Design Expert: Rachel Low
I have been interested in design, art and making things for as long as I can remember. I have fond memories of being just about ten years old and dreaming up my own fashion and accessory line that I drew with colorful markers in a big notebook. Then when I got older, I launched a jewelry line based on a collection of vintage broaches that my grandma gave me.
So it was natural that my love for fashion and beauty became part of my career working for some of the most iconic creative people in the world, including Ralph Lauren and Bobbi Brown. Even during the years I worked for these influential fashion and beauty companies, I always made sure to find ways that I could express my own creativity. When I traveled abroad, I made sure to shop all of the amazing flea markets, and I spent hours flipping through fashion and beauty magazines in every language. Of course, you could also find me knitting up a scarf, reworking a vintage skirt or making a gemstone necklace.
I feel so lucky that, today, I have the opportunity to share my passion for design and making things through my sewing and modern crafting boutique and studio: Pins & Needles in NYC. One of the things I love most about my job is that I have so many moms, especially new moms, coming in looking to be inspired to make things for their nursery and or baby. I’m always coming up with new DIYs that I can share with them, and I always make sure that they are quick and easy to do because let’s face it, as a new mom who has time?
So much of my personal style is inspired by what goes on inside the doors of Pins & Needles—from the various fabric patterns I carry to the unique pieces my students create and the fun DIYs I come up with. The things I love most are pretty, classic and feminine. You will always find me wearing something that sparkles, whether that is my favorite rhinestone ballet flats or a fabulous glitter headband.
- Rachel
Pins and Needles
Rachel Loves…
1. I love all modern crafting materials, but one of my favorites is Liberty Fabric. Not only can you make the most adorable little girl’s dress with it, this material can also be used to make a fabulous throw pillow, flower broach or even a set of chic dinner napkins. 2. As a Craft Stylist, it is essential to keep a good pair of scissors handy, and my favorite scissors are these Gingher Dressmaker Shears. They are a crafter’s best investment! 3. I read all kinds of design, art, home and craft magazines, but Mollie Makes is my go-to for chic, simple and fun DIYs. 4. Shoes are the perfect finishing touch to any outfit; I love pretty and flirty ballet flats like these button-covered flats from Pretty Ballerina. 5. Things that sparkle make me smile, so you will often find me wearing these sparkle headbands from Bando. 6. With a bustling modern sewing and crafting shop to run, students to teach and DIYs to create, I always find myself needing a quick sugar fix in the afternoon, so I make sure to keep a full stash of red licorice around. These australian licorice nibs that I order from Dylan’s Candy are my favorite. 7. I keep a stock of the Archipelago Candles in Mango Tangerine on hand at the shop and at home. I love the smell of these candles and find people love entering a space that has a pleasant smell—it is about making your environment special. 8. I am an avid collector of fun and playful party and packaging supplies—from polka dot straws to colorful cake stands and party favors.
