Teh Birth of Legit Kits: A Creative Spark

meet Mike O’Dell, an oklahoma City-based nurse anesthetist whose story transcends the ordinary. Beyond the demanding world of healthcare, O’Dell has cultivated a remarkable entrepreneurial venture, transforming his passion for quilting into a flourishing business that generated over $1.4 million in revenue last year. This endeavor, known as Legit Kits, showcases the potential of blending a fulfilling career wiht a profitable creative pursuit.

O’Dell’s foray into quilting began in 2018, driven by a desire to create a personalized gift for his sons. His initial project, a Star Wars stormtrooper design, was meticulously crafted on a large sheet of graph paper. The process involved a technique called “foundation paper piecing,” where fabric is sewn onto paper patterns, which are later removed. O’Dell found this method surprisingly accessible, even for a novice. This experience sparked an idea: what if he could simplify and scale this process to create quilting kits featuring a variety of appealing designs?

This vision led to the creation of Legit Kits in 2020. The company’s success is evident in its impressive sales figures. According to CNBC Make It, Legit Kits reported sales exceeding $1.25 million through Shopify alone last year. Moreover, O’Dell estimates an additional $150,000 in revenue from sales at Joann Fabrics and crafts.

Balancing Act: Healthcare and Entrepreneurship

Despite the recent financial challenges faced by Joann, leading to store closures, O’Dell continues to navigate his dual roles as CEO and creative director of Legit Kits and as a full-time nurse anesthetist. He dedicates one day a week to Legit kits, while spending the remaining four days at the hospital. This requires careful planning and a dedicated team.

Legit Kits employs a team of seven full-time staff members and four freelance designers who manage the day-to-day operations while O’Dell is at his nursing job. His primary responsibilities at Legit kits involve promoting the company on social media platforms, such as Facebook, and engaging with professional crafting communities. This strategic approach has even led to an appearance on ABC’s “Shark Tank” in January.

The ability to balance a demanding career with a thriving side hustle is a testament to O’Dell’s dedication and organizational skills. As recent data suggests, more and more individuals are seeking supplemental income streams, with approximately one in three Americans now engaged in some form of side hustle. O’Dell’s story exemplifies the potential for success when passion and possibility align.

More Than Just Profit: Finding Fulfillment in Craft

While Legit Kits has achieved impressive revenue, O’Dell emphasizes that the venture is about more than just financial gain. It’s a labor of love that provides him with a sense of fulfillment beyond his healthcare career. He finds satisfaction in creating products that bring joy to his customers and in contributing to the vibrant quilting community.

O’Dell acknowledges the challenges of juggling a full-time job with a side hustle, admitting to experiencing stress and sleep deprivation. Though, he believes that the rewards outweigh the sacrifices. As he puts it, Even though he concedes that most of the money a business makes goes right back into it, he remains optimistic about the company’s future growth and profitability.

This sentiment reflects a growing trend among entrepreneurs who prioritize purpose alongside profit. A recent study by Deloitte found that companies with a strong sense of purpose are more likely to experience higher growth and employee satisfaction. O’Dell’s commitment to his craft and his customers aligns with this trend, positioning Legit Kits for continued success.

The Future of Legit Kits: Innovation and Inspiration

O’dell’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, demonstrating the potential of transforming a hobby into a profitable business. The rise of e-commerce platforms like Shopify has made it easier than ever for individuals to reach a global audience and sell their products directly to consumers. Legit Kits’ business model, which focuses on creating quilting kits with licensed images, offers a unique and innovative approach to the conventional craft.

As O’Dell navigates the challenges of entrepreneurship, his journey provides valuable insights into the realities of running a business. Legit Kits is not just about maintaining a financial bottom line; it’s also about preserving and innovating a traditional craft, demonstrating that even in the age of digital technology, there’s room for creativity and skill. As O’Dell states, For O’Dell, Legit Kits isn’t just about the income; it’s a labor of love that brings him fulfillment outside of his healthcare career. This passion, combined with a smart business model and ongoing resilience, is what makes legit Kits a company to watch.

The Rise of Sustainable Quilting Practices

In recent years, sustainability has become a cornerstone of the quilting community. quilters are increasingly turning to organic cottons, plant-based dyes, and repurposed fabrics to create eco-amiable quilts. This shift not only reduces environmental impact but also adds unique character to each piece. ([thimblesquilts.com](https://www.thimblesquilts.com/blogs/news/7-quilting-trends-that-will-dominate-2025?utm_source=openai))

Pro Tip: Sustainable Stitching

engage in sustainable quilting by organizing fabric swaps with fellow quilters. This practice not only refreshes your fabric stash but also fosters community connections.

Embracing Hand-Stitching and Customary Techniques

There’s a growing appreciation for hand-stitching methods such as sashiko and English paper piecing. These techniques offer a meditative quilting experience and allow for intricate designs that machine quilting may not achieve.([thimblesquilts.com](https://www.thimblesquilts.com/blogs/news/7-quilting-trends-that-will-dominate-2025?utm_source=openai))

did You Know?

