Callie Works-Leary was a recent graduate of Southern Methodist University with an eager entrepreneurial mind. She knew that one day she wanted to start her own business, but she was unsure of what that business would be. While she was trying to figure out which business direction to pursue, she decided that she would learn how to sew in her free time. She happened upon a large online sewing community of young people. These hip sewers wanted to sew with fabrics by designers and other popular names, but they could not easily find them in their area. When Callie became aware of the problem, she tried to search them out for herself, and could not find them either. She decided that she wanted to create a sewing shop where young sewers could come to sew, and have their specific sewing desires met. She also wanted the shop to have stress free classes for beginners who wanted to learn how to sew.
She began to start her Northern-Texas sewing business, CityCraft, just one month after learning how to sew. Her shop consists of sewing machines, cutting tables, and fabrics in a very modern, hip setting. On certain nights, the store provides wine, snacks, and music to create a relaxed and fun atmosphere. Callie said that what sets her apart from other sewing store owners is that she “came at this an entrepreneur and not a hobbyist.” Although she cares about sewing, she was more so trying to find a solution for the young sewers. Callie Works-Leary is driven by giving back to the community. She has participated in many community and charity events. Callie also hopes to largely expand her business over the next few decades. This is a very unique and innovative way of making a hobby that is thought of as “old school,” cool again.
If you would like to read the whole story, click on the link below.
http://www.inc.com/30under30/2010/profile-callie-works-leary-citycraft.html
I am a huge fan on huge she turned around an industry who was only targeting one demographic whilst ignoring others. Product wise, I’ve never seen or heard of anything like this, but I am totally on board. I actually a little in lament now that there isn’t one of these in PA. Brilliant job on Callie’s part of meeting an untouched need.
I found this business idea very unique! I sew myself but it sometimes feels as though it is a dying art. Leary is using entrepreneurial skills to fulfill a need while trying to give back to the community and change culture’s perception about a hobby that is seen as old fashioned or “grannyish.” She is innovating and creating a place that defies stereotypes and appeals to millennials while creating a community for them.
I find this idea extremely interesting. It seems that sewing is a more personal hobby, but when you bring together a group of people who share the love for sewing, a community is created. I love the idea of having the nights with the wine, snacks, and music. This brings a more relaxed, younger group of artists to come together and share their passion for crafting. It always reveals to youth that sewing is not a dying hobby for their grandmothers, but can be unique and exciting.