for Cloth and Kin. Follow her journey, and her really cute baby clothes!, at her website, clothandkin.com, or on social media at @clothandkin_.
And stay tuned for her Fall Collection Launch (with two patterns by yours truly) on September 16, 2022!