Rising Stars: Meet Kathy Caudill

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathy Caudill.

Hi Kathy, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have always gravitated towards creative outlets. Art class was my favorite as I really enjoyed trying out different art mediums and different ways to express myself. This continued into adulthood. But, once I had kids, I found that I really needed to prioritize having a little “me” time at the end of the day.

That’s when I dusted off my old crochet hooks and started working with different fibers and color schemes. I was heavily involved in fiber arts, even creating a couple of my own crochet patterns. One day while browsing project ideas online, I came across a sewing class that was featuring a tote bag with a British designer and decided to give it a try. I had no idea how addicting bag-making was going to be.

I started making bags of all shapes and sizes. That eventually led me into wanting to design my own bag patterns. I figured if I could make a crochet pattern, why couldn’t I also make a sewing pattern??

So, after learning some tips and best practices from designers I’m inspired by, I decided to write my first pattern. That pattern, The Essentials Wallet Clutch, was released in early 2021. Since that time, I’ve released several more patterns and am looking into ways to expand my brand.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Overall, it’s been pretty smooth. One learning curve I’ve had to adjust to is the different ways that people like to learn.

Some are visual, some are audible, some want written instructions with photos, some want videos, some want pattern pieces, some want just the measurements, and some want it all! So that has challenged me to find ways to adapt my teaching and presenting style to appeal to and meet the needs of a wide audience.

I’ve also started offering online sew-alongs for my patterns. So figuring out the whole video side of the business has been a challenge. But it’s also so rewarding when you get it done. And to receive positive feedback on top of it, well, that is the icing on the cake!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I offer sewing patterns that are both domestic machine and beginner sewist friendly, as well as high-quality handmade goods that you can’t find anywhere else.

I’m most proud of having a goal in mind, working towards that goal, and being able to see that come to reality. One thing that sets me apart from others is my dedication to working with clients to come up with the perfect bespoke item for them. That often involves collaboration over many days and emails to get exactly what they want.

I work with clients every step of the way, from the design to the material to the hardware. Their reaction and feedback when I deliver their vision are some of the best feelings.

We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
Yes! Just go with the flow. In the big scheme of things, a small shipping delay isn’t the end of the world. Stuff happens. I’ve learned to not stress out over the little things and build in extra time to my project or order so that I can continue to meet my obligations when promised.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://www.kdillhandmade.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kdillhandmade
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/kdillbagmakers
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK37Nj8qx4pIO2oqYHY6Xfg