Local Artisan Revives Sewing Tradition with Trendy Ski Hoods

In the heart of Carbondale, Colorado, Caitlin Kennett has turned her passion for sewing into a thriving business called Neighbor Hoods.

From her cozy studio filled with vibrant fleece fabrics, Kennett creates unique, comfortable, and stylish ski hoods, beanies, adventure dresses, and more.

This blog post delves into Kennett’s journey, the inspiration behind her brand, and how her handmade creations have become a local favorite.

The Roots of a Family Craft

For Caitlin Kennett, sewing is more than just a hobby; it’s a cherished family tradition.

She grew up in a rural area where self-sufficiency was the norm. Kennett learned the art of sewing from her grandmother, an avid quilter.

Her earliest memories involve practicing sewing lines on paper under her grandmother’s watchful eye. This early exposure instilled a lifelong love for creating with fabric.

A Legacy of Creativity

Kennett’s grandmother’s influence is evident in her meticulous craftsmanship and innovative designs.

She also has a framed photo of her aunt, Peggy Wight, sewing her prom dress. This serves as a constant reminder of the family legacy.

Despite sewing being considered a lost art in some communities, Kennett proudly carries on the tradition. She has been tailoring her own clothes, quilting, and creating unique projects for over three decades.

The Birth of Neighbor Hoods

Although sewing was always a part of Kennett’s life, it wasn’t until 2021 that it became a source of income.

Inspired by the ski hoods she admired on the slopes, Kennett decided to create her own fleece ski hood.

The response was overwhelming, with people eager to purchase her creations. This demand led to the birth of Neighbor Hoods, a brand that exudes friendliness and locality.

From Ski Hoods to Adventure Dresses

Initially focused on ski hoods, Kennett’s business quickly expanded to include a variety of products.

Encouraged by friends, she began creating beanies, skirts, and her popular adventure dresses—extra-long hoodies perfect for wearing with leggings.

Most of her products are made from brightly colored, cozy fleece fabric, which has become a staple of her brand.

Community Connection and Local Impact

Kennett’s creations are not just popular for their comfort and style; they also foster a sense of community.

Seeing people around town and on the slopes wearing her handmade items brings her immense joy. Each piece is a testament to her skill and creativity, and spotting someone in her designs is one of her greatest simple pleasures.

Deck the Walls Holiday Market

For those interested in purchasing Kennett’s creations, her products are available at the Deck the Walls Holiday Market at Carbondale Arts.

This festive shop features goods by over 60 local and regional artists, transforming the gallery space into a holiday wonderland.

The market is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., through December 24.

Crafting a Brand with Heart

Kennett’s dedication to her craft and her community is evident in every aspect of Neighbor Hoods.

From the friendly, local vibe inspired by Mr. Rogers to the unique, handcrafted products, her brand is a reflection of her passion and creativity.

Each item is made with care, ensuring that it is not only stylish but also functional and comfortable.

Innovation and Customization

One of the key factors behind Neighbor Hoods’ success is Kennett’s willingness to innovate and customize her designs.

She often tweaks downloaded patterns to create unique pieces, and many of her ideas come from customer requests.

This flexibility allows her to cater to a wide range of preferences and needs, ensuring that there is something for everyone in her collection.

Supporting Local Artisans

By purchasing from Neighbor Hoods, customers are not only getting high-quality, handmade products but also supporting a local artisan.

Kennett’s business is a testament to the value of local craftsmanship and the importance of preserving traditional arts. Her success story is an inspiration to aspiring crafters and entrepreneurs alike.

A Bright Future

As Neighbor Hoods continues to grow, Kennett remains committed to her roots and her community.

She looks forward to expanding her product line and reaching even more customers. At the same time, she’ll maintain the personal touch that makes her brand so special.

With her passion and dedication, the future looks bright for Caitlin Kennett and Neighbor Hoods.

For more information on Caitlin Kennett and Neighbor Hoods, visit the original article on the Post Independent.