Today we’d like to introduce you to Juli Brinkley.
Hi Juli, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
In the heart of Cedar Park, Texas, Juli’s journey with knitting began as a thread of hope during a challenging chapter. When the job market felt like an uphill climb and the weight of uncertainty grew heavy. She picked up a skein of chunky yarn in January, seeking solace and purpose. What started as a simple way to combat depression and anxiety soon blossomed into a passion that brought purpose, color and warmth back to her days.
Coined “Nonni” by her granddaughters, Juli is the proud creator of *Nonni’s Handmade Hugs*, She crafts each piece with love, care, and the belief that handmade items carry a little magic. Her creations—cuddly plushies, cozy blankets, and whimsical designs—are more than just yarn; they’re stories of resilience, creativity, and the comfort of a hug. Juli’s finger knitting not only filled her own days with joy but also became a way to share that joy with others, one thoughtful stitch at a time.
When Juli isn’t knitting, she’s an Executive Assistant, competing vocalist in a barbershop quartet, a dog mom, and a proud grandmother to 6 beautiful girls. She also enjoys dreaming up new patterns, sharing her story to inspire others, and reminding the world that even in difficult times, creativity can be a guiding light.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has not been as smooth as I’d have liked, but I figure there are lessons to be learned through all the ups and downs. I was laid off from my job a year ago and the job market has been — and still is — atrocious. There are so many people who are hurting, depressed and hopeless because they’re experiencing the same things that I am. Where once I would get interviews and offers super quickly, now they’re virtually nonexistent. I’ve been ghosted by recruiters and potential employers who promise a second interview. The number of employment scams out there is ridiculous.
All that to say that without income, purchasing supplies to create merchandise has been a huge uphill struggle. I’m fortunate that I have a very kind and supportive partner (who is also an amazing maker) and he has helped me with getting the needed supplies.
I’ve also resorted to the barter system. I’ve crafted blankets, plushies and, my specialty, baby blanket/plushie combos in trade for other resources that I need.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At *Nonni’s Handmade Hugs*, each creation is a labor of love and care, imbued with the mission to bring warmth and comfort to people’s lives. Specializing in hand-knit treasures, I focus on crafting cozy plushies, comforting blankets, and heartfelt pieces that feel as personal as the hugs they’re meant to emulate. My work isn’t just about knitting stitches—it’s about weaving stories, resilience, and a sense of connection into every piece.
What I’m most proud of is how this venture grew out of a personal challenge and became something that touches the lives of others. Starting in January as a way to navigate difficult emotions, my knitting has blossomed into a purpose-driven endeavor. I’ve received heartfelt messages from people who’ve found solace or joy in my creations, and that connection is my greatest reward.
I am most known for my baby blanket and coordinating plushie sets. At the onset of each order, I visit with the client, get their thoughts on colors and then I design a unique, bespoke set that is one-of-a-kind.
What sets me apart is that *Nonni’s Handmade Hugs* isn’t just about beautiful, high-quality knits—it’s about the deeper meaning behind them. Every piece carries a story of perseverance and the comforting reminder that we all deserve to feel cared for and loved. Add to that the attention to detail, the choice of premium materials, and my drive to create items that feel uniquely personal, and that’s what makes *Nonni’s Handmade Hugs* special.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Good question… I wear and have worn many hats over the years. I think a unique thing or two is that I’m the mother of a child actor (now grown) that was in a major motion picture with Mel Gibson, Heath Ledger, Jolie Richardson and Jason Issacs. We were on set for four months and hung out with them (and others) like old friends.
I am also a professional vocalist and perform in a trio reminiscent of the 1940’s Andrew Sisters. We won the short lived TV show, “Showville” for our town back in the early 2000’s. .
Pricing:
- Custom orders are priced per order.
- Stuffies range from $15-$100 depending upon size.
- Blankets start at $60 and go up depending upon size.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/hugsbynonni?
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hugsbynonni?igsh=MXV6bmM3bm1vZXBwbg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ARV7EL7q3/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@julianne.brinkley?_t=ZT-8vLCp6uaio2&_r=1
Image Credits
All i it mages were taken by me.
