I’m a Chinese Muslim convert with a lifelong passion for creating, crafting, and working with my hands. This passion naturally led me to pursue a degree in Visual Arts, where I honed my skills and deepened my understanding of creative expression. Yet, even after graduating, I found myself constantly seeking new ways to immerse myself in creative work, drawn to the satisfaction of shaping ideas into tangible, meaningful forms.

As a Muslim, my faith has profoundly shaped my approach to art and creativity. The name of my shop, SajiDeen, meaning “the one who prostrates” in Arabic, reflects the spirit of gratitude and humility that guides me. I see my work as a way to honor the beauty of creation, a reminder that everything around us is a masterpiece in its own right. From the delicate patterns of a leaf to the vast expanse of the sky, I am endlessly inspired by the intricate details and vibrant colors of the natural world.

Nature, for me, is the ultimate muse. The changing hues of the seasons, the textures of the earth, and the ever-shifting skies fill me with ideas and a sense of wonder. Every stitch I make, every piece I design, is an attempt to capture and share that beauty. Whether it’s the fiery tones of autumn leaves or the soft pastels of spring blooms, I aim to reflect the richness of nature in my creations.

When did you start creating? Was there a specific moment or inspiration that led you to it?

My journey as a maker began in childhood, where I discovered a deep passion for creating with my hands. From sewing and knitting to jewelry-making and cross-stitching, I found joy in exploring a variety of crafts, driven by a love for transforming abstract ideas into tangible, beautiful creations. Over time, my focus turned to crochet, a medium that allows me to weave stories and emotions into every piece!

What I adore most about yarn is its unparalleled versatility. With its myriad colors, weights, and textures, yarn becomes my artistic palette, allowing me to sculpt and mold it into all manner of shapes and forms, the possibilities are as endless as the threads themselves.

As someone who values sustainability and stewardship, I’m also committed to creating in a way that honors the Earth. I source materials thoughtfully, often repurposing and upcycling to reduce waste. One of my favorite projects involves transforming discarded plastic bags into durable plastic yarn, which I use to make Plashies—adorable plushies that are as meaningful as they are whimsical. These creations embody my belief in the power of transformation, turning waste into something cherished.

What emotions, messages, or themes do you hope to convey through your work?

In my work, I aim to convey a sense of gratitude, harmony, and transformation. Each piece I create is a celebration of the beauty found in nature and a reminder of our connection to it. Through the intricate patterns and thoughtful designs, I hope to evoke a feeling of peace and wonder, inviting others to see the extraordinary in the everyday.

At the heart of my creations is the theme of renewal. By upcycling materials and transforming what might otherwise be discarded, I aim to share a message of hope—that even the smallest efforts can contribute to positive change. My work reflects the belief that creativity can inspire us to live more sustainably and mindfully, embracing the responsibility of caring for our world.

Ultimately, I want my work to bring joy, inspire reflection, and remind others of the beauty and potential in everything, even in what might seem ordinary or forgotten.

What materials, tools, or techniques do you use, and why did you choose them? 

I primarily work with yarn, sourcing it thoughtfully and sustainably from second-hand marketplaces. This allows me to give unused materials a second life while staying committed to reducing waste. Fiber arts have always captivated me, especially crochet, which is my main medium. However, I also enjoy exploring other techniques, like weaving, braiding, and intricate thread work, constantly experimenting to see how I can upcycle or repurpose what I come across. I believe there’s beauty and potential in every material, and I strive to use every bit I have, leaving nothing to waste.

The most unique and meaningful process in my work is my Eco-Craft plastic bag upcycling. It’s a labor-intensive but rewarding practice where I transform discarded plastic bags into something functional and beautiful. It starts with carefully cleaning, folding, and cutting the bags into strips, which are then looped together to create “plarn” (plastic yarn). Once the plarn is ready, I use crochet to shape it into unique items, like my Plashies—adorable plushies that carry a powerful message about sustainability.

This process is deeply symbolic to me, as it embodies transformation and renewal. It takes something often considered disposable and turns it into a lasting piece of art. It’s also my way of contributing to a greener planet, showing that even materials bound for the landfill can be given a new purpose!

What was the biggest challenge you faced in your creative journey, and how did you overcome it?

The biggest challenge I’ve faced in my creative journey has been spreading the word and gaining exposure. Building a brand and connecting with the right audience can be daunting, especially in a world where countless makers are vying for attention. At times, it’s discouraging when sales are slow or when my work doesn’t immediately reach the people I hope to inspire.

