In this episode of Splitting Seams, I'm joined by my good friend Brittany of The Empurrium, who is celebrating 15 years in business. We talk honestly about what that actually looks like — the highs, the chaos, the burnout, and the reality of staying in business for that long when life keeps happening around it. We also discuss Brittany's recent shift from full-time self employment to a more traditional job, and all the emotions, perspective shifts, and realities involved in such a major shift.

Fair warning: we definitely go on a few tangents in this one, and there is a lot of cat talk. If you love cats, stories, and conversations that wander a bit, you’ll feel right at home.

Brittany's Links:

• FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/TheEmPURRium
• FB Groups:
  • https://www.facebook.com/groups/empurrium/
  • https://www.facebook.com/groups/empurriumpurrfectstitches
• IG & TT: @theempurrium
• YouTube: @BrittanyEmpurrium
• Website: https://theempurrium.com/
• PREORDER (Active until Feb 15, 2026): https://theempurrium.com/collections/preorder
• Email: brittany@theempurrium.com

Shannon's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/knottedthreadsco

In this episode of Splitting Seams, I sit down for a long, honest, and sometimes technical bag-making chat with Jess of Wish Upon a Rainbow. We talk about bag making differences across the US and UK, the importance of support networks, meeting people where they’re at, and what it’s been like for Jess running a high-demand handmade business. We discuss self expression, talent vs skill, and some upcoming changes to her business. Jess offers some absolutely amazing insights into all things, so it was truly a treat to chat with her.

Jess's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Wishuponarainbow

Shannon's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/knottedthreadsco

Support the show and get early access to episodes and more by joining the Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/SplittingSeams

In this episode of Splitting Seams, Olivia's and I discuss her journey from cosplay to owning a business in our sewing community, her passion for creating fandom art that translates into custom hardware and fabrics, and the challenges of running a small business. Olivia shares insights into her creative process, the importance of community, and the lessons learned from collaborations. We also touch on the significance of mental health and self-kindness in our little creative world.

Olivia's Socials!:

Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/alchemats

Instagram: @alchematsdesigns

TikTok: @alchemats

Alchemats Website: alchemats.com

New website offering standard hardware and other non-fandom specific items: basic-crafts.com

Shannon's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/knottedthreadsco

Support the show and get early access to episodes and more by joining the Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/SplittingSeams