This month, my guest Maryam Arbaboon, the founder of Marroomy Designs, is known for her original Persian-themed designs and mythological creatures. She sells her designs as Marroomy Designs on Etsy. Additionally, be sure to follow Maryam on Instagram for all the updates and behind the scene.
How did you first start cross-stitch designing?
M: "I find fiber art to be a great lesson in the time and culture of the designer and
stitcher. Although I enjoyed stitching available patterns, I found the space to be very
Eurocentric. This disconnect led me to start designing my pattern inspired by
Persian fiber art, architecture, and mythology".
Tell me more about Marroomy Designs. What inspired you to start your brand?
M: "It was a natural progression of my design journey".
How did you choose your business name?
M: "Marroomy is my childhood nickname. My grandfather used to call me by that name.
I wanted to honor him and highlight how personal my brand is".
What is the secret to your design process, and what do you enjoy most about it?
M: "I tend to follow the spark. When an idea pops into my head, I feel the need to sit and
play with it. I do not sketch and usually go directly to my designing software and
start in pixel. I will ride that wave of inspiration as far as I can. Most of my designs
get to their final stage in a couple of sessions. I come back to the design, share the
mock with a close circle of friends, and ask about their opinions. I tend to have a
quick turnaround and not sit with my design for so long. When I finish the design, it
will be published shortly after. Designing is a passion of mine, and sharing it with
others brings me so much joy".
How would you describe your design style and which of your designs best showcases your style?
M: "My designs are inspired by Persian motifs and mythology. I am especially inspired by
Persian rugs. I love all of my designs, but I think my Vagireh sampler collection,
including Afshan, Bivas, and Turanj, highlights my style very well. I love introducing
the stitching community to my culture and history through the art of cross-stitching".
What’s your favorite design and why? What are you most proud of?
M: "My favorite design is Azaad, the lost unicorn. It is a very personal design, and I love
how it came out".
What do you hope people get from your designs?
M: "To look beyond the “traditional' designs and try something different, something
new. There are fiber art traditions all around the world with their unique techniques,
styles, and stories waiting for us to enjoy them".
What is the biggest lesson you have learned from turning your passion for cross-stitch into a business?
M: "It is one of the most difficult things and most rewarding things one can do".
What fun things can we expect from you in the future?
M: "More odd mythical creatures and samplers to come".
Etsy shop: https://marroomydesigns.etsy.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marroomydesigns/