However, I’ve learned the value of persistence. I’ve made it a point to show up at local markets regularly, even when the sales don’t always meet my expectations. To me, being present is about more than transactions—it’s about sharing my story and allowing people to see the heart and effort behind my work. The genuine appreciation and encouragement I receive from those who take the time to stop and admire my creations mean so much more than just making a sale.

This journey has taught me to redefine success. It’s not just about numbers but about making a meaningful impact. I hope to inspire other crafters to embrace sustainable practices, showing that creativity and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. Every market, every conversation, and every piece I create is a step toward spreading this message and crafting for a greener, more mindful future.

Do you remember your first sale? How did it feel?

I absolutely remember my first sale—it’s a memory that still brings me so much joy! At the time, I was working part-time and crafting during my lunch breaks. One day, I was showing a coworker the mushroom Plashie I was working on, and to my surprise, she loved it so much that she purchased one right then and there! She even encouraged me to make more, which inspired me to create a piggy Plashie for her daughter.

The experience was incredible—it felt so rewarding to know that someone not only appreciated my work but also valued the concept of upcycled crafts. It gave me the confidence to keep creating and pursuing this passion.

What made it even more special is the connection we built through that moment. Even after I left that job, she stayed in touch, occasionally visiting me at markets to see my latest creations. She even collects and brings me plastic bags to use in my work, continuing to support my commitment to sustainability. That first sale wasn’t just a transaction; it was the start of a journey fueled by creativity, connection, and shared values.

Has a customer ever shared a special story or reason for purchasing your work?

Yes, I’ve had a few customers who were science teachers, and their stories truly touched me. They purchased my plastic crafts, like my Plashies, to use as teaching tools in their classrooms. Their goal was to educate their students about the importance of upcycling and the impact of plastic waste on the environment.

Knowing that my work could play a small role in inspiring the next generation to think critically about sustainability was incredibly meaningful. It’s an honor to see my crafts used not only as art but as a way to spark curiosity and learning in young minds. Moments like these remind me why I’m so passionate about what I do—they reinforce the idea that creativity can be a powerful tool for change and education.

Is there a particular piece or product that customers seem to love the most? What makes it special?

 The flower basket is definitely one of the most popular pieces among my creations, and I can understand why! It’s a beautiful fusion of macrame and my custom yarns, creating a handbag that’s both durable and sustainable. Macrame, being 100% cotton, adds to the peace of mind knowing that it’s fully biodegradable at the end of its life, which is always a priority in my work.

What makes this piece special is its unique design, which captures the essence of nature in a way that’s both functional and artistic. The way the yarns and knots flow together, transforming what could be seen as clutter into a vibrant, flowery shape, is almost like a living painting you can carry with you. The intricate details and harmonious design allow it to stand out as a one-of-a-kind item, and customers seem to appreciate the balance between artistry and sustainability that it represents.

It’s wonderful to know that something I’ve poured so much heart into has resonated with others, and I love seeing how the flower basket adds a touch of nature and beauty to their lives!

What are your future plans? What do you hope to achieve through your creative business?

 My future plans involve continuing to inspire crafters to embrace sustainable crafting practices. I want to source even more second-hand yarn, giving these materials a second life by turning them into beautiful, one-of-a-kind creations. From custom yarn mixes to various crochet goods, I aim to show how discarded materials can become something meaningful and unique.

I also hope to support people who are decluttering or dealing with estate sales, often offering a new purpose for yarn collections passed down from loved ones. By repurposing these materials, I’m not only reducing waste but also honoring the stories and memories behind them. Ultimately, my goal is to help people see that every yarn, no matter its origin, has value and can be transformed into something beautiful.

Through my work, I hope to build a community of like-minded makers who value sustainability and creativity, creating a positive ripple effect that encourages others to make mindful choices in their crafting journeys.

Are you working on any exciting new projects or collections?

Yes, I’m currently working on documenting more of my creations into patterns, which has been an exciting project! I’m focusing especially on my custom yarn rolls, allowing crafters to purchase them and create their own unique pieces. It’s amazing to see how different people bring their own creativity to the table, transforming the yarn into something completely new.

This project feels especially rewarding because it gives others the tools to create, share their art, and connect with the sustainable crafting community I’m building. Seeing how each person interprets and brings their personal touch to a pattern is truly inspiring, and I can’t wait to share these patterns and custom yarn blends with the world!

Why did you choose to join ZART? How has our platform helped your creative business?

I chose to join ZART because I truly appreciate how the platform builds personal relationships with each seller and authenticates that every product is handmade. The fact that ZART filters out dropshippers and focuses on supporting artists and genuine creators.