We were lucky to catch up with Katherine Catarino recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Katherine, you’ve got such an interesting story, but before we jump into that, let’s first talk about a topic near and dear to us – generosity. We think success, happiness and wellbeing depends on authentic generosity and empathy and so we’d love to hear about how you become such a generous person – where do you think your generosity comes from?
My generosity comes from my mom, who has always guided me with her unwavering love and support. She taught me from a young age that giving back not only helps others but also brings a sense of fulfillment and peace to your own heart. Through her example, I learned the true meaning of empathy—how to listen, care, and stand by those in need. Whether it was through small acts of kindness or larger community efforts, she showed me that making a difference in someone’s life is one of the most rewarding things you can do. Her compassion and selflessness continue to inspire me every day, reminding me that a generous spirit can truly change the world.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am the heart and hands behind Creative Kat Designs, where I transform cherished clothing into handmade keepsake bears that offer comfort, love, and a tangible connection to memories. Since 2022, shortly after I lost my dad, I’ve been combining memories and teddy bears to help people hold onto the stories and moments that matter most. My first bear was made out of my dad’s clothes that I gifted to my mom on Christmas Day, our first Christmas without him. I saw how much it meant to her and decided this is something people needed to aid in their grief journey.
What makes my work truly special is the opportunity to hear people’s stories—stories of love, loss, celebration, and remembrance. It’s not just about sewing fabric together; it’s about weaving memories into something you can hold close during life’s hardest and most beautiful moments. The most exciting part of what I do is knowing that each bear I create becomes a lasting tribute that brings comfort and hope to those who receive it.
Recently, I’ve been more involved in community events and collaborations, continuing to find new ways to share the message of healing through creativity. I am always looking for new opportunities to connect with people who value preserving memories in a unique and meaningful way. Whether it’s through crafting memory bears or supporting my community, I strive to make a positive impact—one stitch at a time.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are empathy, attention to detail, and perseverance.
Empathy is at the core of everything I do. Listening to people’s stories and understanding the emotions tied to their memories allows me to create bears that truly honor their loved ones. For anyone just starting, I encourage you to practice active listening—really hearing what people share without judgment. This will help you build meaningful connections and create something truly special.
Attention to detail is essential when working with sentimental items. Every stitch matters, and taking the time to get it right shows respect for the memories entrusted to you. Developing this skill takes patience, so embrace the process and don’t rush your work. Practice and dedication will make your craftsmanship shine.
Perseverance has been key to building Creative Kat Designs. There were moments of doubt and challenges along the way, but staying committed to my passion kept me moving forward. For those starting their journey, remember that setbacks are part of growth. Keep pushing through, learn from your experiences, and stay focused on why you began in the first place.
By nurturing these qualities, you’ll build not just a successful path but a meaningful one. Stay true to your passion, and let your dedication guide you through every challenge.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was nurture my passion from a young age. My dad played a huge role in that—he bought me my first sewing machine when I was just 14, and it became the foundation of my journey. He was also in the sewing industry, so he taught me the standard techniques early on, sharing his knowledge and skills with patience and pride. Those lessons shaped not only my craft but also my work ethic and dedication to quality.
Since his passing, every bear I make reminds me of him. It’s like carrying a piece of his legacy forward with each stitch. Knowing that he believed in me and wanted to share his passion made me feel supported and inspired, and it’s something I carry with me every time I sit down to sew. Creating these memory bears not only honors the stories of others but also keeps my dad’s spirit alive through the love and craftsmanship he passed down to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.creativekat.ca
- Instagram: Creative.kat.designs
Image Credits
Breakfast television interview with host Meredith Shaw
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
