When masks became scarce, Erin and her sister started making better alternatives. What began as a Facebook group quickly turned into a movement, providing free, high-quality masks to those in need.

In 2021, Erin and her husband lost everything they owned in an apt building fire—including her sewing machine, fabric, and every tool she used to build BTYB. With nothing left, she faced the difficult journey of starting over from the ground up. But even in loss, her passion for creating never faded.

Determined to rebuild, Erin slowly restarted BTYB, piece by piece. This was the year she leaned into the world of in-person markets, connecting directly with the community that had supported her since the beginning. These markets became a turning point, allowing her to share her work, build relationships, and breathe new life into the brand.

BTYB’s craftsmanship and artistry gained major recognition when Erin was featured as a local artist at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA). This milestone cemented her place not just as a maker, but as a creative force in the world of handcrafted design.

BTYB was named Gold Winner for Best Locally Made Product on the Peninsula in Coastal Virginia Magazine’s Best Of 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards and again in 2025 with Overall Gold Winner (ranking higher than all companies nominated on the Southside and Peninsula). With a loyal community, a growing collection, and a commitment to quality craftsmanship, BTYB continues to evolve—one stitch at a time.

BTYB is evolving! With a fresh new look and an expanded vision, we’re introducing a line of sewing patterns—designed for makers who love to create. This rebrand marks the next step in our journey, blending the heart of handmade with the excitement of new possibilities. The future of BTYB is all about creativity, community, joy, and craftsmanship—better than ever.