We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Laura Dickson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Laura below.

Hi Laura, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

As a kid I was always creative and grew up in a very artistic family, but my fiber art journey started when I was in college. I started learning to crochet and knit as a hobby, making hats for myself and cute little baby things for my pregnant friends. Being a poor college student I had the grand idea that maybe I could save some money by learning to spin my own yarn (which for those who don’t know, it doesn’t) and that is what really started my fiber art obsession. I took some spinning lessons from a wonderful instructor and her studio was full of looms and all sorts of fiber art tools. I slowly started acquiring my own looms and tools and attending fiber festivals where I would learn about a new way to use wool. It’s been the greatest adventure. The only obstacle that stands in the way when learning a new skill is insecurity, or the “imposter syndrome.” There is always someone out there who knows more and is incredibly talented, and it can be difficult to remember that my skills, no matter the level, are just as valuable. Be curious and enjoy the process from start to finish.

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?

I am a fiber artist and interior designer. I graduated from BYU-Idaho with a BA in Interior Design. I met my husband during school and after we both graduated we moved around for his military career. Because it was difficult with a toddler and military lifestyle, I turned to my creative passions to give me goals and something to focus on. Like many, my hobby quickly became a business and way to connect with others. I love to use my knowledge and education of colors and design to create unique pieces that spark joy in others. My business, Laura Dickson Studio, offers one-of-a-kind artwork ranging from woven and embroidered wall art to cute felted pins and magnets. I have also branched out to include fiber art supplies for my fellow DIY enthusiasts. My main goal is to use to creativity to express myself and inspire others.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

Always value yourself and your work. As a society we have instant and inexpensive access to almost everything. As an artist, what I create takes time, effort, and my own unique perspective which equals value. I have learned throughout my journey, that if I don’t value myself and my artwork then the community can’t learn to value it as well. It also de-values my fellow artists if I don’t give myself the proper credit and price my products accordingly. Of course, handmade art and products cost more than what is available online or at the superstore and that is because it is worth more. Finding an audience who connects with my art and values it as much as I do (sometimes more), is the best feeling in the world. It gives me confidence, pride, and joy in what I do and who I am.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Life is full of pivots and what I have learned is to lean into them. They are unavoidable and as frustrating as they are at the moment, they can bring unexpectedly great outcomes. I originally planned on being an amazing weaver and selling out of all of my handwoven pieces all the time. One day I was experimenting on my sewing machine and had a “what if” thought. I tried it out and I created my first embroidered portrait. It was immediately enjoyed by my community and created a pivot in my business where I began focusing more on embroidery and felting instead of just weaving. My best sellers are never what I plan, but often my experiments where I create just to create. I keep reminding myself to be fluid and have fun.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.laurakdickson.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/lauradicksonstudio
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/lauradicksonstudio