“Evolve or die,” right? Well, we don’t need to bethat dramatic, but it’s true—a business needs to keep evolving. After 9 years of running Bessie Pearl, some things have remained steady, while others have changed completely.
When I launched Bessie Pearl, I was a first-time mom, at home with a baby who cried A LOT. I quickly realized that the full-time stay-at-home mom life wasn’t for me, and I needed something more. That’s when Bessie Pearl was born! I started out making ½" double-fold bias tape (still one of our best-selling products today!). My product photos weren’t great, I didn’t know the best fabrics to use yet, and I was just figuring out Etsy. But it was a start!
Improving Product Photography
One of the first big changes I made wasupgrading my product photos. Who knew that a few props and better lighting could make such a difference? Clear, beautiful images not only help your products stand out but also build trust with potential buyers.
The before
The after
Pivoting to Meet Customer Demand
Another major lesson? Listen to your customers. I noticed that many of my bias tape buyers were using it to make hand-tied baby bows. After multiple requests, I introduced bow strips—pre-made tubes finished on all sides so customers could easily tie them into bows. Adorable, right? But they were SO labor-intensive! After a while, I had to move on.
Anyone remember these? They are deceptively simple looking, haha!
Branching Into Bias Quilt Binding
One of my biggest evolutions came when I expanded into quilt binding. This has now become my best-selling product! Bias quilt binding has connected me to so many wonderful quilters and opened the door to some amazing friendships and collaborations. The quilting community is just the best!
Dabbling in Fabric Sales (And Learning When to Pivot)
For a time, I even tried selling fabric yardage alongside my quilt binding. It was fun for about five minutes—until managing inventory became overwhelming. If you’re going to sell fabric, you really need to go all in. I realized I didn’t have the bandwidth for it, so I sold off my extra stock and refocused on what I do best: making high-quality quilt binding.
Stocking yardage was really just another excuse to play with pretty fabric all day.
Evolving the Brand
Bessie Pearl has evolved in other ways too. I built my own website in addition to selling on Etsy,rebranded the companyto Bessie Pearl Binding Co. (who was around when it was Bessie Pearl Textiles?), got a new logo, and even started selling onAmazon!
The Joy of Trying New Things
One of the things I love most about running a small business is trying new things.Not every idea has been a huge success, but each one has taught me valuable lessons that have helped me grow. And that’s what keeps Bessie Pearl moving forward.
