MotherWords

• • 3ARTS MATCH
  • 140% contributed

I am creating a special edition of handmade and embroidered washcloths to support mental health and wellness. Called MotherWords, these washcloths are embroidered with positive mantras in dual language that reflect real life and are socially responsible and environmentally conscious. In the coming year, I hope to develop MotherWords into a sustainable product line that will be available for purchase and follow a buy-one-give-one model.

About This Project

The idea for MotherWords first came about in 2018, after countless trips to big box stores, looking at that all-too-familiar line of home decor items with inspirational sayings that never seemed to fit my family’s experience. It was then that I decided I would create my own creative interpretation with the language of my family and my community. I began embroidering store-bought washcloths to give away and exhibit when a friend asked if she could have a set to give to her daughter who was struggling in college being so far away from home. She said that her daughter used the washcloths to clean her face every morning. Reading the words while washing was like hearing her mother’s voice at the start of each day. This helped her cultivate a positive routine and outlook. The gift of this story motivated me to make more. The washcloths continue to spark heartfelt connections whenever I share or exhibit them.

Each MotherWords washcloth design and color palette reflects my household’s mixed culture and lively energy. Font, color, and layout are handled with great care and attention. Your support will help me gain the training and equipment needed to take my vision to the next step, including producing a limited edition, first run of 100 cloths. I have already begun sourcing materials that are sustainable and researching the prototype process. I have identified environmentally responsible vendors such as Nature’s Fabric and Mohawk Paper Co. I will also create a custom website where the public can learn more and make purchases. Additionally, I will host a launch event where the washcloths will be used as teaching and engagement tools. Those who are able to contribute $100 to this campaign will receive a special limited edition MotherWords washcloth before the launch.

MotherWords washcloths are used to scrub in, scrub off, or gently wipe away anyone’s negative experiences of the day. Examples of phrases to be embroidered are: te quiero so much | I love you so much; you have his smile; en eso together | in this together; we have everything we need; respida | breath; and con cuidado | be careful.

MotherWords are a gesture of gratitude infused with love and care. They are a daily conversation with yourself, a love note, or encouragement for a child or friend. Thank you for helping me make this project a reality!

Thank yous

Contribute any amount or choose from the levels below.

• $10
  Thank you shout out on social media (Facebook and Instagram) ($10.00 is tax deductible.)
• $25
  Above, plus receive a surprise zine in the mail. ($23.00 is tax deductible.)
• $50
  All of the above, plus an original postcard print created and signed by the artist. ($23.00 is tax deductible.)
• $100
  All of the above, plus be amongst the first to receive a handmade "MotherWords" washcloth with a personal note from the artist ($43.00 is tax deductible.)
• $250
  Be the first to receive a full set (4) of responsibly produced "MotherWords" washcloths, including 1 personalized washcloth. ($100.00 is tax deductible.)
• $500
  All of the above, plus a personal Screen Printing Workshop for up to 3 people (screen print your own posters or t-shirts; all materials provided), plus receive a special thank you on the "MotherWords" website ($250.00 is tax deductible.)
• $1000
  All of the above, plus a Screen Printing Party for up to 8 people (print posters, t-shirts, and tote bags; all materials provided. This donation perk includes all of the above minus the workshop for up to 3 people.) ($625.00 is tax deductible.)

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Jessica Mueller

Make a Wave Artist

Jessica Mueller is a faculty member in the Design Department at the American Academy of Art. Since 2004, she has been a teaching artist with Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education (CAPE), working in Chicago Public Schools. Jessica holds an MFA …

View Jessica Mueller's profile

• 6 updates
• 63 supporters

• Update 1: MotherWords Project Update!

  Posted on October 03, 2022

  

   

  Hello!

  You're receiving this email because you were among the first contributors to my 3Arts campaign. I'm happy to report that just over 1.5 weeks in MotherWords is 76% funded! I am forever grateful for the love and support of each and every person who has contributed. This process is helping me push past my fears around self promotion, imposter syndrome and fundraising. I can't believe I nearly let that anxiety stop me from participating in this amazing program. 

  MotherWords has been evolving bit by bit over the past 4-5 years. Currently, I am focusing on the crowdfunding campaign and developing the MotherWords website. Next, I will be purchasing embroidery software, completing classes at the Singer Factory Store, and making final decisions on sustainable fabrics. None of this would be possible without your support.

  I will continue to post updates here and on social media as MotherWords unfolds. Stay tuned <3 

  xo,

  Jessica

   

  Update 2: Thank you!!

  Posted on October 25, 2022

  

   

  Good afternoon!

   

  I have wonderful news to report... Thanks to your generosity MotherWords has exceeded the original goal and I now have a solid foundation to build on! This has definitely been an equally uplifting and humbling process and I am so grateful for your support. Mil gracias for helping me get this project off the ground. 

   

  We've now entered the next phase- the STRETCH GOAL! With the time left, I would like to keep fundraising towards a total goal of $8,000 to $10,000. With additional funds, I’ll be able to purchase a professional grade embroidery machine, hire a web designer, and expand the distribution plan.

   

  I appreciate you sharing with anyone you think may be interested in this project. Occasionally, I'll send messages through this system to keep you up to date on the project and once the campaign has closed I'll be in touch to send your thank you gifts.

   

  Thank you for believing in this work and for your continued support!

   

  xo,

   

  Jessica

  Update 3: Beyond Grateful!

