In Conversation with Niti Kniti
In the midst of 2020, Elena set out on a journey that would not only become a personal passion but also blossom into the successful business venture, known as Niti Kniti. Specialising in handmade crochet creations, Elena's journey began during lockdown with an exciting introduction to the art of crochet by her mum.
Collaborating with Elena, we are thrilled to introduce our New Mum & Baby Gift Basket, featuring her exquisite handmade crochet cot basket. We had the pleasure of speaking to Elena to dive into the world of Niti Kniti and learn more about her journey with the art of crochet.
What inspired you to start Niti Kniti?
My project was born in the strange year of 2020 - right in the middle of the pandemic and lockdown, but actually it was around Christmas time when my mother introduced me to the basics of crochet, and I quickly became fascinated with it. I got drawn to it pretty quick and now I can't imagine my day without it.
What has been your favourite moment, or biggest win so far?
I guess it was a big win when a couple of ladies who also make macrame projects and crochet baskets asked me to share my own tutorials. I was both shocked and happy! And the favourite moments are simply when my customers are complementing my work and coming back, ordering from me again. For me it’s the most important thing - to know that my customers are happy with their orders.
What has been the biggest challenge you've faced so far?
Like many small business owners, I faced a challenging journey with little to no profit. It took time to find suppliers that I am happy with. It also took time to reduce the expenses as well. I have learned from my mistakes and the lessons they taught me.
What’s your main source of inspiration when designing your products?
To my mind it's perfectly acceptable to draw inspiration from other creators. Initially, I was upset when I discovered someone copying my work, but I soon realised that it's not a negative thing at all. It’s important to use your creativity and imagination. In my case, I gather ideas from others and then tweak them to my liking. I love working with pastel colours, so I offer my customers a palette that aligns closely with my personal taste. The same applies to the selection of small decorative elements such as ribbons and charms. I never create something that I wouldn’t like otherwise what’s the point of creating.
I really recommend exploring Pinterest - whenever I come across something that catches my eye, I use my own materials to recreate it, adding my own personal touch to make it even more special. I am not lying when I say that I am truly passionate about selling everything in my collection. I don't have any favourites - every product is equally important to me.
That being said, if I ever find myself disliking a particular item from my handmade store, I only see two solutions: either invest time to improve the tutorials and materials or remove it from the store.
If someone wanted to turn their passion into a business, what would be the one piece of advice you’d give them?
Go ahead - try! Give it a shot! But be responsible and hardworking.
Every gift featured in a B&B gift box has been consciously made with love, right here in the UK. Elena shares with us her top pit stops when visiting her hometown of Tamworth in Staffordshire:
*EAT: Shokudo - “I love their delicious ramen noodles and fried salmon sushi."
*SIP: No. 18 Coffee House - “ I love their style - modern, cosy, great background music and definitely delicious coffee."
*SHOP: The Courtyard at Middleton Hall - "Amazing coffee shops and gift shops. Tamworth was the capital city of the ancient Kingdom of Mercia - which is definitely worth exploring."
*VISIT: Snowdome - “It's a famous skiing and snowboarding centre."
Check out our New Mum & Baby Gift Bundle featuring Elena's beautiful handmade crochet cot basket. Stay in the loop with Elena over on instagram @niti.kniti