This week, I asked Senka, the creative force and skill behind Scroonch Shop, to answer a few questions
about her craft journey, hobbies, and how this lead to starting her own scrunchie business. I hope you will also be inspired by her story!
My name is Senka. I grew up in Ottawa and just recently moved to Gatineau. When I’m not making scrunchies, I enjoy reading, drawing, rock climbing, and doing aerial silks or pole fitness
How did you get started making scrunchies?
I started sewing when I was young: my mom was always an avid sewer and taught me how to make clothing for my teddy bears. She always insisted on learning how to sew by hand before starting on the machine (thanks mom!). The first scrunchie I made was a pink floral one. I had just finished sewing a top and thought it would be awesome to have a matching scrunchie! I don’t really wear that one because it’s too tight around the wrist and doesn’t have enough scrunch for my taste, but it definitely inspired me to make more. After that, I made a few for my friends and just had a really good time making them.
At what point did you decide you wanted to start your own business?
I “started” my own business a few times. First was necklaces, then ceramic pipes, and now scrunchies. I think the scrunchies are my favorite product though, because they offer such a light and fun atmosphere and I really enjoy the creation process: I’m always looking for cool fabrics! I decided to start Scroonch during the second COVID lockdown in Ontario, after being temporarily out of a job for the third time this year and having a good amount of free time on my hands.
What are the biggest challenges you faced?
I think my biggest ongoing challenge is wanting to sell my scrunchies but feeling uncomfortable doing any sort of marketing. I’m always scared to overwhelm people with advertisements and such. I want my content to offer some sort of value to people, even if it’s just aesthetic.
What were your highlights of this year?
My personal highlight of the year is everyone moving to more outdoor activities because of COVID! Being outside is so good for the mind and body, and it’s been great seeing everyone get more active and get outside.
Another highlight would definitely be starting Scroonch. I’ve been overwhelmed with love and support from family, friends, and even strangers! It’s really allowed me to broaden my online network and discover cool things like this blog and the uOttawa DIY club, and I’ve also met a bunch of creative individuals.
Do you have any advice for people who want to try sewing?
1 - PATIENCE.
Sewing takes practice and you will mess up. You will sew the wrong side outwards. You will sew the wrong pieces together. You will close off the scrunchie before putting in the elastic. It happens. The best thing you can do is have the patience to fix your mistakes, and know when it’s worth leaving something until tomorrow. Everything can wait, everything can be fixed.
2 - Don’t be sloppy.
It’s so tempting to sew things the easier, more straightforward way but in the long term it will create more issues. It’s easier to do things correctly the first time and to watch a few tutorials on how to do it if you aren’t sure what the correct way is. Once you start getting these techniques down, sewing will become easier and you’ll have great quality pieces to wear, gift, or sell!
Thank you so much for sharing your experiences, Senka!
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