We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ashley Blevins. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Ashley, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
One of my most meaningful goals is to spread the love of crafting and create a welcoming space that encourages creativity. I’m so proud that I started offering Smash-a-Craft classes last fall! My first workshop was a Make Your Own Suncatcher class, where participants used beautiful crystals and gold embellishments to create sparkling suncatchers. This craft is perfect because anyone can do it regardless of experience, and each participant’s suncatcher turns out unique to them. I partnered with local breweries to host the events, which created such an enjoyable atmosphere. I’m thrilled to have launched this side of my business and have many more classes planned for 2026!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Ashley! I’m the gal behind Smash-a-Craft, a small sewing and handmade craft business based in Colorado. I create and sell handmade sewn treasures like fanny packs, upcycled clothing, home decor, and more. You’ll find my handcrafted goodies online and at local vendor events, and I also offer custom creations and private sewing lessons.
Most recently, I expanded my business to include public craft classes, where I provide all the materials and instruction for participants to make their own fun handmade creations (like suncatchers, disco balls, and painted ceramic pieces).
My brand focuses on high-quality items, craftsmanship, sustainable materials, and inspiring the creative side in others. My passion for crafting, creativity, and conservation weaves its way into every stitch, every design, and every class I teach.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
As I start this new year and grow my business, I’m realizing how important it is to release my self-limiting beliefs. In the past, they may have felt like protection, from failure, from risks that could end badly, from feeling embarrassed or inadequate. And certainly, every step of creating my own small business has felt like a struggle at times. I’ve had things not go my way, like sales falling short of expectations at an event. But I’ve also had success in ways I never imagined, especially when I’ve taken a leap and believed in myself enough to try something new. For example, I sold out my first two public craft classes! Wow, did that feel good!
Selling my own handmade creations or asking people to buy a ticket to a craft class I’ve designed can feel vulnerable. I put my heart into everything I design and create, so rejection can feel personal. But I’ve learned that what it takes to be a successful business owner is vulnerability, taking a chance on myself and saying, “World, here I am! This is what I have to offer, and it’s true to myself. I believe in my talents and my ability to be successful!”
To be honest, self-confidence has never come easy for me. I’ve had to push past those voices of self-doubt and self-limiting beliefs to pursue my goals and dreams. I work on becoming a more confident and self-assured person every day. So it’s time to release that negative inner talk and see what possibilities will come my way for me and my business, when I truly believe in myself.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
One of the hardest times for me was when my mother passed away. It’s hard to believe it was over six years ago. She was also a very creative person and owned her own interior design business. In the very early days of Smash-a-Craft, she was so enthusiastic about me starting this journey. She helped me create a digital version of my hand-drawn sewing machine logo (the logo I still use today!) and encouraged me to follow my dreams.
I miss her every day. I wish I could share my successes and struggles with her, ask for her advice on hard days, and show her how far I’ve come. I know she would be so proud of me.
I wouldn’t say I’ve completely healed from the wound of losing her. I don’t know if I ever will. But I have grown stronger around it. I’ve learned to lean into the grief instead of fighting it. I know that I carry her creativity, passion, and love of art with me as I live my life and follow my own path. I think of her often and hear her saying, “It’s not how you fall, it’s how you get back up!”
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m committed to publishing a book one day! I’ve been slowly writing a craft book whenever I can find the time. I know it might take years to finish and publish, but I’m determined to make this dream a reality.
I actually have an old, folded-up piece of paper from elementary school with my hand-written bucket list, and near the top is “publish a book.” This has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember. So keep an eye out, one day it will happen!
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Call it perfectionism, attention to detail, or pride in my craft, no matter how you see it, I truly give my best in everything I do for Smash-a-Craft. High-quality craftsmanship is so important to me and my brand. I take my time and put care and love into every stitch and every creation. Even if no one ever recognized it, I would still take pride in putting my best foot forward. It’s simply who I am.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.smashacraft.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smash.a.craft
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-blevins-7244a268
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smashacraftcolorado
- Other: To join one of my upcoming crafty classes, check out https://smashacraft.com/upcoming-events
Image Credits
Smash-a-Craft
