Greenstitch Creations

Meet the Maker - Johanna Waite

What do you do?

I sell handmade children’s clothing and eco homewares, all made by me from my home in Durham.

My children’s clothing is bold, bright and colourful, whilst being practical, sustainable and responsible. The scraps from my clothing ranges are then used for my eco range to reduce waste and offer practical reusable solutions to disposable home and personal care supplies, including facial rounds, kitchen roll and gift bags.

How did you get started?

I’ve sewn since I was a child but really picked up the pace after my children were born as a way to get some quality me time, something we really make time for in our family. As I can sew a lot more than any can wear I decided to set up GreenStitch Creations as a creative outlet, it also keeps me busy when my work as a project manager is slow.

Is this your full time job?

I also work as a Project Manager focusing on not for profit and community projects, my latest project has been training women from under served groups into tech careers.

I love my work as a Project Manager, but it can be quite intense and sporadic, so my sewing provides a nice balance to it.

I also volunteer for the National Childbirth Trust, supporting local parents and running the Durham branch.

Where do you create?

I live just outside of Durham City with my husband and two children and sew from our spare room, which has been fully kitted out as my sewing room and home working office.

Tea or coffee?

Definitely tea, I don’t like coffee at all, but I don’t drink a lot of tea either I actually prefer cold drinks, such as fresh juice and smoothies

Where is your favourite local place?

I love the local countryside right on our doorstep, we’re lucky to be within walking distance of some lovely local beauty spots including Low Newton Nature Reserve and Finchale Abbey.