Today we’d like to introduce you to Sumontip Phommahaxay.
Sumontip, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Tuk & Weave began with my love of textiles and handmade goods along with fond memories of growing up in Bangkok, Thailand. Traveling around the world, eating good food, and browsing local markets has always been my passion. Throughout my travels, I’ve collected so many ideas, experiences, and inspirations that I want to share with others. I dreamed of coming to the US and was able to study Fibers/Textile Design at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia. I have worked as a professional designer for mass-produced home products, but my dream of creating and curating handcrafted products has always been with me. After years of wanting to, I finally took the plunge and Tuk & Weave was born!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
My biggest struggle on this journey has been having enough time. All of the handcrafted embellishments and details are very time consuming and with a full-time job and a family it was impossible to produce everything myself. It can be hard to cede control and admit you can’t do it all. Ultimately, I needed help to bring my ideas to life. With the help of family, friends, and the incredible community of craftspeople in Thailand, I started to work closely with uniquely skilled artisans who were a perfect fit for each product. Every item I sell is hand-made and each is special and unique because of it. To me, this is a partnership where I’m able to help them profit with their incredible skills and I am in turn, able to showcase the designs and products I always dreamed of.
My advice is to be patient as you build up your business. Start small-scale based on your abilities and time. Don’t allow obstacles to stop you from moving forward and achieving your goals, but know that its okay to admit you need help. Stay committed, persistent and love what you do.
Please tell us about Tuk & Weave.
As the designer and creator of Tuk & Weave, I collaborate closely with skilled craftspeople in Thailand to create unique accessories. Tuk & Weave is all about handcrafted details, natural-dyed fabrics, and trend-right style. Every piece is hand-selected or created exclusively for Tuk & Weave. We started as a small pop-up shop selling indigo natural-dyed scarves, shawls, and hand-made earrings at my local Buddhist Temple. The initial response was so encouraging it led us to expand our line and market to special events across the DFW area. Our best-selling items are our beautiful linen earrings that come in two unique designs. We also have a unique selection of handbags, scarves, and other accessories and we’re always creating and finding new items throughout the year!
What sets Tuk & Weave apart is our appreciation of handcrafted Thai-inspired products and my unique design aesthetic that brings it all together. I love that I can create unique items for others to enjoy, one-of-a-kind pieces that you can be proud to share and show-off.
Were there people and/or experiences you had in your childhood that you feel laid the foundation for your success?
Meeting like-minded entrepreneurs can make all the difference! At pop-up shops and local markets, I get to meet other local vendors of all different backgrounds and experiences. The community of people at these shows is wonderful, we exchange ideas and tips to help support one another. It’s a very welcoming environment and you can learn so much.
Pricing:
- Handcraft earrings start from $12- $28
- Handwoven bags from $25 – $85
- Unique Top $22 – $32
- Coin pouch $20-25
- Scarf $25
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tukandweave.com
- Phone: 803-984-9854
- Email: tukandweave@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tukandweave
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Tuk-and-Weave
Suggest a story: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
