I originally connected with Jessica K. of Ruth & Esther Handmade Goods via a pattern writing course in 2020. Jessica began her business in 2013 and as you'll learn below, she did not original begin with quilted items. Read more about her business and creative area below. Also be sure to check out how you can connect with Jessica at the bottom of the post!
Please explain your main creative area.
I design and make quilted zipper pouches, framed mini quilts and occasionally baby and throw size quilts.
Tell us about your business and what your favorite thing about your business is.
I actually started my business doing crocheted items but I moved into quilting several years ago. About three years ago I decided to start making quilted zipper pouches. I love doing pouches because they are small enough that I can try different designs often and they are useful for everyday life and they are not quite as much of an investment as a handmade quilt.
What has been your favorite make or creation so far?
For sure my Sunburst Pouch. I love the look of it and it can be done in so many color combinations.
Pictured to the left is a version of her Sunburst Pouch. She not only has a pattern available with multiple sizes but also has a course available that walks you through the process step by step.
What is one tip you'd recommend to someone just getting started in your creative area?
Just go for it and try. Ask for help if you need it…there are tons of us out there that are willing to help and encourage you.
What are 3 words you'd use to describe your creative style?
- Color
- Symmetry
- Bright
Do you have an upcoming make, launch, or project that you are excited about?
I am doing a collaboration with one a really awesome IG friend and releasing some of my favorite pouches next week in a new fun color way! They will be the Triangle Pouches and will match a Devotional Kit from TopKnotsandJesus.
What is one skill (either craft related or not) that you wish you knew how to do?
I wish I could make clothes. I have tried and it has never worked out for me. I do not have the patience for it.
What would your high school superlative be? (Most likely to...)
I think I would have been most likely to get married and have lots of kids. Which I did.
Pictured to the left is Jessica and her family.
What's the oddest food you've ever tried and did you like it?
I was in a race several years ago and had to eat a roach and a worm (it was in Thailand and it was sold as street food.) It was awful.
If you had to lose one of your five senses, which one would you give up and why?
Hearing. My hearing is already starting to go a little so I guess that’s the one I would be most used to doing without.
Lastly, where can the readers connect with you and see more of your work?
I am on Instagram @ruthandesther and on Facebook occasionally at Ruth & Esther Handmade Goods.
I offer a Mini Course and PDF Pattern to learn to make the Sunburst Pouch and that can be found at here.
IOFTA Creative Convos are bi-monthly short Q&A style blog posts that allow me, Katherine, to share other wonderful creatives and small business owners in not only the quilting space but in the creative fiber arts and textile space.
The goal is to provide a seat at the table for all types of small business creatives and to introduce my community to businesses that they may not have connected with yet.