We’re looking forward to introducing you to Jennifer Himstedt. Check out our conversation below.
Jennifer, 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’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about your customers?
The most surprising thing I’ve learned is that everyone really connects with the silly side of what I make. No matter where I set up, from a small neighborhood market or a bigger event, people seem to be amused by (and even sometimes buy!) the quirky characters and unusual ideas. It’s fun to watch how a plush bat or a goofy blockhead can bring a smile and people connect to certain colors or characters that I was drawn to make. Sometimes even customer has an even sillier idea which turns into a commission, and other times they’re just something I’ve made to amuse myself, but the reactions are always curiosity and appreciation. That shared sense of joy has been such a big part of how Scrap Sidekick has grown and why I keep leaning into the playful and creative side of using scraps (and hope to continue).
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Jennifer, the maker behind Scrap Sidekick, and I’ve been crafting since I was a kid, and I actually learned how to hand-sew from my grandma, who has since passed. Scrap Sidekick is really dedicated to her (and she liked most of my designs and would be my supportive critique from time to time), I feel like I’m carrying on that connection.
The brand grew out of my love for the texture and “doodle potential” of felt and turning scraps into something fun for others. Every piece is cut, stitched, and stuffed by hand, using repurposed materials whenever I can. The result is a collection of whimsical sidekicks (from bats and blockheads to spooky little characters) all made to spark smiles. Right now, I’m building out the brand (brand new website) and getting back into markets to help me continue to connect with people. Scrap Sidekick is about creativity, sustainability, and a good dose of silliness…or with my new tagline: “Felt weird.”
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
Honestly, I believed it applied to everyone and realized I could break my own mold. I really believed I had to have everything perfectly figured out before I could start something, and it was time contingent. Like knowing the “end goal” to all the steps along the way was a prerequisite to have a plan fo rmy life. I thought there was some “right time” when you’d magically be ready…to be ready.
Now believe anyone can start (or even restart) as many times as needed. Or just jump in and see if you even want to figure it out. Life doesn’t pause but I can keep moving forward, keep experimenting, and keep figuring things out along the way.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
I don’t even know why I picked this question because it’s a heavy one compared to my “silly” brand but I think, in my life, it’s been a little connected as whole-person centered with Scrap Sidekick. Suffering taught me that you really can make it through some of the hardest, most messed up times and that people who love you will be there. I’ve gone through some tough experiences, from burn unit hospital stays to brain MRIs, and I came out the other side and still think making creepy creatures is the most fun thing to do in my free time. What I learned is that I’m tougher than I thought, and that the people closest to me will stand by me whether I’m at my lowest, trying, or finding success. Success for me is also the “through it” part of suffering…the high five after the struggle, the proof that the effort and persistence paid off. The success part seems better because of the resilience, perspective + gratitude.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I’m not sure if it counts but as it’s my soundtrack today: Karen O from the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. She’s unapologetically herself on stage while being bold, creative, and willing to be weird in the best way. There’s such an authenticity in the way she performs, and I admire how she’s done her own thing while never trying to fit into any “mold”. I think that authenticity is really inspiring for my own work with Scrap Sidekick. Making felt creations is creative but a sense of bringing that authenticity every time I have imposter syndrome to my online branding or in-person markets…even when it’s unconventional…is what makes my work meaningful and memorable to some.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace in West Texas…the pace, the wide-open views, the intentionality, and the creativity everywhere I look. And the views!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.scrapsidekick.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scrapsidekick/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scrapsidekick/
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ScrapSidekick
Image Credits
Clint McCarty
