Hilary Crowell is the owner of The Cultivated Thread, a small batch weaving company based in Wiscasset that produces high-quality, handwoven textiles. After more than a decade of farming, she transitioned her weaving hobby into a full-time business in 2020, drawn by the chance to work independently and apply her practical skills in a new way.
When she began planning a brick-and-mortar expansion to include a teaching studio and showroom, Crowell reached out to Maine SBDC for guidance. The project was years in the making, but after finally receiving grant funding to make physical upgrades, she wanted expert support to navigate the complexities of opening a public-facing location.
Business Advisor Jenn Dobransky was recommended to her through the Lincoln County Regional Planning Commission. Crowell credits their work together as both practical and encouraging. “She’s been an incredible sounding board, connected me to resources, and helped me secure funding for the purchase of my new teaching looms,” Crowell said.
Beyond advising sessions, Crowell engaged with SBDC partner resources, including the SBA and Women’s Business Center. With this expanded network, she’s ready to welcome visitors into her new showroom and production studio, with an open house scheduled on Maine Craft Weekend, Saturday 10/4. The space will operate during the summer and holiday seasons, with classes held in the off-season. She will also continue to sell online and at in-person craft shows.
Crowell’s long-term vision is grounded in beauty and practicality. Inspired by early schooling that emphasized handwork, she’s committed to making textiles that are both functional and artful. “There’s no playbook for how to run a small business,” she said. “Starting and operating a small business is exciting and empowering. It’s also scary. Having the support of an advisor to help navigate the logistics and technicalities can really help it feel less isolating and daunting. There’s no need to do it alone.”