Today we’d like to introduce you to Eva Atkinson.
Eva, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
It began with time spent with my grandmother, who taught me sewing, knitting, and an appreciation for working with textiles. When I was a teenager, she encouraged me to revisit those skills, believing that knowing how to create something with your hands was both valuable and empowering. Many years later, that advice came full circle as I discovered felting and became passionate about natural fibers, sustainability, and supporting local farmers and makers. Today, my work combines those values with my love of nature, life long learning, and creating pieces that encourage curiosity,
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I wouldn’t say it’s been completely smooth as I’ve had to be flexible and adapt at times over the years. I started with crocheting more than ten years ago, and as I discovered new interests and opportunities, I found myself learning new skills and shifting directions. More than once, it felt like I was rebuilding or reinventing parts of my business from the ground up. While that wasn’t always easy, each transition taught me something new and helped me create a business that better reflects my values, interests, and skills. Being willing to adapt has been one of the most important lessons along the way.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a fiber artist who specializes in working with natural animal and plant fibers. My work includes needle felting and wet felting to create pieces inspired by nature. I’ve also become known for some of the more quirky and unexpected items I’ve created over the years. My bird nesting spheres are what have gained the most attention.
What sets my bird spheres apart is the process behind them. I’ve been making them for more than ten years, and I source much of my wool from local farms, typically within a 50-mile radius. I take the wool directly from the shorn sheep and process it myself—cleaning, dyeing, carding or combing it, and then utilizing it in my work. The unique colors of the fibers and the way I layer them inside the spheres give them an artistic, whimsical look.
What I’m most proud of is that, with the exception of the grapevine balls themselves, every part of the process passes through my hands. From the raw wool from a local farm to the finished piece, I have a hand in every step. I think there’s power in knowing where my materials come from, supporting local farms and businesses, and keeping as much of the process close to home as I can.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory is playing in the creek and woods by my childhood home. It always felt familiar, yet new in a way, as there is usually something waiting to be discovered.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/rokatree
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/rokatree
- Other: https://rokatree.etsy.com
