Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Richie.
Hi Jennifer, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My siblings and I all learned how to crochet and sew and other crafty things as kids. I picked up knitting a few years later, and by 2007 I made it my goal to knit for a fashion designer. At the time, I had a career in the IT field, but I began selling knit and crochet apparel and accessories on Etsy. I’m an Atlanta native (born in Decatur), but I moved to Seattle later that year and began hanging out with other knitters and learning about the industry as well as sustainability within the industry (or the relative lack thereof).
My Etsy shop grew, I got out of the IT industry, moved back to Atlanta and completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a concentration in textiles at Georgia State University in 2017. While working on my degree, I sold crochet stuffed animals and some knit accessories at local farmers’ markets and artist markets.
Today I make hand-knitted apparel for sustainable fashion designer Peter Jensen, I work at Tulipcake Embroidery Studio in Hapeville, I mend knitted dolls for local retailer Blabla Kids when the dolls meet with the various hazards that befall such childhood friends. I mentor fashion students at SCAD Atlanta every quarter in sustainability and knitting, I volunteer for Decatur non-profit Re:loom and occasionally make art pieces for local shows. Dreams do come true, but there’s no getting around the years of work!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’m not sure that there is a smooth road into this industry. “Starving artist” is a cliche for a reason.
I’m lucky currently, as there is a resurgence in interest in fiber arts within the fine arts industry. There’s a fraught history there, so it’s absolutely wonderful to see textiles taking up more space in the galleries along with paintings and sculptures.
It’s taken a lot of practice, countless hours of knitting and crocheting, and some luck when it comes to opportunities. And I try not to let too many opportunities get by me. I love the work itself and when you love the work, you never work a day in your life.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am primarily a knitter, but I also really enjoy making and mending things. Being able to incorporate sustainable practices into my work is something that I am quite excited about. I dedicate time to limiting the damage my work and lifestyle inflict upon our shared planet. While that may set me apart a bit now, I’m hoping that the majority of fine artists and crafters will adopt such practices within my lifetime.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
My mom is the original mentor, she taught me how to sew and crochet and instilled an ethic for grit and hard work.
Jess Jones, the woman in charge of the textiles department at Georgia State University, showed me not only new techniques but how to turn them all into art. The classes also gave me the language to talk about what I do much more coherently.
Blabla Kids, who trust me enough to refer their customers to me when a doll needs “surgery”.
PaintLove in Decatur, who hosts a wonderful Fiber Artist residency to help teach kids how to do several fun things with textiles.
Re:loom Decatur, who have been so generous with donated fabric remnants that they were not able to use and who do wonderful work for the homeless community.
My boss, Katie Culp, who started Tulipcake Embroidery several years ago and who now gives me a wonderful job making things for local businesses as well as the local tv and film industry as well as a pair of canine coworkers.
My partner, Bobby, who has been with me through it all. Through cross-country moves, job changes, and the general turmoil of life but who has been my hype man and supporter every step of the way.
Peter Jensen, who designs the most gorgeous clothing and accessories and has given me incredible opportunities at SCAD and with his clothing line, Yours Truly by Peter Jensen. Peter is an amazing person and fantastically supportive, full of positive energy.
Pricing:
- Art pieces start at $25o
- Knit pieces for sale at https://yourstrulybypeterjensen.com/
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejennyrichie/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thejennyrichie
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-richie/
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/AppalachianVelvet
Image Credits
Headshot, SCAD photo, and weaving photo taken by Robert Perry
