Susie Kirch shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Susie, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
My mornings start slowly these days – coffee, check the news, relax with a couple of computer games and then I do a little work. First, I check my ETSY shop activity to see if I have any messages that need responses or orders I will need to pack and ship. Then I create some sort of social media post for Instagram and Facebook, just to connect a little with my followers. I try to post any new aprons on Pinterest and highlight the seasonal aprons if a holiday is coming up. After the fist couple hours (and cups of coffee, lol) I’m ready to start the day. I brief my husband on our “POD” (plan of the day) which might include appointments, chores, meals, etc. and then head to work.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
At 74 years old, I never imagined I’d be running a thriving business, but for the past 14 years, I’ve poured my creativity and energy into my Etsy shop, where I specialize in handmade aprons. To date, I’ve sewn more than 6,800 aprons and over 1,500 other creations—from quilts to mug rugs to microwave bowls.
What makes my shop special is that I design aprons for everyone: men, women, children, and especially plus-sized customers who often struggle to find aprons that fit comfortably and beautifully. Each apron is carefully crafted by me alone—I handle every step of the process, from purchasing fabric to sewing, photography, advertising, packaging, and even the bookkeeping.
My aprons are more than just kitchen wear—they’re part of my customer’s daily lives, gifts for loved ones, and even family traditions. That’s what makes this work so rewarding.
In addition to my business, I’ve also spent the last few years as the full-time caregiver for my husband, who battles cancer and diabetes. Balancing both roles hasn’t been easy, but sewing has given me a creative outlet, a sense of purpose, and a way to connect with people all over the world.
At its heart, my brand is about care, resilience, and the joy of making something useful and lasting by hand.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
I was born and raised in northern Minnesota, where hard work wasn’t just encouraged, it was expected. My parents and grandparents lived by a strong work ethic, and they passed that on to me from the very beginning. By the time I was 15, I was already working, and I’ve never really stopped.
That upbringing taught me that work is more than just earning a paycheck—it’s about doing things with care, pride, and persistence. It’s the same philosophy I carry into my sewing today. Every apron I make reflects that heritage of diligence and dedication.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There have been moments when I wondered if I’d keep going — I certainly didn’t expect to still be sewing after 14 years. I’ll never forget apron number 300; I stood back and said, ‘Holy cow — I made 300!’ After that it felt a little ridiculous even to tell people. Retirement flits through my mind often, but then I head to the fabric store, find something I can’t resist, and the whole cycle starts again. Sewing keeps me going. Someday my children will probably curse me when they inherit 400 pounds of fabric from my closets, but honestly, it’s been a lot of fun.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. How do you differentiate between fads and real foundational shifts?
The beauty of making aprons is that I don’t really have to worry about separating fads from true shifts. An apron is such a classic piece — it’s been around for hundreds of years and isn’t going anywhere. Of course, there are always trends, and I try to keep up with what’s popular. A few years ago, flamingos were everywhere; then sloths showed up. When the whole ‘foodie’ movement took off, food-themed aprons had their moment. I’ll make some aprons in fun, trendy fabrics, but most of the time I stick to tried-and-true prints that always appeal — things like wine, sunflowers, and birds. That way my aprons feel both timeless and fresh.”
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
If I retired tomorrow, I think most of my customers would simply find another source for a good, sturdy apron ‘like Grandma used to wear.’ But the ones who might truly miss me are my plus-size ladies and men. I married into a family of very tall, often large people, so I learned firsthand how hard it can be to find clothes that fit comfortably. Over time, making beautiful, well-fitting aprons in plus sizes has become a bit of a mission for me. I love it when someone writes to say how thrilled they are to finally find a pretty apron in their size. Their kindness and appreciation keep me going — and honestly, I’d miss them, too.”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.etsy.com/shop/SusiesTieOneOnAprons
- Instagram: Tieoneon.susie
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/SusiesTieOneOnAprons
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