MAKER SPOTLIGHT: HEADS UP KIDS

Inspired by her children, Laura Blom has created a brand of comfortable headbands, hats and tees that even Alice Cooper’s grandkids couldn’t resist (true story). Rock on over to Deva Cafe to find Heads Up Kids at Mod Shop.

Tell us about your business name.
When I started my Etsy shop about five years ago, it had a different name, Polish (like nail polish), and was all about handmade headbands and bows for babies and little girls. Over the years my shop began to morph and grow, and I began adding more gender neutral items and items geared more for boys like beanies and trucker style hats. With the new items and different feel of what my shop was about, I felt my business needed a new name. I was still making only headwear at that time, so the name Heads Up Kids was born!

What is your creative or educational background and history behind how you created your business?
Before having my two children and starting this business, I got a Master's degree in social work and worked as a social worker with children and families. When I became a mommy and decided not to go back to work, crafting became an outlet for me. Something I could do for me, in what little spare time I had and it quickly brought me joy and a sense of accomplishment.

 
Can you take us through your process from inspiration to final product?
I am very inspired by my own children. My daughter was my inspiration for starting my business in the first place. At that time, five years ago, I could not find any baby headbands in the local stores that I liked, that were unique or even comfortable for a baby to wear. So I started making my own. When I had my son, he was my inspiration to begin adding beanies and hats. When I get a new idea, I typically bounce it off a few people, like my husband and sister, to see what they think. If they have a positive reaction to it, then I just move forward working on it. For example, with my t-shirts, I typically work with a graphic designer who takes the idea that's in my head, and makes it a professional design that can then be printed onto shirts. Sometimes I draw and carve my own stamps to use for the images, like on all my hats. Sometimes ideas pan out and are successful, and other times not, so I scrap it and start working on the next idea! It can be a very long process from idea, to final product.

What is a standout or special moment in your creative work so far?
Probably the most special moments for me has been having some of my products used in various photo shoots, one for a kids shoe company, Go Plae, and another photo shoot for Opposite of Far, a children's dress up/costume company. Also being sent a picture of rock legend Alice Cooper's twin grandsons wearing my beanies.

What dreams are on the horizon for the future of your brand?
To be honest, I don't know! I have very much enjoyed my shop over the years and how it has grown and changed as life grows and changes. I am looking forward to seeing what growth may happen this year!

Are you bringing anything new or special to Mod Shop this year that you are particularly excited about?
I have some fun new prints for beanies and headbands that I will not be releasing until Mod Shop! I also have a newer t-shirt design,"Stride or Die",  that I just recently dropped in my shop that I'm excited to bring

 
Check out more designs at www.etsy.com/shop/headsupkids and visit their shop in Deva Cafe on November 26th!