Jen Fox reached out to us in April to see whether we could help her with custom sewn organic cotton zip pouches and printed bandanas. By August her order was in-hand in her studio in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This collaboration not only brought her vibrant designs to life but also reinforced our commitment to supporting artists in their creative journeys.
Our client Jen Fox and founder Theresa VanderMeer in Chicago
Building a Meaningful Partnership
Jen of Jen Fox Studio designs nature-based modern illustrations, creative that is rooted in folk art. Her art is also influenced by her Norwegian and Pennsylvania Dutch heritage. She initially reached out because she had a vision for new art and wanted to expand her product line, but without the strain of handling all the production herself. This collaboration quickly grew into a partnership centered on creativity and quality production.
Serendipitously, right after Jen reached out she shared that she had a personal travel plan in the works to visit Chicago. Our American team and founder Theresa VanderMeer works out of the Uptown neighborhood. Jen and Theresa had the opportunity to meet and talk shop while Jen was visiting.
Jen with a sewing machine she used to sew pouches for many years
How Work+Shelter Helps Creative Businesses Scale
At Work+Shelter, we focus on supporting women-in-need through meaningful work, and for Jen, whose art is very personal – the commitment to ethical practices made producing her order with us a perfect fit.
Jen was also struggling with a particular issue we at Work+Shelter have seen time and again: artists, creators, and entrepreneurs who initially handle every aspect of their business eventually hit a point where they can no longer do it all.
Jen was at the point where she needed help. For years she not only designed products, handled sales and marketing, but also stitched every single item herself. At first, she really loved doing all of the work, but after a while she started to burn out. No one person can do everything. What's more, with wholesale buyers like FLYBY Provisions she had increased demand for her cards and accessories. Keeping up with sewing the bags became a challenge.
That’s where we were happy to help. As businesses grow, we provide them with the support they need with manufacturing so they can scale without sacrificing their ethics.
Jen with a Work+Shelter made zip pouch
A Shared Vision for Ethical Growth
This partnership has been rewarding for us at Work+Shelter. By collaborating with artists like Jen, we ensure that small businesses get the production support they deserve. Beyond sourcing eco-friendly materials and sewing these beautiful pouches and bandanas, we handle the heavy lifting needed to get the order to the United States including managing logistics and the customs process.
We’re excited to continue supporting Jen and other creative entrepreneurs on their journeys to grow their businesses. Our mission goes beyond producing high-quality products; we empower our clients to scale while remaining true to their core values. As Jen’s product line expands, we’ll be right there, creating more ethical and beautiful sewn goods that align with both her vision and our commitment to providing dignified employment for women in India.
Work+Shelter's own Khushi holding a zip pouch
Looking to Scale Your Sustainable Indie Product Line?
If you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or creative looking to scale your business while maintaining a commitment to ethical practices, we’re here to help. At Work+Shelter, we specialize in bringing custom designs to life, all while supporting fair wages and sustainable production. Let’s build something meaningful together, email us at hello@workshelter.co.
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