We recently connected with Beth TwoStix and have shared our conversation below.
Beth, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
As a full-time, slow fashion fiber artist/knitwear designer I got my work ethic from my family each of whom worked multiple jobs and were hard workers. Being detail oriented has always been important. Mistakes have proven valuable in creating new designs as I sometimes prefer the “mistake” over the original. I am constantly striving to push myself to figure out how to make my work better. I do this by experimenting with yarn textures and color tones, almost like a painter. Way back in the day, I spent sleepless nights in architecture school, so I think that has partially helped me deal with sleep deprivation. Many times when I get an idea for a new design, I will not quit working on it until I am completely satisfied with the end product. Also, a lot of my motivation comes from never wanting to go back to working for someone else.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a Detroit born fiber artist. I launched my business 12 years ago, across from the renown Hudson’s site in Downtown Detroit. I exhibit in the fine art fair circuit and select events throughout the Midwest. I primarily design one-of-a-kind womenswear during the spring/summer. However, in the fall/winter, I focus on making accessories (beanies, scarves, fingerless gloves, etc) for men and women. During the Summer, my main focus is on my crop ponchos and slipovers with minimal accessories. The slipovers are a hit oddly enough, even in 100+ degree weather. They are special because of my unique blend of fibers and generous shapes.
My designs are made without the use of written patterns. I strive to use the best yarns, since this is critical to producing a high-end piece. Most of my pieces are made using old-word techniques or with a vintage Japanese knitting machines/loom. I learned this technique from my mom. They are special since they are hard to source and there are virtually no teachers that I know of in the states.
Next up the pipeline, I plan on experimenting with Fiber Art/Mixed Media Wall Art. Exhibiting at Art Basel is my dream!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
First, I would say my architecture background which promoted creativity. Next, I would say, having a mom who was a fiber designer, I would encourage someone starting out to experiment with a variety of arts. Also, read many publications that may catch your interest.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
This might sound silly, but it would be a collaboration with Fox Weatherman, Nick Kosir (@nickkosir). He’s known for making silly Reels on the Streets of NYC and around the United States on IG. In the past few months, I inadvertently started making lighthearted Reels with my customers and art fair besties on my IG: @twostix5stones . Nick’s content is an inspiration since he doesn’t take things too seriously. If he somehow sees this, he gets a Two Stix 5 Stones beanie! lol.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://twostix5stones.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twostix5stones/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TwoStix5Stones/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TwoStix5Stones
Image Credits
Images are my own.
