MEET THE MAKER – HANNAH JOHNSON from HANMADEIT

Hannah supply bespoke stationary and gorgeous crafting kits, as well as being a creative tutor, teaching a variety of crafts to all ages and abilities all over the country. Find out more about Hannah and her company Hanmadeit in our interview with her below… 

How did it all start?

Hanmadeit began as a small crocheting business, selling patterns and finished items through facebook. I began to get people asking if I could teach them to crochet and eventually it grew from just crochet to a variety of different crafts. I am now lucky enough to be invited to shows all over the country sharing my knowledge with others.

The story behind the name…

Originally when I was making products it was a play on words of handmade and Hannah made, and thus created hanmadeit.. although now it is a little outdated as I no longer make finished pieces..

Where are you based?

I am based in Oxfordshire, however do travel the country doing classes

What inspires you?

Creative people around me, especially women who, like myself are juggling Homelife with business and absolutely smashing it.

What is your creation process?

When creating new kits or pieces I begin with a mood-board of colour palettes I want to use, I use Pinterest and instagram a lot for inspiration of what is in at the time and make sure I am on par with the latest trends. I then get to work, usually I just let myself flow as I trust my process and know that I will get there in the end. Sometimes the first draft becomes the final product, which is a dream, however this is not always the case and sometimes it feels impossible. I always get there in the end however!

What makes you, your brand or products unique?

I think the fact I offer such a broad spectrum of classes makes me unique as I am very versatile with what people want to learn. I myself absolutely love learning new skills as well as perfecting ones I already know, and that Is something I take forward when teaching others.

What is your next project?

My next big project is a new punch needle embroidery kit, which I’m hoping will be done in time for Christmas.

What are your plans for the next 12 months?

Doing the same as I am doing now but on a much larger scale. I want to bring out more kits, teach more classes, and inspire more people!

What is your biggest achievement?

My biggest achievement would be having the courage to jump in at the deep end and do what I do full time. Although it is a very daunting it’s the best thing I’ve ever done, and I’m really proud of myself for that!

What is your best-selling product/line?

My classes are what gets the most interest. I hope that as I bring more kits out that they will take over as that’s something I love designing.

What do you love about Country Living Fairs?

I love the diversity, there really is something for everyone at the fairs, and it is a great way of showcasing a small business to a broad range of people. They’re full to the brim of amazing businesses, both large and small.

Your three top tips for crafters and makers…

• Never ever be afraid of going against the grain and doing something different.
• Don’t give up! Persevere until you get it right, because when you do you’ll feel amazing.
• Enjoy yourself! Crafting is the best therapy, and shouldn’t make you stressed, so just relax and let yourself be taken by the project.

Any advice for fledgling businesses…

Find a balance between work and life. Don’t lock yourself away and work too hard because it soon becomes a chore rather than a passion and you’ll resent it. Stay fresh and creative, don’t let admin suck the life out of you. Set aside even a few hours a week to create!