Today we’d like to introduce you to Whitney Swinyard.
Hi Whitney, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey into fiber arts began many years ago when I was a young mom navigating the routine of everyday life with small children. It’s easy to lose yourself in the monotony of naps, feedings, laundry, and all the other little tasks that come with caring for little ones. I found it difficult to feel accomplished when so much of my day revolved around these never-ending chores. I needed something—just a small goal, a way to check off a box at the end of the day and feel like I had done something for me.
That’s when I discovered knitting. During those long afternoons, when the kids were napping, I’d steal away for a quiet moment and work on a row—or maybe two, or ten. I began with simpler projects, and soon I was tackling complex cabling, lacework, short row shaping, and even socks. I set small, achievable goals—five rows, a set number of pattern repeats—giving myself something tangible to work towards each day.
Knitting became my quiet refuge, a way to nurture my sense of accomplishment amidst the chaos of motherhood. What started as a small escape grew into a lifelong passion, one that continues to bring me joy and fulfillment today.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Has the road been smooth? Is any road ever truly smooth or straight? Not really. But with each challenge, it’s only made the journey more interesting. That said, nothing has felt insurmountable enough to stop me from pursuing my passion for Handwork. It might sound a bit idealistic, but opening Handwork has been an absolute joy.
In a world where so many face struggles, I get to work with fiber every day, helping customers find the perfect yarns for their projects—projects that bring them personal joy. Honestly, it feels like a dream job.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Handwork is more than just a store—it’s a community, a creative haven where we celebrate the art of fiber crafting in all its forms. We specialize in a thoughtfully curated selection of yarns, fibers, and tools, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and ethical sourcing. Our collection is made up of high-quality, handmade products from independent artisans and small-scale companies around the world, ensuring that every piece we carry is not only beautiful but responsibly sourced.
What sets us apart is our dedication to fostering a welcoming, inclusive environment for makers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just starting your fiber journey, we’re here to support and inspire you. We host bi-monthly free knitting and crochet classes, knit-alongs, weekly maker nights, and various community-focused events that help build connections and strengthen the bond between our customers and the craft. It’s about more than just products—it’s about creating a space where people feel seen, celebrated, and inspired.
We’re especially proud of our commitment to sustainability and our strong relationships with the artisans and makers who provide the materials we offer. Knowing that our products support small, ethical businesses and contribute to a more sustainable world makes our work deeply meaningful.
Above all, we want readers to know that Handwork is a place where creativity thrives, where you’ll always find a warm welcome, and where your personal craft journey is celebrated. Our offerings are not just about providing high-quality materials—they’re about supporting a vibrant community of makers who share a passion for fiber art.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Get involved. It’s as easy or as complex as you make it. You might be surprised, but in today’s tech-driven world, I’ve found that people are increasingly seeking real, meaningful connections. We’re all looking for common ground and yearning for collaboration. All it really takes is saying “yes,” and opportunities will start to appear.
That said, I’m a firm believer in creating the community you want to be a part of. If you feel like opportunities are few, take the initiative and become a leader yourself. Invite others, put yourself out there. It’s definitely intimidating, but chances are, others are also looking for groups to join and collaborate with.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.handworkslc.com
- Instagram: @handworkslc
