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OML BRAND CAMP
An autumn event for makers to create bold, brilliant brands.
Saturday, October 4
9-6PM
OML HQ x Le Loft
Chicago, Illinois
Welcome to Brand Camp
where makers meet momentum
We created Brand Camp with the big goal to intimately support and make with fiber business owners and designers without the overwhelm.
Running a business in the fiber industry is unique. But what do we want and need? We think specific subject matter expertise, strong customer relationship, storytelling knowledge, and confidence and comprehension to build an engaging and resourceful brand.
Our Maker Life has been dedicated to uplifting and uniting fiber-based business owners for more than a decade. At our new Brand Camp event, we’re leveling up through an immersive single day micro-meet to host and help fiber professionals make sure that our next move is our best move.
Here’s also why we built it:
Because small business owners shouldn’t have to pay thousands for access to industry knowledge.
Because most creative founders are building their brands on the side, hoping to turn passion into profit.
Because real growth comes from community, collaboration, and shared experience—not isolation.
Because the fiber industry deserves more accessible, inclusive spaces to learn and thrive.
Because we’ve been through the struggles ourselves—and we want your path to be easier, clearer, and more joyful.
Jewell Washington and Hannah Thiessen Howard are coming together with fellow makers, designers, and local yarn store owners to bring years of business and fiber project expertise for an amazing Autumn weekend event. Thanks to our amazing sponsors, we’ve made Brand Camp affordable and approachable —so you can show up, get inspired, and walk away with real tools to grow your brand.
Our Maker Life is by makers, for makers. And Brand Camp is just our next step in building something beautiful—together.
Fall For OML
Chicago in Autumn? Yes please! It’s a great place to meet up in the heart of the Midwest—where crisp fall air, golden foliage, and iconic city views make a creative pulse that’s all its own. Chicago is full of inspiration, culture, and charm—and for brand camp, it’s the perfect backdrop (and home to our OML founder) for makers to connect, recharge, and dream big.
From lakeside walks to vibrant neighborhoods, cozy cafés to skyline views, you’ll experience the magic of the city and the creative spark that makes Our Maker Life so special.
OML at Le Loft
Welcome to your OML Saturday HQ! Le Loft is a cozy, mixed-use space that’s also about where creation meets celebration. Nestled in Chicago near Logan Square and Wicker Park, it’s a converted factory rich with history and all about makers.
Brand Camp will be at Le Loft’s east and west sides for us to workshop, dine, and make from 9-6pm in this gorgeous space.
OML KEYNOTE
We’re thrilled to immerse in Brand Camp with our epic maker keynote: Amy Small of Knit Collage!
Amy’s journey began in the fast fashion world, designing for brands like Anthropologie and Free People. But 15 years ago, she followed her heart and made a bold pivot—channeling her creative energy into launching Knit Collage, a brand that celebrates handmade, color, and self-expression.
Today, her yarns are known for their playful textures, handspun artistry, and joyful spirit. Amy’s keynote will set the tone for the entire day, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at her entrepreneurial path and sparking inspiration for our own creative journey.
Take a peek at her world at Knit Collage ✨
Two Sessions. One Epic Day.
Rise & Shine
In the first session of the day, we’ll dig into the biggest challenges and hurdles standing in the way of our success.
With Jewell and Hannah’s guidance, you’ll dive into all the elements that build out a business: Branding, Photography, Marketing, Product, Financial and more.
You’ll identify where you excel, where you need help, and evaluate all the numbers and data you’ve already collected.
Business Glow Up
Are you ready for your glow up?
Taking the data we’ve gathered in our first session, we’ll regroup and tackle the next phase: overcoming challenges and realizing your dreams.
Identify your skill set and get your business fully evaluated by industry experts before building a comprehensive plan to keep moving forward and achieving your dreams.