Pat's Journey
“Use my talents to inspire and encourage others
to find God’s purpose for our life’s journey”
Pat Grady
Fiber Artist & CEO
(Chief Embellishing & Encouraging Officer)
Pat cutting up a garment in a workshop
Pat bundling a sweater with plants for natural dyeing
In 2006, I started Embellishing Bliss! part-time. My initial focus was designing Memory Keepsakes for people who wanted something to honor the memory of a loved one. T-shirts, jeans, neckties, dresses, and sweaters were transformed into tote bags, hats, quilts, pillows and other treasures.
I also made a New Year’s Resolution in 2006 to refrain from buying new clothes (except footwear & underwear) for the year. I have renewed that resolution every year since then. Instead of buying new, I find wonderful treasures at thrift stores, garage sales and consignment shops. I use what others discard to create Wearable Art for myself and others. It has become my signature style and part of the brand for Embellishing Bliss!
By 2007 Embellishing Bliss! was my full time career. I began to expand my product line and did a few shows where I sold unique one-of-a-kind accessories and continued designing Memory Keepsakes to honor people’s memories.
2009 brought many changes, including designing a line of accessories that was sold to the wholesale market. Wearable Art including hats, scarves, mittens and handbags were sold to over 30 stores in 6 Midwestern states. Blissful Experiences were also held in my studio to teach people how to make mittens, handbags, or just to have fun and expand their creativity.
In 2011 I was introduced the practice of using a Visual Journal. It is a place you can feel free to explore, practice, play and dream without judgment. This practice has been life changing for me. I want to share what I have learned with others so they have the opportunity to create their own personal guide or road map for their life’s journey.
It is difficult to make a living as an artist, so in 2012 I took a part-time job at my church as an administrative assistant. I really enjoy my time there and it has helped me to grow in my faith journey. I continue to spend Mondays and Fridays in my studio designing and creating. It is definitely my happy place!
From 2012 -2023 I have continued to do one or two art shows a year where I sell my unique accessories and also create Memory Keepsakes for friends and people who learned about me through word of mouth.
As I am beginning my 18th year in business, I feel like it is time to hit the “restart button” with Embellishing Bliss! I want to use my talents to help others. Whether that means transforming a sweater or shirt into a Memory Keepsake or guiding them in a new direction for their life, I want to provide inspiration and encouragement to those people who cross my path. If you or anyone you know would like me to create something unique to celebrate a loved one, I would be honored to work with you to make the perfect keepsake.
From what once was cast-away – beauty emerges. “Blisstify” your life- find magic in the possibilities