Merchant Spotlight • Printed Paws
One of the greatest joys of running this business has been getting to know and work with the myriad creative makers and crafters who reside in our region and make up our merchant base. These partnering merchants are the cornerstone of our business and the bedrock of our community. This is our quarterly blog spotlighting some of these talented folks and their inspiring, nourishing, creative endeavors.
A thoughtful Chloe at Deception Pass.
Chloe is a student at Western Washington University and the owner of Printed Paws, a Bellingham-based business offering handmade bandanas and other accessories for dogs and cats. When we went searching for local makers of pet products, Chloe’s store caught our eye and her unique story piqued our interest because she began her business at the ripe young age of 15. This makes her the youngest of all of our merchant partners. We hope her success can inspire other young creatives into similar entrepreneurial endeavors.
How long have you been in business, and how did you learn your craft?
My grandma taught me to sew when I was 15 because I wanted to make bandanas for my two dogs. I immediately fell in love with sewing and opened my Etsy shop soon after, in July of 2017. When I first started getting orders, I would go over to my grandma's house and we would work on them together. I still have the first bandana I ever made, and it's amazing to see how much I've improved over the years.
Chloe’s adorable pups make the ideal models for her products.
What is the guiding principle/mission of your business?
Our mission is to make high-quality pet products for your four-legged friends.
Describe your favorite or best-selling product.
Our best-selling product, as well as my favorite, is our fringed flannel bandana. The fringed flannel bandanas are very popular in the fall and winter. They are cute, cozy, and the most fun to make! I really enjoy the process of fringing them.
(Madrona Gifts carried a fringed Christmas bandana during the holidays that proved a big hit.)
In what ways, big or small, do you apply sustainability in your business practices?
I use every bit of fabric I have until I can't anymore. I make matching scrunchies out of any scrap fabric I have so pet parents can match their pups and kitties. (A crafter after our own heart!)
Where is your favorite place to spend time in this region? Why is it special to you?
Kitties look even more dignified in Printed Paws bandana.
My favorite place to spend time in Bellingham is Stimpson Family Nature Reserve. I've been hiking there with my family since I was a kid. I like it because it's so close by, but it really makes you feel like you're out somewhere deep in nature. It's a very chill, calming hike. I go there to relax and clear my head. Another reason I like it is because it's never super crowded and you only run into a few people while you're out there. The last time I was there a little squirrel came right up to me and sat by my foot.
Find Chloe’s bandanas in our Pampered Pup gift box.
Besides Madrona Gifts, where can customers find you, and what are some ways they can show their support?
You can find our shop at printedpawsco.com. And please follow us on Instagram @printedpawsco.
Gratitude to Chloe for her contributions to our business and for keeping our furry friends adorably adorned.