This week on the blog we hear from Irish designer, Mia (Founder of Found Thread). Mia takes her inspiration from the witticisms of nature, with a playful engagement of pattern and illustration bordering on the surreal.
What is your background/experience in business?
My background is creative more than business related, having studied both History of Art and Textile Design. I have been learning as I go along, with help from friends, family, lectures and online business support. Instinct has played a large part in starting Found Thread and launching my first collection ‘Arcadia Falling.’ I have realised how much time goes into each element of starting a brand by yourself – from design and marketing to business plans and website.
Why did you start your business?
I have always wanted to have a brand of my own. While working as a freelance designer I began to make my own printed fabric scarves, which became popular among my friends. Last March 2020, the pace of the world slowed and this gave me the time to really focus on designing my first collection for Found Thread. I wanted to make items that people like my friends could afford, while keeping a high quality. My aim was to have quirky prints on natural fabrics, to be sustainable while bringing something fresh and new.
How has COVID affected your business?
It was during Covid that I started my business, so I haven’t yet had the chance to grow in normal circumstances. I hope that when the world begins to open, boutiques and retailers will again be able to stock more upcoming designers like Found Thread.
What is your favourite part of running a business?
Definitely the chance to have the creative say in the designs. It has definitely been a learning curve for me to trust my instincts and be more decisive. What I also like is that if I make a mistake, I only have me to worry about.
What channels do you use for sales?
Social media has been a huge help so far, and instagram in particular. I use it as a portfolio for my designs, while also including studio shots and promoting eco friendly design. Blog posts, Direct contact, promotional sales, instagram adverts, and networking are all ways I market Found Thread products.
How did you determine your business model?
I knew I wanted to start selling online once I had a small collection of pieces made that people were excited about, so naturally this adopted the Business to Consumer approach.
How do you market your products?
Social media has been a huge help so far, and instagram in particular. I use it as a portfolio for my designs, while also including studio shots and promoting eco friendly design. Blog posts, Direct contact, promotional sales, instagram adverts, and networking are all ways I market Found Thread products.
What are the top resources you’ve found helpful while running your business?
I have attended lots of online workshops and talks over the past year (Eventbrite has many to chose from). This has helped me to expand my business knowledge. I keep an eye out for funding and other opportunities on The Arts Council. Platforms like The Dots have helped me to meet other designers who are open to collaborate.
Is running a business different to what you thought?
Currently, Found Thread is only me but I look forward to be able to work with others in the future. I think it’s nice to bounce ideas and work with others. Starting a brand in Covid meant that it would always be different, but I am really glad that I had this time to focus on Found Thread and get it off the ground.
What does your day to day look like?
I like to start the day with design work or writing when my mind is fresh. I am a morning lark, so I sometimes start working on something I enjoy as early as 8am. Running or cold water swimming has helped me through lockdown and gives me a lot of energy. I try to do some exercise in the day to keep myself energetic and get rid of any tensions. I usually work on what I feel like at the time, but I am now trying to organise myself more with a weekly calendar. Along with Found thread I have other ideas, designs and writing bubbling away in the background !
Who inspires you in business?
There are many designers who I look up to for different reasons:
Stella McCartney has been an incredible figure in the sustainable fashion world.
Iris van Herpen is inspirational for her ethereal designs and luxury haute couture. I previously worked in her studio in Amsterdam for an internship.
My godmother and textile designer Neisha Crosland opened up the world of textile design to me from a young age.
Do you have any advice you have for someone looking to set-up their own business?
Never be afraid to ask for help. Especially if you are starting a business while studying – use all the help you can get from tutors. You will never feel ready, and if you do then it’s too late – so it’s worth taking the plunge. Whatever happens you will learn so much.
