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

Alright, Lulu thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your creative career sooner or later?

Young Lulu Winkler was an artist. I attended an art-focused high school and college, even showing my work in galleries around Seattle. But a tough economy and imposter syndrome pushed me off course, leading me into the world of restaurants—and away from my artistic dreams.

For years, I worked tirelessly as a restaurant manager in Los Angeles. I endured long shifts, cried in walk-ins, navigated endless lines of hangry customers, and convinced myself that the chaos of “being in the weeds” was an exhilarating rush. But in reality, I was burned out.

Then the pandemic hit. With the support of PUA, I had the rare opportunity to step away and restart my life. I moved back to the PNW, rediscovered my creative energy, and spent my days sketching. I even made and sold my own coloring books online. For the first time in years, I felt like myself again. I realized—I could do this. I could make art for a living.

That’s when I discovered rug tufting. Watching Tim Eads craft tufting frames and transform yarn into bold, graphic pieces captivated me. Inspired, I bought a tufting gun, built my first 5×5 ft frame from scratch, and started experimenting. My early pieces were far from perfect, but I was hooked.

Determined, I launched a website and Instagram and simply started making what I loved. The first market I applied to was Unique Markets—and that experience catapulted me into Portland’s thriving maker community. From there, everything grew. I found my people, sold out at events, and built meaningful connections through this incredible creative network.

Since then, I’ve had the honor of working with Nike, the WNBA + NBA, Benchmark, and Flour Bloom. My work has been carried by Hopscotch and Tender Loving Empire, brands I’ve long admired and supported.

Looking back, stepping away from the restaurant world wasn’t just about leaving a job—it was about reclaiming my identity as an artist. And I’m just getting started.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Looking back, I wish I had known about the abundance of grants, residencies, and small business resources available for artists. Early on, I struggled with imposter syndrome and didn’t think I ‘deserved’ financial support or mentorship, but there are so many organizations that exist to help creatives build sustainable careers.

I also wish I had discovered the power of creative communities sooner. Connecting with other artists through markets, Instagram, and local maker groups has been a game-changer. The support, collaboration, and shared knowledge have been invaluable.

And honestly, I wish I had understood the importance of pricing my work correctly from the start. Learning to value my time, materials, and skill set was a huge shift. Resources on pricing art, running a creative business, and setting boundaries with commissions would have saved me a lot of stress early on.

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

Society thrives when artists thrive. To truly support creatives and a sustainable creative ecosystem, we need systemic changes that value art as more than just a hobby or luxury—because it’s neither.

First, financial accessibility is huge. More grants, affordable studio spaces, and funding programs (especially for emerging artists) would allow creatives to focus on their work instead of struggling to survive. Universal basic income or expanded artist stipends could be transformative.

Second, education and mentorship need to be prioritized. Schools should integrate art as a viable career path, teaching not just technique but also business skills—like pricing, marketing, and legal knowledge—so artists can succeed beyond the classroom.

Third, we need stronger community-based support. Cities and businesses should actively invest in local artists through public art programs, fair-paying opportunities, and retail spaces that showcase independent makers. Consumers also play a role—choosing to buy from local artists instead of mass-produced goods makes a huge difference.

Most importantly, we need a shift in mindset. Art isn’t ‘extra’—it shapes culture, challenges perspectives, and brings meaning to life. Supporting artists isn’t charity; it’s an investment in a more vibrant, thoughtful, and connected world.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Happyhourhandmade.com
• Instagram: @Happyhour_goods
• Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/lulu-winkler-85300a251