From Passion to Profession: How Kanvay Started as a Hobby

My journey with Kanvay embroidery started long before it became a business—back in Year 10, during my GCSE Textiles and Art classes. At the time, I was just a student with a love for creativity and a deep desire to express my Uyghur identity. I spent two years pouring my heart into my school projects, using art as a way to introduce my culture and raise awareness about the genocide happening in my homeland.

I still remember how proud I felt when my work was displayed on the school’s art walls for everyone to see. Even more than that, my parents were proud of me. It was a moment that showed me the power of creativity and the impact it could have on others.

After secondary school, I didn’t pick up embroidery again for years. Life moved on, and I never thought I’d return to it—until one day, I came across an embroidery kit in a shop. It had a beautiful design that caught my eye, and out of pure curiosity, I decided to try stitching again. That small spark brought everything back. I later added traditional Uyghur doppas to the piece, and it became my first framed embroidery artwork.

From there, something just clicked. I began collecting hoops, fabrics, and threads, experimenting with different patterns and styles. What started as a curious moment turned into a full-blown hobby—and that hobby slowly grew into something more.

Today, that passion has evolved into Kanvay, a brand that combines my love for embroidery with a mission to celebrate and preserve Uyghur culture. Through Kanvay, I aim to bring the beauty of traditional embroidery into modern, wearable pieces that tell a story—a story in every stitch.

Looking back, it’s amazing to see how far a school project and a moment of curiosity have taken me. And I’m just getting started.