  Posted on December 31, 2022

  

   

  Your support has filled me with so much love and gratitude. Together, we raised $7,000!! This is just the jump start that MotherWords needed! Today I had the amazing privilege of purchasing and unboxing my brand new pro dual embroidery/sewing machine and specialty software thanks to your belief in this work. 

   

  Here are a few other important project updates:

  1. First of multiple one-on-one embroidery lessons is scheduled for January 6th!
  2. I will be settling on a new sustainable fabric supplier in the coming weeks, as the company I was originally working with has discontinued my favorite hemp based fabric. 
  3. Thank Yous (zines + postcards) will be sent out soon! Winter break has presented the perfect opportunity to create just for you:) 
  4. Washcloth production will start as soon as I get comfortable with my new baby (aka embroidery machine). Anyone receiving Thank You washcloths will receive them via snail mail as soon as they are ready.
  5. MotherWords is on track to launch just before Mother’s Day 2023! More soon <3 

  Thank you, thank you and cheers to a new year and endless possibilities! 

   

  xo, 

   

  Jessica 

  Update 4: August 28th Event | MotherWords

  Posted on August 19, 2023

  

   

  Hello!

  It’s with much love and excitement that I extend to you an invitation to MotherWords release event, August 28th at Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education. 

   

  There will be a special activity for everyone to create their own MotherWords inspired mantras. For those who contributed at the $100 level or above you’ll be able to select and take home your thank you washcloth. This is a special edition made from all sustainable cloth (organic cotton and hemp). A limited number will be for sale at the event. Your support has made this possible and I am forever grateful!

   

  This celebration is in conjunction with CAPE’s inaugural WORKROOM Residency which granted 9 artists incubator space for the summer months. Tony Collins, fellow CAPE artist and studio mate will be sharing his work. The other 7 artists will also have work on display. 

   

  This is a family friendly event and light refreshments will be served. If you’re not able to attend, no worries. I will send your thank you gift in the mail.

   

  The details:

  August 28, 6pm

  Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education (CAPE)

  1010 W 35th Street Suite 697, Chicago

  Parking is typically available in the lot. If it is not, street parking is available. 

   

  Warmly,

   

  Jessica 

   

  Update 5: 8/28 Event Postponed!

  Posted on August 28, 2023

   

  Hello! 

  Today's event has been rescheduled for September 6th, 6-8pm due to unforeseen circumstances with flight delays and broken planes. My apologies for the inconvenience, but I look forward to seeing you very soon. 
  
  

  Thank you! 
  
  

  Jessica

  Update 6: New Date! Sept 6th, 6-8pm

  Posted on August 30, 2023

  

   

  Hello again!

  Thank you for your patience. The MotherWords release event, has been rescheduled for September 6th at Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education. 

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  There will be a special activity for everyone to create their own MotherWords inspired mantras. For those who contributed at the $100 level or above you’ll be able to select and take home your thank you washcloth. This is a special edition made from all sustainable cloth (organic cotton and hemp). A limited number will be for sale at the event. Your support has made this possible and I am forever grateful!

   

  This celebration is in conjunction with CAPE’s inaugural WORKROOM Residency which granted 9 artists incubator space for the summer months. Tony Collins, fellow CAPE artist and studio mate will be sharing his work as well. 

   

  This is a family friendly event and light refreshments will be served. If you’re not able to attend, no worries. I will send your thank you gift in the mail.

   

  The details:

  September 6th, 6-8pm

  Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education (CAPE)

  1010 W 35th Street Suite 697, Chicago

  Parking is typically available in the lot. If it is not, street parking is available. 

   

  xo,

   

  Jessica 

• Thank you to the following for contributing to 3Arts with the recommendation that we support this project.

  • Nancy Mueller

  • Natasha Julius

  • Rosalba Rodriguez

  • Eric Reyes

  • Anonymous Supporter

  • Juliet Bond

  • William Estrada

  • Hilesh Patel

  • Michael Goro

  • Shevchenko Galina

  • Mara Flores

  • Patricia RAIN Gianneschi

  • Nicole Abreu Shepard

  • Amy Rasmussen

  • Joanne Vena

  • Elisabeth Dzuricsko

  • Joanne Tepper Saffren

  • Gina Robbins

  • Kim Mueller

  • Mollie Wray

  • Salome Chasnoff

  • Joseph Spilberg

  • Juliet Alejandre

  • Anonymous Supporter

  • Andre Porter

  • Noelle Garcia

  • Erin Lynch

  • Michelle Green

  • Anni Holm

  • Niema Qureshi

  • Nancy Murphy Spicer

  • Laura Paradis

  • Laura Saenz

  • Kerry Wade

  • Jennifer Botich

  • Tyler Kirkholm

  • Yaritzel Molina

  • Anonymous Supporter

  • rebecca bacon

  • Scott Sikkema

  • Graciela Moreno

  • Meagan Newman

  • Michael Tanimura

  • Brooke Markovitch

  • Silvia Gonzalez

  • Nancy Mueller

  • Leonard Mueller

  • Lise Ross

  • Asha Spencer

  • Angela Lopez

  • Kathryn Rodrigues

  • Louanne Smolin

  • Laura Baden

  • Tracy Netter

  • Christa Donner

  • Kelly Nespor

  • Anonymous Supporter

  • Ellen Tritschler

  • Simone Alexander

  • teju Adesida

  • Anonymous Supporter

  • Lisa Lang

  • Anonymous Supporter

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