Welcoming Every Maker: Building Community on Purpose

In the fiber community, yarn shops and other retail spaces often serve as the heart of the local community. But building a space where everyone feels they belong takes intention.

In this two part workshop, Cecilia Nelson-Hurt, also known as Creative Ceci, invites shop owners to explore what inclusivity looks like in the context of the fiber arts. Participants will discuss common barriers that can prevent new makers from feeling comfortable and learn thoughtful ways to foster connection, representation, and belonging within their shops. The session combines storytelling, reflection, and practical ideas that shop owners can immediately bring back to their communities.