Our Story

Carrot Top Studio grew out of a love of making and a deep respect for the stories carried within faith communities. What began as volunteer work creating worship banners slowly unfolded into a practice of designing clergy stoles, each one shaped by season, symbol, and purpose. Over time, that same care expanded into art, teaching resources, and everyday objects designed to inspire, teach, and support daily life. This is the story of how the studio has grown steadily, thoughtfully, and rooted in meaning.

The Design Process

Shelves with brightly colored sewing threads
Jenny working on art in her studio
Clergy stole with trees being sewn on sewing machine

  • My design process is rooted in thoughtful creativity and attention to detail. Each piece begins with inspiration whether from nature, faith, or everyday moments then evolves through sketching, painting, and refining ideas. I take care to infuse each design with meaning, ensuring that the final product not only looks beautiful but also connects deeply with its purpose. From initial concept to finished work, every step is guided by a desire to create art that uplifts and inspires.

  • Inspiration for our work comes from a variety of sources whether it's the beauty of nature, the quiet charm of exploring libraries and bookstores, or the emotions stirred by music. Often, my most creative ideas emerge during meditative moments, where stillness allows me to fully embrace the world around me and channel it into meaningful art.

  • Each clergy stole we create begins with a thoughtful sketch, capturing the heart of the design. From there, we carefully gather fabrics that will bring the vision to life. Once selected, the fabrics are artfully arranged on the stole's base fabric, ensuring balance and meaning in every piece. Finally, the components are meticulously sewn together, resulting in a handcrafted stole that carries both artistry and intention.

    • churches big and small in all 50 states of the USA and around the world (inquire about possibilities if you don’t see your location listed!)

    • pastors in major denominations and non-denominational and interfaith communities

    • The General Assembly of the PCUSA

    • The West Virginia United Methodist Conference

    • wedding officiants

    • chaplains in schools, hospitals, senior living communities, and the military

    • a pastor who has requested that we stop sewing so she won’t be the poorest pastor in Alabama (she’d already purchased quite a few Carrot Top Studio stoles!)

    • a judge who officiates weddings

    • funeral directors

    • Reiki masters

    • friends gifting the newly ordained or installed clergy

    • my mom 😊

    • Canada

    • France

    • Germany

    • Haiti

    • Ireland

    • Japan

    • The Netherlands

    • New Zealand

    • Norway

    • Scotland

    • Sweden

    • Switzerland

    • The United Kingdom

      We are open to adding to this list! Ask if we can mail to you today.

Teaching

Teaching at Carrot Top Studio grows from the belief that learning is most meaningful when it invites participation, curiosity, and creativity. Through digital resources, guided practices, and educational tools, this work supports faith formation, reflection, and hands-on learning across ages and settings. These offerings are designed to be flexible, approachable, and rooted in real-world use.

Explore

In addition to digital resources, Carrot Top Studio occasionally offers lectures and workshops both online and in person. These gatherings are shaped by the same values of participation, visual engagement, and thoughtful exploration, and are designed for educators, faith communities, and groups seeking a creative approach to learning and formation. Inquiries about speaking or workshop opportunities are always welcome.