Starting My Own Business After Uni — Scary, but So Exciting

✨ Starting My Own Business After Uni — Scary, but So Exciting

Starting your own business is always a leap of faith. But doing it after university, as I approach my 50s, feels like both the scariest and most exciting chapter of my life so far.

After completing my degree in Surface Pattern and Textile Design, I found myself reflecting on what truly brings me joy. For years, I’ve poured love into sewing for my children and grandchildren, creating clothes, quilts, and special keepsakes. But it was the memory bear I made for my mum, stitched from my late dad’s jumper and jeans, that changed everything. It helped us hold onto something we loved and gave his memory a comforting, huggable presence. That bear sparked the beginning of Backstitch Bobbin.

Launching this business hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced fears, doubts, and lots of learning curves ,from websites to social media, business plans to branding. It’s been a whirlwind. But I’ve come to realise that it’s never too late to begin something new. My age isn’t a limitation, it’s a strength. I bring years of lived experience, creative exploration, and emotional depth to every bear, cushion, and quilt I make.

My dream for Backstitch Bobbin is to build something meaningful — a small, heart-led business that creates comfort and connection. I want to help people preserve memories in a beautiful, handmade way. I hope to one day run workshops, grow my offerings, and maybe even teach others how to create memory bears themselves.

It’s still early days, but I’m walking forward with gratitude, courage, and a sewing machine that’s seen a lot of love.

To anyone else wondering if it’s too late to chase a dream: it’s not. You just have to start.

With love,

LORNA X