Craftonians!
I’m thrilled to share another inspiring episode of the Happy Time Craft Cast with you all. This time, I had the pleasure of talking with Kate Latham, the brilliant founder of Modern Hoopla. Kate’s story is a testament to how creativity, passion, and a dash of technology can turn a simple idea into a successful business.
From Construction to Crafting
Kate’s journey into crafting is anything but typical. She didn’t start as a full-time crafter—she actually began in public policy and later worked in web development. But like many of us, her love for creating always simmered in the background. It wasn’t until she entered the construction world, of all places, that her path into the craft industry truly began.
Using a CNC machine—a power tool usually associated with industrial work—Kate found a unique way to combine her love for woodworking and embroidery. With the same technology used for cutting wood and building homes, she started making custom frames for embroidery hoops. And let me tell you, the results are stunning. Think about it: embroidery hoops that aren’t just tools but beautifully designed frames that elevate your needlework into a piece of art.
The Magic of Problem-Solving in Crafting
What I love most about Kate’s story is how her creative mind works to solve everyday problems. In the podcast, she talks about her favorite part of the business—product development. Whether it’s her ingenious “hoop prop” for displaying embroidery or her “bobbin minder” for keeping your floss organized, each creation solves a real-world crafting challenge.
I can totally relate to this. There’s something deeply satisfying about crafting a solution, especially when it enhances your own work. I’ve always loved the idea of mixing modern tools with traditional crafts, and Kate is doing just that in such a beautiful and practical way.
Empowering Women with Tools and Creativity
Kate’s passion doesn’t stop at crafting products. One of the most inspiring parts of our conversation was hearing her speak about empowering other women in her business. She teaches her team to use tools that might traditionally be viewed as “male-dominated,” like power saws and CNC machines. I think that’s such a powerful message: creativity and craftsmanship aren’t limited by gender or the tools you use.
This hit home for me, especially when we talked about overcoming fear—whether it’s fear of using a power tool or of trying a new craft. I loved her advice to just try it. If you can handle a sewing machine, you can handle a band saw! (I’ve always said that!)
The Rise of Embroidery and Crafting Communities
During the pandemic, so many of us reconnected with the joys of crafting. Kate has seen firsthand how the popularity of embroidery has grown in recent years, especially because it’s an accessible and relaxing way to spend your time. Whether you’re stitching while watching TV or working on a special project, embroidery has this way of capturing just enough of your attention to calm your mind—a sentiment I wholeheartedly agree with.
We also talked about how social media has played such an important role in the crafting community. It’s amazing how platforms like Instagram and TikTok connect makers from all over the world, offering inspiration and support. Kate’s frames, for example, have been part of so many beautiful gallery walls and creative spaces I’ve seen online.
What’s Next for Modern Hoopla?
Kate has so many exciting things in store, including new product releases for the holidays. One that really caught my eye was her collaboration with Jenny from Lucky Junk Wolf, where they’re developing acrylic bobbins for organizing thread and floss. And let’s be honest—who doesn’t love a good organizational tool?
Kate is also experimenting with new materials like hardwood for her frames, creating a more natural, rustic look. Trust me, if you haven’t seen her work, you’ll want to check out the Modern Hoopla website. Each frame is like a little piece of art in itself.
The Takeaway
What I took away from my conversation with Kate is the importance of staying curious and open to new ideas. Whether it’s using a CNC machine for embroidery frames or collaborating with other crafters, Kate is constantly evolving her craft, and that’s something we can all learn from.
I hope you feel as inspired as I do after listening to this episode. If you’re ready to explore new creative tools and techniques, or if you just need a little push to try something out of your comfort zone, take Kate’s advice: just try it!
Show notes
In this episode of Joleen's Happy Time Craft Cast, Joleen welcomes Kate Latham, the creative force behind Modern Hoopla. Kate shares her journey from public policy to web development, and ultimately to woodworking and embroidery framing. Discover how Kate merged her technical skills and love for crafts into an innovative business that empowers both her creativity and others in the craft community.
🌟Guest Bio:
Kate Latham is the founder of Modern Hoopla, a business specializing in handcrafted frames for embroidery hoops. With a background in web development and construction, Kate transitioned her skills into the world of crafts, offering innovative solutions for crafters everywhere. Modern Hoopla frames are designed to display hand-stitched works of art in a unique and elegant way.
🌟Follow Kate on social
🌟 Episode Chapters:
- Intro and Setting the Scene (0:01)
- Kate Latham's Crafting Journey (1:07)
- From Web Development to Woodworking (2:34)
- CNC Machines in Crafting (3:49)
- Product Development and Problem Solving (6:23)
- Empowering Women Through Crafting (8:21)
- The Rise of Embroidery in Modern Times (14:11)
- New Products and Upcoming Releases (20:30)
- Final Thoughts and Takeaways (27:32)
- Retreat Announcements and Wrap-Up (29:37)
🌟 Quotes from the Episode:
- "I never expected building a business to be so all-encompassing and engaging. Every day is different, and for me, that's the blessing."
- "If you can handle a sewing machine or driving a car, you can handle power tools. It’s all about trying it out."
🌟 Links & Resources:
- Frames for embroidery hoops in various shapes and sizes.
- The “hoop prop” for easy display of embroidery.
- Bobbin Minder and Spool Minder for organizing floss and threads.
- Exclusive Listener Offer: Enjoy 10% off at ModernHoopla.co - code revealed during the podcast!
- Big Raven Farm Retreats
🌟 Next Episode: Food Canning is an Art & Science with Amber Christian
Register here
Love "Happy Time Craftcast"?
👉Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts and leave a review to help others discover our crafty community
👉Stay tuned for more Happy Time Craftcast with Joleen Emery. Subscribe now!
👉FOLLOW ME ON TIKTOK | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM
👉SIGN UP FOR THE ART KIT OF THE MONTH CLUB