Rosie, the founder of Sew Eco Fabrics, is a shining example of how passion, sustainability, and hard work can come together to create a successful business. With a childhood dream of owning a fabric shop and a passion for sewing, Rosie took the leap and started her own business in October 2022. "I've always dreamt of having a fabric shop since I was little," Rosie shares. "After working in retail for over a decade, and seeing the impact of unethical and unsustainable business practices, I knew I wanted to do things differently."
Sew Eco Fabrics is more than just a fabric shop - it's a business with a mission to inspire sewists to sew their wardrobes more consciously, while supporting people and the planet. Rosie's commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of her business, from the carefully curated fabrics she sells to the eco-friendly packaging she uses. "Our planet deserves better, and I want to be part of the solution," Rosie says. "That's why I made the decision from the start that I wouldn't compromise on sustainability for profit."
Rosie's dedication to eco-friendly practices extends to her packaging choices as well. She sources compostable mailers, paper mailers, and an extra-large paper sack from Simplelifeco, ensuring that every aspect of her business aligns with her values. "Our packaging choices are just as important as the products we sell," Rosie explains. "I want to provide a seamless and sustainable experience for our customers, from the moment they place an order to when they receive it."
One of Rosie's favourite parts of running Sew Eco Fabrics is the constant fabric shopping - a sewist's dream come true! She also finds joy in packing up orders and seeing the fabric choices that customers make. But it's the positive feedback from customers that truly motivates Rosie. "It's incredibly rewarding to know that our customers appreciate our commitment to sustainability and quality products," she says.
While running a business comes with its challenges, Rosie faces them with determination and optimism. As she navigates the intricacies of entrepreneurship, she remains focused on her goal of expanding Sew Eco Fabrics and eventually opening a brick-and-mortar store. For anyone thinking of starting their own business, Rosie has some sage advice to offer: "Be prepared for challenges, but don't let them deter you. Stay true to your values, work hard, and persevere. The rewards are worth it."
She also added, "It's not going to be easy, and there will be plenty of times you feel like you're failing. Just remember failing is part of learning, and you have to fail sometimes to grow."
Through her dedication to sustainability, passion for sewing, and commitment to ethical business practices, Rosie serves as a beacon of inspiration for other small businesses. Sew Eco Fabrics not only offers a wide range of beautiful fabrics but also stands as a testament to the positive impact that conscious and sustainable business practices can have on the community and the environment. 
Drop her a follow on the socials @sewecofabrics or head over to her store https://sewecofabrics.co.uk/
Photo credit: @jenesonstudio