Meet Keyana McNeill | Fiber Artist & Baker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Keyana McNeill and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Keyana, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
At first, crocheting was something I couldn’t even get the hang of, but I was always determined to learn. When I finally got the hang of it, it was just a hobby, something fun to do since I had more free time. I started this journey during my last year of college, I finished my last year of band, and was preparing to graduate all in the same semester. My mother and her husband encouraged me to turn this into a business. I was hesitant at first because originally, the only crocheted items I’d really see were blankets and scarves. Which in Texas is pretty much only good for 3 months out of the year. I spent the rest of the summer working on different projects to build up a portfolio and better my skills. From there, I centered my focus on getting my brand out more, social media, farmers markets, pop-up shops, whatever I was able to do. It was very challenging especially since there were other fiber artists on campus who were very talented! Bu we all worked together in our own community almost to help and support each other.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Three of my aunts crochet, one of them made everyone in the family baby blankets when they were born (yes, I still have it), the other ones do different clothing items arnd accessorries like scarves, purses, etc. I’ve always taken an interest in the craft but I could never get the hang of it. Professionally, this has been a long journey, outside of crocheting, I also bake. I am a self-taught baker, I’ve been baking since I was a kid. Thinking back to my last year of college, i was operating both busiinesses at the same time, on top of classes, senior projects, managing a social life, and preparing for graduation at the same time. All in a span of four months! By no means would I lsbel it easy but it was an exhilirating experience! I would say what I am most proud of is my willingness to learn. When I did events or had people come and ask how long have I been doing this and the reaction always makes my day.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would probaby take them to the Bishop Arts District, there’s a lot to eat and do over there. I would definitely take them to El Fenix, Fisherman’s Kitchen, Wabi House and Rice Wok, its a little hole=in=the-wall shop by my mom’s house. Those are my absolute favorite places to eat. We could go to the Dallas Farmers Market, I’m pretty much obsessed with them now. The AT&T Discovery District always has some cool things going on as well. I would end the week in Deep Ellum to walk around and listen to live music.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I dedicate this to my family and support system who always pushes me to go past my boundaries, reach for the stars, and to achieve everything I believe I can do. I thank my parents for being the strong foundation in my life and their seemingly endless guidance.

Website: https://keyanaskrochet.myshopify.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keyanaskrochet?igsh=MXNvZzQ5NWdlNnBxcQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/keyanaskrochet/

Other: https://www.pinterest.com/keyanaskrochet/
keyanaskrochet@gmail.com