Adventure Line

Coming soon

This collection is inspired by my favorite book and the spirit of taking long holidays. Featuring functional designs and unique emblems, every piece is crafted to keep up with the journey–wherever it takes you.

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BTYB PATTERNS

The Crispy Crossbody

BTYB Patterns’ debut design is here! This wearable T-Rex chicken nugget is fun to make and even more fun to wear. With a PDF pattern, illustrations, video tutorial, and exclusive material coupons, you’ll be stitching up crispy perfection in no time!

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VOTED BEST LOCALLY MADE PRODUCT– COSTAL VIRGINIA'S BEST OF 2024

AWARD WINNING CRAFTSMANSHIP

Out of nearly 250,000 verified votes, Better Than Your Bandana was named Gold Winner for Best Locally Made Product in Coastal Virginia Magazine’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards. This honor is a testament to the incredible support of the #BTYBFAM and the passion that goes into every handmade piece. What started as a simple idea has grown into a celebrated local brand—one that continues to evolve, create, and inspire. Thank you for being part of this journey!

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From Handcrafted Design to Museum Recognition

BTYB x VMFA

In 2023, Better Than Your Bandana was showcased at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA), recognizing its craftsmanship and meaningful design. The Galentine’s Day Line, created to uplift women and spark conversations around mental health, featured thoughtful details like custom zipper pulls and fabrics with hidden messages of kindness. This milestone celebrates BTYB’s evolution from a small movement to an award-winning brand that blends creativity with purpose.

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From A Simple Stitch To a Thriving Online Community

MEET ERIN MCARTY

What started as a way to help during a crisis quickly became a passion, a business, and a movement. In 2020, Erin McCarty picked up a sewing machine with no idea that it would change her life. From making masks for those in need to designing handcrafted bags and sewing patterns, she built Better Than Your Bandana with heart, hard work, and an incredible community. Every piece she creates is stitched with purpose, and every purchase supports the makers who helped shape her journey. What’s next? She’s just getting started.

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OUR STORY

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  • THE BEGINNING

    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.

  • A DEVASTATING LOSS

    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.

  • REBUILDING & NEW BEGINNINGS

    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.

  • A RECOGNIZED ARTIST

    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.

  • AWARD-WINNING BRAND

    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 leveled up the next year with Overall Gold Winner for Best Locally Made Product. With a loyal community, a growing collection, and a commitment to quality craftsmanship, BTYB continues to evolve—one stitch at a time.

  • A NEW CHAPTER

    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.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do you ship overseas?

Unfortunately at this time, no.

How long will it take to get my order?

It depends on where you are. Orders processed here will take 10-14 business days to arrive. Delivery details will be provided in your confirmation email.

What shipping carriers do you use?

We use all major carriers, and local courier partners. You’ll be asked to select a delivery method during checkout.

Can I return my product?

We always aim for make sure customers love our products, but due to the nature of these handmade products, at this time returns are not accepted.

Can I get my product personalized?

It depends on what you're looking to personalize. Please reach out to me via email at betterthanyourbandana@gmail.com for further information.

Any Other Questions?

You can contact us through our contact page! We will be happy to assist you.