Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Eagan.
Hi Melissa, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I learned to knit when I was 12, using a book at my grandma’s house that only had line drawings of hands, not even photos. It’s a miracle I figured it out, but I’ve been knitting every since, almost 30 years. I since also learned to crochet, sew, quilt, and how to do a bunch of other hand crafts.
I found out about City Sewing Room when I was between sewing machines and needed to finish a project, so I used some studio time to use their sewing machines. I met a ton of new sewing friends and had a blast. The owner overheard that I knit and crochet and asked if I would like to teach some classes. I never had before, but I decided to give it a try. They ended up being a huge success and I taught many classes there plus a bunch of other places throughout the city.
I recently opened my own sewing/knitting/crochet studio called Black Hole Studio where I teach classes and offer studio time as well. It takes a lot out of me, but it’s always fun sharing my knowledge with other people and seeing my students grow in their crafts.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I think I’ve been fairly lucky in my journey in that I’ve had a lot of support, from my husband and from the community. Lots of kind words and encouragement. There hasn’t been anything that I haven’t been able to overcome.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As far as making finished products go, my main focuses are shawls/cowls, hats, and plushies. The plushies are always very popular and I can never keep them in stock. For teaching, my students have always told me that I am very patient, which I am very proud of. I don’t care how long it takes or how many different ways I need to demonstrate it, the goal is for the student to figure it out and learn the craft.
The thing I am most proud of is raising money for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. I have been fundraising for them since 2019 and have raised over $17,000. Every year I make and raffle off a quilt and the one I am most proud of is the year I made 2 quilts that say “You Are Not Alone” in the middle with blocks around the outside that were made by both myself and members of my community. It really was a group effort and I’m so glad to have one of them go to someone who has been affected by suicide and the other one hangs in my studio to provide hope and comfort to people who may be struggling.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
I’ve really learned (well, still in the process of learning) not to beat yourself up when things go wrong. It’s going to work out and it’s not as bad as you think it is. I tend to see every setback as an indication that I am a failure, when in reality, things are just fine. It’s been teaching me to be more resilient and confident in myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.blackholestudiostl.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackholestudiostl/
- Twitter: not twitter, but my Loops of Gray instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loopsofgray/
- Other: https://www.loopsofgray.com/
