Reclaim leisure

Refresh yourself

Reconnect with others

Sample Maker Application

Welcome to the Sample Maker Program

Miss Purl is a Black woman-led fiber arts studio rooted on the South Side of Chicago. We’re a space for joyful making, intentional creativity, and deep connection. A chill place where yarn meets soul-refreshing community.

We’re inviting skilled and passionate crocheters and knitters to collaborate with us by creating samples that showcase our yarns and patterns in ways that feel inspiring and approachable. Sample Makers help bring our mission to life by making it easier for someone to say, “I can make that.” Your work helps folks feel confident, curious, and ready to cast on.

APPLICATION PROCESS DEETS

If you're selected for the next step, we’ll invite you to a short conversation to hear more about your yarn craft experiences—what you love to make, how you approach your projects, and what lights you up.

As part of the interview, we’ll ask you to share three samples of your work. These help us get a feel for your craftsmanship, attention to detail, and unique making style. If you're outside the Chicago area, we’re happy to cover shipping costs. We take excellent care of all samples and return them within one week of receiving them.

We’re so glad you’re here. Let’s make something beautiful together.

Compensation Structure

We pay by yardage and complexity, with flat rates for smaller accessories:

Sweaters

  • Plain (stockinette/garter): $0.20/yard

  • Intricate (cables, lace, colorwork): $0.40/yard

Accessories (Up to 500 yards)

  • Basic: $100 flat

  • Intermediate (texture/shaping): $125 flat

  • Colorwork: $150 flat

Accessories (Over 500 yards)

  • Simple: $0.20/yard

  • Intermediate: $0.30/yard

  • Colorwork: $0.40/yard

Turnaround Expectations

We honor your time and understand that sample making is often one part of your creative life. Our turnaround estimates are designed with the understanding that makers may spend up to 8 hours per week working on their assigned sample for the duration of the project.

Project Type and Estimated Turnaround

Small accessories (≤500 yds) 1–2 weeks

Large accessories (≥500 yds) 2–4 weeks

Sweaters 4 – 6 weeks

Let’s help fellow makers actually feel and see what beautiful yarn can do.

We love working with makers who bring a spirit of possibility and encouragement to the table. As a Sample Maker, you’ll contribute to the “can do” energy that fuels our community. You’ll show fellow makers what’s possible with yarn, creativity, and care. Your samples help spark ideas, build confidence, and inspire others to keep making.

SAmple Maker Application

Here’s how to apply.

Ready to collaborate with Miss Purl as a Sample Maker? Here’s how to apply:

  1. Read the online Sample Maker page to understand the role, expectations, and perks.

  2. Complete the online application form by October 15.

  3. Wait for selection updates. We will reach out to a small group of applicants to schedule interviews.

  4. Prepare for your interview and sample submission. If selected, you’ll be invited to share three samples of your work (in person or by mail) and join us for a short conversation about your making journey.

Apply here

Perks and Appreciation

We value the time, skill, and spirit our sample makers bring to each project. In addition to compensation, Miss Purl offers the following perks:

  • Quarterly Yarn Discount: 25% off yarn purchases during the quarter your sample is submitted.

  • Sales Bonus: $25 bonus if your sample helps sell 10+ skeins of the featured yarn.

  • Sample Buyback Option: You may purchase your sample back after its display period at a discounted rate.

  • Yarn Option: Instead of a sample buyback, you may choose to purchase the quantity of yarn used in your sample at the Sample Makers only discount.