Nisha Blackwell runs Knotzland Bespoke Bowtie Studio in Wilkinsburg, PA, transitioning from nursing to a thriving bow tie business that supports local women and emphasizes sustainability.
Nisha Blackwell operates Knotzland Bespoke Bowtie Studio from her shop located in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, a venture she began after a unique journey into entrepreneurship. The studio, which specializes in handcrafted bow ties, sees customers like the woman who recently visited inquiring about an electric blue bow tie intended as a gift for a friend in Washington, D.C. Despite having limited store hours—noon to 5 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays, with appointments only on Thursdays and Saturdays—Blackwell is known for accommodating bow tie emergencies.
Blackwell’s foray into sewing began in 2014 when a simple hair bow she made as a gift for a friend’s daughter garnered unexpected attention and requests from party attendees. This initial success prompted her to shift to bow ties, which quickly became her most sought-after product. After years of growth and success within the business, Blackwell made the significant decision to leave nursing school to pursue her passion full-time, a move that surprised her family.
Reflecting on her childhood experiences, Blackwell recognized socioeconomic divides in her neighborhood and initially named her business “Have Notz.” However, in a pivotal moment prompted by a mentor, she rebranded to “Knotzland,” a name that symbolizes both her journey and her aspiration to be a beacon for others from similar backgrounds.
Operating out of a 950-square-foot showroom, Knotzland produces over 1,000 bow ties annually, with prices ranging from $65 to $115. While a vocal supporter of localism, Blackwell has built a customer base that extends across the United States, with notable sales in Washington, D.C., and California. Many of her customers are not only individuals looking for unique accessories but also collectors who have followed her brand for years.
Blackwell emphasizes the importance of community in her business model, employing a network of local women—including students and mothers—who assist with production. This collaborative approach not only allows for flexibility in the workforce but also supports women in her neighborhood with income-producing opportunities. Blackwell is deeply involved in the production process herself, preferring to sew alongside her team rather than just overseeing operations.
A commitment to sustainability is central to her brand’s ethos. Knotzland sources materials from various outlets, including leftover fabrics from The Minnesota Opera, while each bow tie comes with a tag thanking customers for supporting its “environmental and social mission.” Blackwell’s philosophy accommodates a trifecta of responsibility—people, planet, and profit—asserting that as consumption patterns evolve, her business aligns with a growing interest in sustainably made products.
Looking ahead, Blackwell is in discussions with Pittsburgh International Airport to potentially open a shop in the new terminal, aiming to introduce travelers to her brand. She believes that Knotzland is well-positioned to flourish in an era that increasingly values American-made goods.
As she prepares for her first major exhibition outside Pittsburgh in Baltimore, Blackwell acknowledges her nerves but remains optimistic, stating, “Let’s just do it and learn.”
Source: Noah Wire Services
