Today we’d like to introduce you to Basha Brulee’.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
So, I first started this business as a recreational hobby. When I was younger, my mom taught me how to crochet and I stuck with it for a while but, you know how hobbies can be. We pick up something that we like when we’re young and kind of drift away from it as we get older. However, I ended up finding my way back to crochet in November 2019.
I remember stumbling across some old spools of yarn as I was cleaning out my closet and felt compelled to dive back into the crochet game. Crochet is like riding a bike, once you learn you can’t really forget the technique. I remember how peaceful and relaxing the hobby was so I figured why not pick it back up as an adult. When I started crocheting again, I had no idea it would turn into a serious business venture. I took note of how good the hobby made me feel so I hopped on YouTube to learn certain patterns for making different articles of clothing and would post the clothing that I made on my Instagram story, strictly on my “close friends” list because I was hesitant to put my work out publicly. For me, it was just a creative outlet and fun way to release stagnant energy but my creative outlet soon turned into a passion. Once I realized that there’s a demand for universal, comfy, crochet- clothing, that’s when the creative sparks starting flying. Almost like a little fire was lit within!
I really wanted to provide and be of service to my community by sharing my art and creations with the world but wasn’t quite ready to make that full leap. My friends were blowing me up non-stop about starting my business, they were asking me when I was going to start selling my clothes, they kept trying to pay me to make the stuff but I refused (out of insecurity and imposter -syndrome). Until, one day, as I was sitting in my room crocheting, I had a serious conversation with myself about holding back my artistry from the world. I realized it was time to get out of my own head and put everything I had to offer out for the world to see. So I said “f*ck it, what’s the worst that could happen if I decide to open up my own crochet business, I fail? Okay, and if I do so be it!” and that’s when Threaded Apparel by B came to life.
I spent the next two – three months working endlessly on specific patterns, different articles of clothing, finding out what yarn/stitch and hook worked for me and what didn’t. I spent so much time on creating a logo/name that encompassed my brand. I put a lot of time into the business cards, the logo stickers literally everything because I really wanted my brand, my baby, to make a statement. Once all of the logistics were created, I went for it and launched my brand via Instagram on January 17, 2020. The focus of Threaded Apparel by B is to provide cozy and comfortable loungewear for everyone that can double as everyday wear (other crochet pieces include beanies, hats and scarves as well). My focus is to provide something within my clothing line for everyone to feel their cutest and coziest in!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It’s been a smooth road for the most part! Which I am nothing but blessed to be able to say.
Some slight struggles I’ve encountered along the way are time – management, revamping certain patterns to fit all body types and to avoiding ripping, as well as stopping myself from being my biggest critic! As a mixed media artist and creative, I can be so hard on myself for no reason. Perfectionism and imposter – syndrome do their best to get in the way but constantly reminding myself of why I started this business and knowing that it’s okay to start back at square one, has been a big contributor in keeping me grounded through the ups and downs of being a small business owner!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Threaded Apparel by B – what should we know?
I specialize in creating handmade, universal crochet-loungewear and accessories for everyone! Not only that but, all of my pieces are handmade to everyone’s specific measurements so that the created piece is personalized to you.
I’m known for using a specific velvet – crushed yarn for my work. It’s extremely soft and pleasing to the touch and gives the finished product an overall “plush” look. When choosing this yarn to work with, I tried to keep people like myself in mind, who have sensitive skin and whose skin can become irritated by the constant rubbing of rough/abrasive material.
As a small business owner, I’m most proud of selling out my first vending event that took place at Melanin Market on Feb. 29, 2020! The event exceeded my expectations by a landslide and it made me very excited for future events to come!
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I definitely have to give a shoutout to my tribe, my support system, my parents.
Collectively they all pushed me to take a step out into the world and share my craft. They gave me the extra push I needed to just go for it and stop being so afraid. My mom helped me with a lot of the logistics because she’s a business owner as well. She helped make sure my first vending event went smoothly and is a constant motivator!
Everyone that was listed in this article has been a contributor my success and I wouldn’t be here without them!
Contact Info:
- Phone: 562 419 5045
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: instagram.com/threadedapparel_byB
- Other: instagram.com/bashab__
Image Credit:
Photos by Bryttani Ford
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