“Ira Homespun” is a small business of handcrafted items run by two sisters, Vitsino and Nulevino, along with their mother who stitches the majority of their cloth items. The word “Ira” is the shortened form of their surname, “Iralu”. They started their business in the month of March 2020 when the first pandemic lockdown began. Their business mainly focuses on customized items that range from crochet dolls to embroidered tote bags, pouches masks, and other items. But not limiting themselves to just customized orders they also make pre-made items.

What inspired them to begin their business was during the first 2020 pandemic lockdown, they decided to try and learn a new skill; and picked up embroidery and crochet. Instagram small businesses were gaining popularity at that time, so as they both grew to love crafts, they decided to open one as well and give it a try. Adding to that they said their mom always encourages them to earn their own pocket money with whatever skills they have. 

Right now their plan is to continue making as long as they can, they are both still students who are preparing for different careers. Ira Homespun began as a means of sharing their crafts with others as a part-time business and it remains that way till date. They don’t really know what the future of their small business is but regardless of it, they are immensely thankful for all the support they have received so far.

Their parting words as we ended our interview was “We’re incredibly overwhelmed by the support we continue to receive in this small venture of ours. We hope to continue making items that carry meaning for our clients and are made with love and care. Thank you so much for giving us this valuable opportunity to share about our little space where we are able to do what we love.”