"Polka Dot Threads spark joy, nostalgia, and sass with pop
culture inspired handcrafted items for all!"
Jessica Badarak is the owner of Polka Dot Threads. Her love of sewing started early on, back all the way to her high school years (over twenty years ago!). Her business first started as a side project, making custom purses for her classmates. But in 2010, after making custom hair fascinators for her bridesmaids Polka Dot Threads finally came to life. She started doing orders for friends and family, which encouraged her to expand her shop, including items such as zippered pouches and tote bags, children's bow ties, retro top knot headbands, face masks, infinity scarves, fabric pennant banners, and mitten pillows for the home.
Her latest creations are car trash bags and hand sanitizer pouches! Perfect necessities for the time we are in. Her handmade products are inspired by all things pop culture, nostalgic TV shows, retro 50s style: photos, antiques, music, movies, and of course her two daughters inspire fun and spunky designs and ideas every day!
Why did you choose to partner with Yellow Door to sell your artwork?
"I love that the shop is in a hip town and carries all Michigan artists. I wanted to sell my items somewhere that I have my own space."
How long have you been creating your artwork?
"I would say over 20 years total, but 10 years as a business."
Do you have any notable awards or accomplishments?
"Not yet! But I'd love to sell at larger well-known events someday."
What makes your artwork unique or distinctive?
"The fabric I choose for my items tend to have bright colors, pop culture references,
and are full of sass!"
What do you most love about the creative process?
"I love picking out the perfect fabric for my project and turning it into a finished product!"
What do you enjoy doing besides making art?
"Spending time with my family and friends, going to the movies & taking camping trips!'
Who are some of your favorite artists?
Jen Janhevich with The Green Lily Crafts (Instagram: @thegreenlilycrafts)
Diane Gracey with Vintije (Etsy: VintijeArt)
Charities you support?
Susan G Komen - www.Komen.org
St. Jude - www.StJude.org
Your favorite places to frequent around Detroit?
Vinsetta Garage in Berkley and the Rust Belt Market in Ferndale
What do you like to listen to?
The Black Keys, Lorde, Mumford and Sons, Motown hits, Oldies, Doo-Wop music, and anything fast to dance to!
You can see more of Jessica and her artwork on her Etsy site HERE and follow her on Facebook and Instagram to see all her newest designs.