Hand-stitching can be a portable quilting option, allowing enthusiasts to quilt in various settings, from parks to waiting rooms.

Bold Geometric Designs and Colour Palettes

Quilters are moving towards bold, geometric patterns with vibrant color combinations. This trend reflects a desire for quilts that make a statement and showcase artistic expression. ([thimblesquilts.com](https://www.thimblesquilts.com/blogs/news/7-quilting-trends-that-will-dominate-2025?utm_source=openai))

Reader Question

What bold color combinations have you experimented with in your quilting projects?

Minimalism and Negative Space in Quilt Design

Minimalist quilts focusing on clean lines and ample negative space are gaining popularity.This approach emphasizes simplicity and allows each design element to stand out. ([thimblesquilts.com](https://www.thimblesquilts.com/blogs/news/7-quilting-trends-that-will-dominate-2025?utm_source=openai))

pro Tip: Exploring Minimalism

Start with a simple design and gradually incorporate more elements as you become comfortable with minimalist quilting techniques.

Color-Blocked Quilts and Modern Aesthetics

Color-blocked quilts, featuring large blocks of contrasting colors, are trending. This style offers a modern and timeless appeal, making quilts suitable for contemporary home décor. ([thimblesquilts.com](https://www.thimblesquilts.com/blogs/news/7-quilting-trends-that-will-dominate-2025?utm_source=openai))

Did You know?

Color-blocking can be an effective way to use up fabric scraps while creating visually striking quilts.

Textural Innovations in Quilting Materials

Incorporating diverse materials like linen, velvet, and denim adds depth and texture to quilts. This trend encourages quilters to experiment with different fabrics to enhance the tactile experience of their creations. ([thimblesquilts.com](https://www.thimblesquilts.com/blogs/news/7-quilting-trends-that-will-dominate-2025?utm_source=openai))

pro Tip: Mixing Textures

When combining different fabrics, consider their care instructions to ensure the quilt maintains its integrity after washing.

Improv Quilting: Embracing Creative Freedom

Improv quilting, characterized by spontaneous and unstructured designs, is gaining momentum. This approach allows quilters to break free from traditional patterns and explore their creativity without constraints. ([thimblesquilts.com](https://www.thimblesquilts.com/blogs/news/7-quilting-trends-that-will-dominate-2025?utm_source=openai))

Reader Question

Have you tried improv quilting? What was your experience with this free-form quilting style?

Leveraging Technology in Quilting

Advancements in technology are transforming quilting, from digital fabric printing to online quilting communities. These innovations provide quilters with new tools and platforms to enhance their craft and connect with others. ([thimblesquilts.com](https://www.thimblesquilts.com/blogs/news/7-quilting-trends-that-will-dominate-2025?utm_source=openai))

Did You Know?

Online quilting communities offer virtual workshops and tutorials, making it easier than ever to learn new techniques and share projects.

opportunities for Quilting Entrepreneurs

The quilting industry’s growth presents opportunities for entrepreneurs to launch businesses,such as online quilt kit sales or quilting workshops. By tapping into these trends, individuals can create triumphant ventures that cater to the evolving quilting market. ([thimblesquilts.com](https://www.thimblesquilts.com/blogs/news/7-quilting-trends-that-will-dominate-2025?utm_source=openai))

Pro Tip: Starting a Quilting Business

Focus on a niche market, such as sustainable quilting supplies or modern quilt patterns, to differentiate your business and attract a dedicated customer base.

FAQ: Navigating the Future of Quilting

What are the key quilting trends for 2025?

Sustainable practices,hand-stitching techniques,bold geometric designs,minimalist aesthetics,color-blocking,textural innovations,and improv quilting are prominent trends.([thimblesquilts.com](https://www.thimblesquilts.com/blogs/news/7-quilting-trends-that-will-dominate-2025?utm_source=openai))

How can I incorporate sustainability into my quilting projects?

Use organic fabrics, repurpose old clothing, and participate in fabric swaps to promote sustainability in your quilting. ([thimblesquilts.com](https://www.thimblesquilts.com/blogs/news/7-quilting-trends-that-will-dominate-2025?utm_source=openai))

What is improv quilting?

Improv quilting is a free-form quilting style that emphasizes spontaneous and unstructured designs, allowing quilters to explore their creativity without following traditional patterns. ([thimblesquilts.com](https://www.thimblesquilts.com/blogs/news/7-quilting-trends-that-will-dominate-2025?utm_source=openai))

How can technology enhance my quilting experience?

Utilize online quilting communities for tutorials, digital fabric printing for custom designs, and quilting software for pattern creation to enhance your quilting projects. ([thimblesquilts.com](https://www.thimblesquilts.com/blogs/news/7-quilting-trends-that-will-dominate-2025?utm_source=openai))

What opportunities exist for quilting entrepreneurs?

With the quilting industry’s growth, there are opportunities to start businesses such as online quilt kit sales, quilting workshops, or sustainable quilting supply stores.([thimblesquilts.com](https://www.thimblesquilts.com/blogs/news/7-quilting-trends-that-will-dominate-2025?utm_source=openai))