Do you have a story behind your company name?
When I first launched my Etsy store I offered two types of products: macramé and mirrored pieces. So my company name is a "play on words" that incorporates the knots of macramé and disco in the mirrored pieces.
Funny! Please tell us how you got started?
The Knotty Disco started as a side hustle while I was still working as a marketing executive for a fashion brand in 2019. I would create pieces after work and on the weekends. In March 2020, when COVID-19 hit, the brand fell apart and the entire company was laid off. Over the next few months I dedicated myself to my Etsy store and made the decision to be a maker full time. It was the best decision I've made. Nothing makes me happier than getting up every day and creating with my hands.
What is your favorite part of your maker process?
Dreaming up new product ideas! I love everything about the creative process when I design new items. It's when I get to use my imagination and all my creative juices!
What inspires you to create?
More like WHO inspires me to create :) Both of my grandmothers as well as my husband inspire me to create every day. My maternal grandmother is also a maker and a plant lover. She worked with ceramics for decades. The love for disco comes from my father's mother. She can still dance to the Bee Gees all night! And my husband who supports me and pushes me to keep dreaming and keep creating.
A good support system is everything! What is a typical day like in the studio for you?
Lots of mirrors and lots of knots! Most of my products are made to order on Etsy so I typically will work on my orders for the day and answer any customer questions that come in. My favorite items to make are the planters. I listen to music and get into a groove. It can be tedious work sometimes but I enjoy it! I'm a bit of a perfectionist so each mirror piece is placed with a lot of care.
That requires a lot of patience I am sure! Do you have a favorite item you have created?
My largest planter that I named Ellie is my favorite for sure! I designed the 10 inch size after getting several requests from customers for larger pots. She is definitely a show stopper!
What do you love most about California? How about Pasadena?!
The sunsets! And our proximity to national parks. My husband and I are big campers and love getting out in nature. I've always admired how Pasadena still feels like a small town while being in a metropolitan city. The little stretch of Downtown is the best!
Yes we love Old Pasadena- so much to do! What will you be bringing to Jackalope?
A little bit of everything from my shop! I will have disco planters, disco hats, macrame plant hangers, terrariums, air plants, tie dye sweaters, stickers and plant trellises.
We can’t wait to see you in person this November 20th & 21st when Jackalope returns to Central Park, Pasadena.
Where to see more of The Knotty Disco
Website | https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheKnottyDisco
Instagram | @theknottydisco
