Threading together a passion for fibre arts and community connections, Veronica Bavis is making something creative in Cow Head, Newfoundland at Skivvers Fibre Studio and Wool Craft. 

Established in June 2021, Skivvers is more than just a shop; it's a vibrant hub where traditional wool crafts meet modern-day artistry. Started initially as a studio for Veronica to clean, process, and dye local and commercially-prepared wool and yarn; today Skivvers is a hub of creative activity.  

“In the front rooms, there is a craft shop that is dedicated to made-in-Newfoundland, hand-crafted items made of wool or related to wool crafting, hand-dyed wool, and now also a range of commercial yarns and crafting tools,” Veronica says.  

“The idea had been in my mind for a while … I have been knitting for many years, and wanted to move into some wool processing, spinning and dyeing.” 

While Veronica had planned on a studio on her own property, the current building on Main Road in Cow Head unexpectedly became available, allowing her more space and visibility in the community.   

A Knitting Circle 

With the support of CBDC Nortip, Veronica opened Skivvers Fibre Studio and Wool Craft in June of 2021 and has since been operating part time in the winter months and full-time, now with several staff during the tourist season.  

“For me, being a small business owner has meant the satisfaction of being able to take an activity that has been a lifelong passion for me and watch it blossom into a viable, sustainable venture that I can actually generate an income from,” she says. “That I can spend my day ‘playing’ and it is my work! I get to indulge my creative side in so many ways, and it is gratifying to see people respond to the products I create.” 

CBDC provided financial support in the form of a General Business Loan, which helped Veronica to purchase and prepare her new space, but also access to experts through the Consultant Advisory Service (CAS), to work towards becoming a member of Economusee; an international craft organization. 

In fact, CBDCs across the province work every day to help people like Veronica to turn a passion into a successful business. When you’re ready to craft your future, get in touch with our business advisors and discover how we can help.