Stitching Joy: How Bonnie Burton Turned a Lifelong Passion into a Yarn-Filled Destination

In this heartwarming and color-filled episode, host April Kemp welcomes Bonnie Burton, the creative mind behind Colorful Stitches Fine Yarn in Williamsburg, Virginia. Bonnie shares how a lifelong love for knitting blossomed into a full-scale business that’s now a destination for artists, crafters, and curious visitors alike. From corporate America to handcrafted windows that spark community buzz, Bonnie’s journey is a masterclass in creativity, resilience, and following your joy.

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a fiber art enthusiast, or someone looking for that extra spark to start your own dream, this episode is for you.

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Key Discussion Points:

• [01:24] How a three-dimensional knit window display drew a community's attention
• [03:36] From a sickly childhood to a fiber-filled life—Bonnie’s earliest memories of knitting
• [04:56] Leaving corporate America to invest in something deeply personal and joyful
• [06:18] The mental health and educational benefits of knitting and crochet
• [08:36] Knitting as a learning tool—even used by a boys’ swim team for focus
• [10:16] Leveraging a retail career to build a unique customer experience
• [13:02] Self-talk and remembering past triumphs when facing new business challenges
• [14:14] The fear—and joy—of opening day and filling a brand new store
• [17:33] Building a teaching and event program, including one-on-one beginner classes
• [20:49] How Bonnie’s grandmother—a pioneering journalist—shaped her courage
• [22:45] Advice to young dreamers: believe in yourself, expect setbacks, and find your way
• [24:33] “Bonnie-isms,” lessons through humor, and the magic of making art accessible

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Notable Quotes:

• “You can do this. You were shot from birth like an arrow, and you will keep going.” – Bonnie, quoting her mother
• “There’s no knot in knit.” – Bonnie Burton
• “If you think of yourself as an artist, then you will be an artist.”
• “What you like to do usually can be successful for you.”

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Takeaways:

• Passion isn’t just a hobby—it can become a lifelong career if nurtured with intention and courage.
• Creating spaces where others can learn, laugh, and grow fosters true community.
• Art and craft are not lesser skills—they build focus, confidence, and emotional resilience.
• Sometimes your best teachers are not experts, but family members who model courage and creativity.
• Don’t wait for permission to call yourself an artist—start creating and owning it now.

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Connect with Guest:
• Website: https://colorfulstitches.com/
• Instagram: @colorfulstitchesfineyarn
• Email: [email protected]

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Connect with Us:
• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher
• Stay updated on new episodes: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/
• Email April: [email protected]

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