We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Amanda Armstrong a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Amanda, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

Taking the Leap: Why I Opened a Brick-and-Mortar Store in Challenging Times

Opening “Sups & Splinters” brick-and-mortar store in today’s economic climate might seem like a risky move to some, but for me, it’s a decision rooted in optimism, connection, and a deep belief in the power of art and tactile experiences to transform spaces and lives.

As a fiber artist and woodworker, my creations have always been about more than just visual appeal—they’re about touch, texture, and the emotions that only a physical experience can evoke. Whether it’s the rich feel of hand-spun yarn, the natural curves of a carved wooden bowl, or the spiritual energy of a skull adorned with crystals, my art invites a deep sensory connection. Over the years, I’ve witnessed how these pieces resonate with people, how they stir something within that can only be truly appreciated in person.

Yet, as the economy became uncertain, the idea of expanding with a physical store seemed daunting. Many would say this is the time to play it safe, but I saw it differently. I recognized this moment as the perfect time to take a leap of faith and create a space where people could fully experience my art—up close, personal, and tangible.

This journey wasn’t one I embarked on alone. I’ve partnered with the incredibly talented master apothecary behind **Gypsy Moon Kisses**, a brand known for its handcrafted skincare products that are as luxurious as they are effective. Like my fiber art and woodworking, these apothecary products benefit immensely from a tactile experience. The silky feel of a nourishing balm, the invigorating texture of a natural scrub—these are sensations that can only be fully appreciated when experienced firsthand.

Together, we’ve created a store that’s not just a place to shop but a space that embodies the essence of mountain living. It’s a cozy, welcoming environment where customers can explore our handcrafted offerings and feel the connection to the natural world that we both cherish.

What ultimately pushed me to take this risk was a deep-seated belief in the future and a desire to bring something positive to our community. I knew that having a physical presence in our small town would have a far greater impact than any online platform could. Here, in the heart of Trinidad, Colorado, I could connect with people on a personal level, inviting them into a space that feels like home—a space where they could touch, see, and feel the art and products we’ve poured our hearts into.

I also understood that many of my clients prefer the intimacy of working with an artist and a creator in person. They want to collaborate on custom pieces, to share their ideas, and to feel the connection that comes from creating something unique together. Having a store allows us to offer that experience, making it easier for clients to make those larger, more personal purchases with confidence.

Since opening our store, I’ve seen how this risk has paid off—not just in terms of business, but in the way it has uplifted our community. Our customers appreciate the convenience of being able to pick up their orders directly from us, whether it’s a custom art piece, a handcrafted skincare product, or their weekly essentials from my ranch. But more importantly, they’re drawn to the sense of optimism that our store represents.

In a time when it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by uncertainty, I believe it’s crucial to focus on the brighter side of things. Opening “Suds & Splinters” is our way of showing that the future is bright and that we can all look forward with hope. It’s a reminder that even in challenging times, we can create something beautiful, something lasting, and something that brings joy to others.

Taking this risk has reinforced my belief that art, craftsmanship, and quality products have the power to connect us, to inspire us, and to bring us together. It’s not just about selling items; it’s about creating a space where people feel welcomed, where they can experience the magic of handmade art and skincare, and where they can find a little bit of hope for the future.

So, yes, opening a brick-and-mortar store during an uncertain time may seem risky, but it’s a risk worth taking. Because when you believe in what you’re doing and have faith in the future, those risks become opportunities to make a real difference—in your life, in your community, and in the world around you.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

For those of you who haven’t met me yet, I’m Amanda Armstrong, a fiber artist, woodworker, and abstract painter living in the rugged beauty of the southern Colorado mountains. My journey into this craft began with a deep connection to the natural world around me, where every element—from the softest fiber to the sturdiest wood—holds a story waiting to be told.

My love for fiber art was sparked by a fascination with the textures and qualities of luxury fibers like camel, yak, and bison. These are not just any fibers; they are sourced with great care, often from small farms that prioritize sustainability and the welfare of their animals. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of working with materials that carry a sense of place and history, and these exquisite fibers provide just that.

