Meet Krista Cook | Fiber Artist

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

Hi Krista, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
When I was young, I was surrounded by the women in my family who were always making or cooking something. My great-grandmother taught me how to crochet and knit, my grandmother taught me how to embroider, bead and sew, and my mom taught me how to cook. Some of my best memories are being with these women, and hearing stories while we created gifts or made meals for friends and family. This instilled a very strong sense of community and a spirit of giving in me from a very early age. I have spent most of my life making items for loved ones and those closest to me because of this.

As my children grew, I had more time to craft on my own, as well as show them how to make things with their own hands and imagination. It was really special for me to share the things I learned, from those who were no longer with us. Every time I create something they are with me, and I put that into every stitch.

In a world of instant gratification and anything you could ever want just a click away, I wanted to provide something one of a kind, unique. I wanted to share my traditions, my creativity. I wanted to share the comfort of a snug winter hat that was lovingly handmade to keep someone warm. I wanted to share intentional, handmade crafting.

With the support of my family, in 2012, I started selling some of my items online. Since then, I have been able to grow my business online, at in person markets and in local shops. I am proud to provide a quality product to everyone I am lucky enough to create for. I really try to convey those traditions and love that comes with handmade art.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
-My art is inspired by the beauty that is Colorado. It is colorful and fun. I hope to create things that can serve a purpose while also bringing joy.

-I am most proud that my art and business have allowed me to give back to my community. In the last 5 years I have been able to donate over $3000.00 to local groups that support LGBTQ+ youth, farm animal sanctuaries, companion animal rescues and local high school music programs.

– A big challenge I have had to overcome is imposter syndrome. I have often heard, “oh I can get that cheaper at *insert large box store here*”. Yes, you probably can. However, I spent 3 hours making this item, one stitch at a time. I know that not everyone is a sentimentalist like me, but something about knowing that someone took their time, backed by years of trial and error and passion for their craft, to make something special, speaks to me.

I really struggled with the perceived value of my items when I first started my business. I was barely making over the cost of making my items because I was afraid that people would think that my work wasn’t worth it. It has taken me years, and a lot of self reflection, to realize that I can charge for my time and skill, and that I will find my customers who appreciate it, like I do

-I want my brand to represent joy and the feeling of being part of something bigger. Of being a part of keeping traditions alive and welcoming everyone to share in them.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We would definitely go to the mountains for a hike or some relaxing by the river. Maybe Golden Gate Canyon, Echo Lake or Estes Park. I love to support small local business, so we would go eat some where like Meta Burger, City O City or stopping by Pearl Street market to shop and eat at The Easy Vegan in Denver. Maybe finding a local coffee shop, like East Simpson, to work on a craft project together or taking a painting class at Whimsy Paint and Sip.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Honestly, if I did not have the support of my family, I would not be able to do half of the things I have. They have encouraged me, been my inspiration and sometimes even my photographers and packaging/shipping assistants.
They help remind me why I started this business and what I’m doing it for.

Website: keenoncolorado,com

Instagram: @keenoncolorado

Image Credits
photos by Ethan Cook