Tenant Profile: Sincerely Louise

Update - Louise has now moved around the corner to a lovely, large studio in the newly refurbished Chaucer Yard.

Third in our Tenant of the Month series, we asked award winning Sincerely Louise about her experience in creating her knitting business - with inspiration from suprising sources!

How would you describe what you do?

I design knitting patterns and kits, and books inspired by taxidermy. 

Why did you create your business 'Sincerely Louise'?

I learnt to knit while I was studying a BA in Commercial Photography. I began creating knitted pieces for my editorial photography shoots. When I left university my work went viral, and lots of knitting magazines got in touch asking to feature me and asking for knitting patterns. Following that I started selling finished pieces, such as my faux taxidermy animal heads. Within six months, I was offered a book deal. All that led to where Sincerely Louise is today.

Where does your  'Sincerely Louise' name come from?

Sincerely Louise is based on my name. Also making and giving a handmade gift to someone is a really sincere and thoughtful thing to do. I thought bringing the two together represented my brand well.

What do you love about running a small business?

Running a small business gives you the freedom to do what you want when you want, and it’s just a big part of who I am now.

What do you like least?

It’s all-consuming sometimes, and difficult to switch off. It’s difficult to have a time when you’re not working. 

Any tips for anyone thinking of setting up on their own?

Concentrate on one shopping platform to start with, if you’re selling online, such as Etsy. Images of your work are really important, whether they’re for a website or for Instagram, so try to shoot in natural light. 

What would you say to anyone else running/setting up a small independent business thinking about getting a unit at Harland Works? What works for you being here?

It’s nice being in a place with lots of creative people who all do different things, and it’s great to be part of a creative community in Sheffield.

What's your favourite social media platform and how do you feel it works best for you in building a relationship and community with your customers?

I like Instagram because it’s very visual, and there’s a really supportive community of other makers on there.

How can people find out more about buying your work?

They can go to my website https://www.sincerelylouise.co.uk/, or find me on Instagram or Facebook @sincerelylouise.