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Shop Hartlepool Blog

Welcome to the Shop Hartlepool blog, a great place to find out more about the amazing businesses signed up to Shop Hartlepool.

We want to shout about Hartlepool’s success stories and introduce you to the new kids on the block. You’ll find behind the scenes articles about local businesses alongside regular updates and news from the Shop Hartlepool team. 

We are always looking for great stories, so if you want to to be featured, or know a business who would, get in touch using the button below.   

A cut above the rest

Keeley Pearce is a paper cutting artist creating art and gifts inspired by nature. Keeley started paper cutting as a way to relax and reduce stress and now it is her business, KPPapercuts. With a range of kits for people to get creative at home, KPPapercuts also hosts workshops where you can learn more and craft with others. We had a chat with Keeley about running your own business and why she can’t choose between the seaside and the countryside! 

What made you start the business? 

I originally started paper cutting about six years ago as a way to relax and unwind from my day job. My business started almost by accident when people started asking if they could buy some of my work after I’d shared what I was making on my social media.

As time went on I wanted to share more of the relaxing and mindful benefits of paper cutting so I developed a range of DIY kits for people to try themselves at home and also started to teach workshops across the area.

I love seeing my customers relax during the workshop and the look of pride and joy they have when they’ve created a piece of art is the best feedback I could wish for!

What do you love most about running your own business?

I love the freedom to express myself that it gives me and also how it’s allowed me to connect with like minded people across the area (and country!). 

Do you think it is important for local businesses to support each other?

I’m an avid supporter of local businesses!! I love finding new places to go and places to shop. It’s such a joyful experience and lots of local business owners have now become friends too. 

How has the pandemic impacted your business?

Although I had to suspend my in person workshops during the pandemic, I was still able to help others relax and get creative with my DIY kits and commissioned designs. 

Like lots of others, I started to spend much more time growing my collection of house plants and this became an inspiration for a whole new range of paper cuts! 

Do you have any advice for anyone starting their own business?

I’d have to say, make sure your business is doing something you love! It can be hard juggling all the hats you need to wear as a small biz owner so you need to love what you do!

I’d also say you need to get to grips with your finances and understand profit and costs. It’ll help you grow a sustainable business. 

Finally I’d say don’t be afraid to ask for help! There’s lots of people out there who have experience you can learn from and I’ve found other small business owners are the most supportive community who are always willing to help each other!

Do you love the seaside to the countryside?

There’s no way I could choose between the two!! I love living by the coast but I also love spending time in the country too. Both are a huge inspiration in my art work and offer a great escape when I need a bit of time out.

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