Moeki Yamada

I am a handweaver and natural dyer based in Barcelona.

My encounter with textiles dates back to 2014 when I moved to Spain from Japan, where I am originally from. At that time I was studying
linguistics and translation, but one day I came across a weaving workshop on a street in Barcelona and since then I have completely immersed myself into this world.

As for the technique I apply, I combine all my experiences; what I learned as a textile art student, what I see in my visits to traditional Japanese weavers and dyers, and what they teach me in classes with an esteemed Canadian professional weaver that I continue taking.

I am in the initial stage of developing my brand. Before starting the course, I already had products, a visual identity, and my website. During and after it, I was able to restructure and reinforce what I had. My products are Japanese-style bags and fabrics, especially Azuma Bags and Furoshiki (wrapping cloth). All my pieces are handwoven and made using natural fibers of high quality. Each color I use is the result of an elaborate natural dyeing process searching for harmony and respect for the environment.

My business objectives are:

I have two different types of goals, one as an entrepreneur and the other as a maker.

As an entrepreneur, I would like to make my business profitable in the coming year and make a living exclusively from it.
As a maker, I would like to develop unique products that reflect my personal experiences by merging the two cultures I live between, the Spanish and the Japanese.

My learnings from the Crafting Business Programme:

Before starting the course, I had no idea what it means to run my own business. I was a maker, but I wasn’t really an entrepreneur. I learned many lessons during the course, but if I have to name one, it would be the importance of being consistent with my decisions.

I used to waste so much time doubting what I had already decided, and this feeling of uncertainty led me into situations where I was easily scared and immediately changed my mind when things didn’t work out. Not being persistent made it more difficult for my project to move in any direction. It seems obvious from outside, but trying to manage everything related to my business on my own blinded me with fear, uncertainty, and doubt.

During the course, I met amazing tutors who made me realize what was happening and helped me focus my energy on what was important. Thanks to this, I was able to restructure my business by simplifying ideas to start over with a stronger foundation.

My 5 top tips that I have learnt on this journey:

1. Running a craft business is not just about making products.
2. All aspects of the business should be taken care of in the same way as when I create.
3. Looking for a differential value based on my personal experience is the key to being unique in the market.
4. Taking time to brainstorm and make decisions is essential for the business idea to grow.
5. Developing financial and marketing plans is essential to prevent, detect and solve problems.