How would you describe your specialty handcraft?

Since tie dye is so individualized, I would have to describe my style as always evolving. I love trying new techniques and colors, and just playing around with it. Even if you make a mistake, it’ll still turn out cool. My painting style also changes quite frequently, but my favorite styles are psychedelic and minimalism.

What or who inspired you to become involved in it?

Ever since I can remember, I’ve been fascinated by the hippie movement and the counterculture of the 1960s. I think this really started my love with all things tie dye, VW vans, and nature. It inspires my tie dye, painting, and writing.

How long have you been doing this type of work?

I worked at a Bible camp for four summers and slowly started teaching myself how to tie dye. I served as the Arts & Crafts director one summer and it really took off from there. I just had so many ideas that I wanted to try and at the end of the year, I had a dream to turn my hobby into a business. Handmade hippie has officially been a business since June 2019.

Do you do it for your own pleasure or offer it for sale?

I definitely started tie dyeing just because I loved it. It was always something that came very naturally to me and I would make shirts for friends just for fun. I never really considered selling them until one of my friends told me that she would have paid for it. That helped spark the idea of handmade hippie.

Where can we see your handcraft?

I mostly advertise and post pictures of my items on Facebook and Instagram. Handmade hippie clothing items are being modeled all across North Dakota and other states as far as Texas. Being involved in my hometown community (and making them for four summers) has helped this grow more than I could have imagined.

Is your handcraft available for sale and if so, where?

My tie dye items are mainly sold off my social media accounts, and my family and friends are great about getting the word out. I’m also a consignee at Market on Main in Rugby that sells a lot of handmade items, which makes my hippie heart happy.

Have you taught others your handcraft and if so, would you be willing to teach it to others?

I have done a few informal teachings throughout the summers, but I would love to teach others if they’d be willing. It’s a fun activity for all ages and abilities.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am a firm believer that I was born in the wrong generation – I’m a hippie girl at heart! I’m a lover of all things tie dye, vans, animals, and nature. Like I said, I worked at a summer camp (and was known for wearing tie dye every day). Camp helped turn my passion into a hobby, but it also helped me realize my true purpose in life – helping people with disabilities. I hope to eventually use this business platform as a way to advocate for individuals through my art and clothing items, and to inspire their own creativity.