Back in May, I moved Cotton & Flax into a new studio space ⏤ a micro-retail space with tons of natural light. It’s been a big adjustment to move from my industrial studio space (where I was manufacturing most of the Cotton & Flax products myself) to this new public-facing space, and all the opportunities that come with. I’ve spent the last few months getting the space set up, and I thought I’d share a bit of the process with you.
PLUS: Scroll to the bottom of this post to learn about our opening party, which is just a couple weeks away!
The new studio marks a big transition for me. In November of 2017, I injured my back, which left me scrambling to keep my handmade business going during the busiest season of the year. Getting injured was a huge wake-up call. I needed to find local production partners who could help me continue to manufacture my products on a small scale, while also keeping quality high (as my customers have come to expect). This means that I’m no longer manufacturing each Cotton & Flax product in-house, but luckily, my new team of production partners has gotten me back on my feet.
This change in the structure of Cotton & Flax has allowed for some interesting opportunities! Now that I’m squarely in a design role in my own company, I can create a studio that functions as a creative workspace, as well as a showroom for my products. When my friend Michelle from MRH Interiors mentioned that the shop next to hers was available, I jumped at the chance to open a mini Cotton & Flax showroom. I’m so excited to open my doors to the community, and make more connections with my customers in-person!
The next few months were filled with planning and building the retail and storage displays for the shop. I decided to stick to a super tight budget for this part, which meant handling most of the build-out myself. I was partnered with The Cabinet Face to create custom cabinet fronts, which make my DIYed IKEA cabinets look modern and beautiful. I picked up some gorgeous wood from a local lumber yard, and created matching countertops and shelves, which compliment the desk I’ve been using in the studio for the last few years already.
This week, I’m putting the finishing touches on the shop: adding products from other designers and makers to compliment Cotton & Flax offerings, putting up window signage, and planning out workshops to host in the new space. It’s been a whirlwind, but I’m excited to share that our soft opening is scheduled for September 22nd, 2018! We’ll be open from 1-8pm, and our opening party (with treats and refreshments!) is from 6-8pm ⏤ stop by to say hello and check out the new space. Can’t wait to see you there!
