Hi everyone meet @sundowntextiles. Amanda is a down to earth lady who specializes in hand crafted & naturally died pieces of original artwork. She has a cute pup named Ralph and a Volkswagen Bug named Loretta. Follow along this week to get to know her better.
What have you changed your mind about in the last few years? Why?
I’ve changed my mind that changing your mind is a bad thing! I change my mind all the time. I think it’s necessary to be open to new information and to adjust my views accordingly. Folks might call it being flaky, or flip flopping, but I think being comfortable admitting when I’m wrong and changing my mind is one of my greatest strengths!
What do you believe is true, even though you can’t prove it?
That by putting a lot of thought & energy into whatever it is we want, we are able to manifest our future.
What have you learned from dyeing fabrics?
Natural dyeing has taught me to be fearless when it comes to creating. I tend to be a rule follower when I start something new, but I always enjoy the process and the outcome so much more when I try out my weird ideas! Luckily I can always start over!
What do you want the world to know about you?
My dream is to have a farm and be totally self-sufficient and waste-free!
When do you know if it is the right time to change things up and why?
I rely completely on gut feelings. I can’t describe how it feels, but I get the same sense of calm when I’m ready to make big changes. It makes me completely sure of my decision, and gives me all the confidence needed to follow through.
What experiences in life shaped you the most?
Oooof so many!!
Living in a van for 3 months in Australia with my best friend Kelsey.
Being very poor while living in San Francisco, but feeling the most alive and free I’ve ever felt.
Throwing the best party for all our friends and family when Adam and I tied the knot!
Living in our van while traveling across the country to try life on the East Coast, then spending two years in New Jersey.
The two years I spent training to be a yoga instructor, and the people I’ve taught along the way.
What are things that bring you joy in the world?
My husband & dog Ralph, my family, making things, skateboarding & helping others find their version of happiness.
How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy?
Walks with Ralphie, weaving, journaling, yoga, and podcasts.
Mantra of the moment?
Everything is perfect.
Favorite quote?
“Be a human being, not a human doing” - Mom
What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful?
Resourcefulness & simple mechanics! I’ve saved myself a ton of money by being resourceful (I like to think I’m a lady McGyver), and by learning how to care for my vehicles.
What’s the worst thing you’ve eaten out of politeness?
A calzone that was crunchy due to the unwashed spinach!
What’s about to get much better?
My textile inventory! I’m stocking up so I can start selling online!
What always cheers you up when you think about it?
My ‘68 VW Beetle Loretta.
Do you like things to be carefully planned or do you prefer to just go with the flow?
Both! Carefully planned is great when you just want to relax and let the plan take the wheel, but all the adventure happens when you just go for it! I like to have a little of both in my life most of the time.
What is the worst advice you see or hear being dispensed in your world?
This isn’t the worst advice for everyone, but it does come to mind. I don’t agree that kids should go to college right after high school. I think it’s healthy to take some time and figure yourself out before committing to a career path. For some, it’s definitely the best move, but I’ve heard countless friends say they don’t even use their degree, and are still paying for it.
How has a failure, or apparent failure, set you up for later success?
All of my failures have shaped who I am today. I honestly have a hard time calling them “failures”, because that’s when the biggest realizations happen.
