I'm a Maker Because...
Miniviews series - No. 40 with Tiffany Zadi
You’ve landed on the fortieth installment of the Maker Miniviews (mini, two question interviews) series. Learn more about these maker interviews and view a list of all Miniviews.
Tiffany Zadi is a full-time designer and leather-smith. While earning her undergraduate degree, she started creating jewelry and then eventually added leather goods to the lineup. Heist Studio’s goods only use hides from free-range animals, ethical bison leather from Colorado. Tiffany has also spent time as a lawyer, yet the creative call would not leave. Based in Florida, this maker sells leather goods, jewelry, and other accessories.
Check out this interview with Tiffany Zadi.
What inspires you to keep making things?
"There are a lot of different things that inspire me to keep going: seeing someone proudly wearing one of my pieces, hearing from a happy customer, helping someone find the perfect gift. But what I think inspires me the most is the process itself. When I’m working in my studio and get into that flow, it really truly is my happy place.
It’s almost like meditation in a weird way. I’m not always inspired, but when that inspiration hits I’m always ready and willing to dive in again."
What one piece of advice would you give to other makers?
"Keep going! Being a small business owner, particularly someone who creates the product themselves, is really, really hard. There’s always going to be a million reasons to quit, especially that little voice in your head that’s calling you a fraud and telling you to give up. But don’t listen!
If you believe in your product and aren’t afraid to put in the work, eventually something will shift. Keep reevaluating what you’re making, listen to feedback, keep tweaking the product and just keep going!"
Creating things by hand is meditative and as Tiffany shares, she feels most at-home and happiest when she’s creating things. Focusing solely on the task, the project, the craft at-hand can free the mind from any worries, stress, or other thoughts. I agree, making is therapeutic.
This maker is very dedicated to her craft and this dedication and perseverance shines through. As she advises, stick to it, put in the work, and know that good things come in time.
"Keep reevaluating what you’re making, listen to feedback, keep tweaking the product and just keep going!" — Tiffany Zadi
Check out Heist Studio website and Instagram profile.
Thank you all for reading this article, now get out there and make things!