I hand-spin much of my yarn using a drop spindle—a method that’s as ancient as it is meditative. Each twist of the spindle is a moment of connection to the earth and the animals that provide these luxurious fibers. This hands-on approach allows me to create unique art yarns that become the foundation for my tactile wall weavings. These pieces evoke a visual experience through texture and depth, inviting viewers to not just see but feel the art.

My work is deeply varied, spanning from the softest woven textiles to the most rugged skull art, and I also create custom abstract paintings. I have a studio on-site where I create these works, offering clients the opportunity to collaborate on pieces that speak to their personal vision. My abstract art is expressive and textured, often inspired by the landscapes and natural beauty that surround me.

In addition to fiber art and painting, I create woodworking pieces that blend rustic charm with modern design. Each piece of wood I work with is carefully selected, often from cast-offs or unique tree limbs that I find on my property. My carved wood products—whether they’re functional bowls or decorative items—carry the organic beauty of the wood, enhanced by my intuitive approach to shaping and finishing.

One of the more unique aspects of my work involves skulls, which I source either through donations or from my own ranch. Each skull is processed by hand—a meticulous and respectful process that ensures the natural beauty of the bone is preserved. These skulls are then adorned with crystals, transforming them into powerful, one-of-a-kind art pieces that resonate with the spiritual and the natural world.

What truly sets my work apart is the tactile experience it offers. In a world that’s increasingly digital and distant, there’s something profoundly grounding about art you can touch. Whether it’s the softness of a hand-spun yarn, the smooth curve of a wooden bowl, the rich texture of an abstract painting, or the raw energy of a crystal-adorned skull, my pieces invite a physical and emotional connection.

I also believe that the story behind each piece adds to its value. My clients aren’t just purchasing an object—they’re investing in a story, in a piece of the mountains, and in the deep care that goes into every step of my process.

Many of my clients come to me looking for something that transcends the ordinary. They’re seeking art that speaks to them on a personal level, whether it’s a custom fiber piece that perfectly captures the colors and textures of their favorite landscape, an abstract painting that resonates with their emotions, or a skull art piece that reflects their spiritual beliefs. My custom work allows clients to collaborate with me in creating something truly unique, something that reflects their own story as much as mine.

I’m most proud of the connections I’ve built with my clients and the community. Opening a brick-and-mortar store in Trinidad, Colorado, during uncertain economic times was a bold move, but it’s one that I’m incredibly proud of. It’s more than just a store—it’s a space where people can come to experience the art firsthand, to feel the textures, and to engage with the stories behind each piece.

At the heart of my work is a belief in the power of optimism and the importance of community. I want my clients, followers, and fans to know that every piece I create is made with intention, care, and a deep respect for the natural world. I’m here to offer more than just art; I’m here to offer an experience, a connection, and a reminder that even in challenging times, there is beauty to be found, created, and shared.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My mission is to create art that bridges the gap between nature and human experience, crafting pieces that invite touch, evoke emotion, and tell stories rooted in the raw beauty of the world around us. Through my fiber art, woodworking, and custom creations, I aim to bring the essence of the mountains into everyday life, fostering a deep connection between my clients and the natural world. My journey is driven by a commitment to sustainability, craftsmanship, and the belief that art has the power to inspire, heal, and transform.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

To build a thriving creative ecosystem, society must prioritize economic support, community engagement, and stronger legal protections for artists. Fair compensation is vital, as artists often struggle with undervaluation of their work. Establishing fair wage standards and offering tax incentives to those who support the arts can significantly enhance the financial stability of creatives. Additionally, stronger copyright laws and legal protections are crucial in safeguarding artists’ intellectual property. Ensuring that artists retain control over their creations and receive due recognition and compensation for their work is essential to protecting the integrity of their art and preventing unauthorized use or exploitation.

Community engagement also plays a pivotal role in supporting artists. By fostering a culture that encourages the public to support local artisans—through purchasing locally made art, attending events, and participating in art-related activities—society can help sustain the creative economy. This engagement not only benefits artists financially but also strengthens the bond between the community and its cultural contributors, creating a more vibrant and inclusive cultural landscape.

Together, these measures—fair economic support, robust legal protections, including stronger copyright laws, and active community engagement—can create an environment where artists and creatives are valued, protected, and empowered to thrive.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.adornedforest.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adornedforest
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adornedforest

Image Credits

Images by Amanda Armstrong