Today we’d like to introduce you to Erin Mankowski.
Hi Erin, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been sewing since I was in my early 20’s. I was mostly making quilts but started making bags about 10 years ago. As I was buying materials, like cork fabric from Portugal, I decided I would start selling it myself in my Etsy shop. I was still working at the time so I just did that on the side. During Covid I lost my job suddenly. I was feeling a little lost as I had been with my company for over 15 years and didn’t know what to do with myself. I got my real estate license and found a job working from home. At the same time, I continued to grow my Etsy shop, I added cotton fabric and bag making supplies. I also taught bag classes at a couple different shops in the area. About 4 years ago, we decided to do the Plano Quilt Show and it was a huge success. Our booth was extremely busy and the bag making supplies were very popular. After that we started discussing opening a shop of our own. I knew from the beginning I wanted to sell sewing machines in our shop so we started with Handi Quilter, then added Janome and this year we added the Bernina brand. Our shop is going strong, we have several classes, lots of fabric and notions, we do longarm quilting and we have a full service repair center. We have a great location and feel very welcome in the local community. Our beginning sewing class is extremely popular and sells out every month. I am so excited to see new people wanting to learn to sew. We try to do lots of fun and unique things like make your own shoes class, crochet, t-shirt quilting, game night and more.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s been a little bumpy as I would expect any new business. There are days when no one comes through the door and I panic for a moment and ask myself, “what am I doing wrong”. Other days are busy all day long and I get to interact with so many neat and talented people. I just keep pressing on, trying new things and spreading the word everywhere I go. I want everyone to love sewing and the community of sewing as much as I do.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I make all kinds of bags from designer handbags to backpacks and wallets. I often use cork fabric that is imported directly from Portugal. I am known for being able to use different materials and make professional looking bags. I won first place on 2 bags in 2024 at the Texas State Fair. I also did a YouTube episode with ByAnnie last year. ByAnnie is very well known in the quilting industry for her bag patterns. I was honored to be invited and be part of her organization for a moment in time.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love that there are so many things to do around the city. In the last month, I have been to a concert, a Dallas Stars Game, a book fair and more. I would have to say I dislike the traffic, but that’s anywhere you go these days.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sewcialcreatives.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/sewcialcreatives
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/sewcialcreatives
- Other: https://frisco.com/sewcialcreatives
