For Arlene of Not Just Knotz Crafts, creativity has always been close to her heart. Since she was a child, she found joy in working with beads, yarn, and ribbon, turning small, simple materials into something meaningful. Crafting has always been her happy place.
In 2021, during the quiet of the pandemic, Arlene found her way back to that creative spark. What started as a personal outlet soon grew into her Etsy shop, Not Just Knotz Crafts, where she shares her handmade pieces with others.
Her inspiration comes from all around her, whether it is a walk through a craft store, a new idea online, or materials that spark her curiosity. Influenced by time spent with family in Hawaii, her work carries a sense of care, joy, and aloha. From ribbon leis to floral accessories, each piece reflects her love for creating something thoughtful and unique.
About Not Just Knotz Crafts
Do you have any favorite creations that you want to share with us?
I make graduation ribbon leis and senior night leis to honor seniors in their sports, creative arts, or music programs. For an extra special touch, I can add satin ribbon flowers like plumerias or cherry blossoms to the lei to make it really stand out! The flowers can also be used separately as charms to decorate a bag or purse.
Not Just Knotz Crafts with Paper Mart
As you know, we’re celebrating 100+ years as a family-owned business, and we couldn’t have done it without your support throughout the years. What are your thoughts on the importance of shopping family-owned and local?
Whenever I can, I choose to shop local. Supporting mom-and-pop businesses helps maintain the character, diversity, and personality of a community. Beyond that, the personal attention, expertise, and genuine relationships you build with local shop owners make the experience far more meaningful than shopping at big chains.
How did you hear about Paper Mart, how long have you been a customer with us, and what keeps you coming back?
A friend referred me to this shop over four years ago, and I’ve been coming back ever since. I really appreciate the quality of the products and the high level of customer service. Paper Mart also offers a great variety of materials, including ribbon, rattail cord, raffia, and crepe paper, which makes it easy to find exactly what I need for different projects.
What are your favorite Paper Mart products and why do you love them?
Satin ribbon, boxes, and cardboard envelopes.
I really appreciate the quality of the products and the high level of customer service.
– Arlene of Not Just Knotz Crafts
Shop Arlene’s Favorites
Discover More Essentials:
- Tuck Top Mailer Boxes
- Kraft Padded Corrugated Paper Mailers
- Tan Premium Colored Tissue Paper
- Open Weave Metallic Striped Ribbon
- Raffia Ribbon
- Crepe Paper
Paper Mart Fosters Your Creativity
Getting the details right can really elevate what you create, and that includes the materials and packaging you choose along the way. We’re proud to be a small part of makers’ journeys, helping bring ideas like Arlene’s to life through quality supplies and dependable basics.
Photos featured in this spotlight come from Arlene of Not Just Knotz Crafts unless noted otherwise. You can explore more of her handmade pieces by visiting her Etsy shop and follow her on instagram @notjustknotzcrafts.
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