Athens Grad Weaves Passion into a Thriving Business

(Post sponsored by Tinsley Title, Holt Wrecker, R&R lawn specialists, Gibson Pharmacy.)

At first glance, Addi Maytubby may seem like your typical college student: double-majoring in Accounting and Entrepreneurship at Texas Christian University (TCU), balancing a full course load, and working toward a master’s in accounting. But take a closer look, and you’ll discover an artist, an entrepreneur, and a maker who has turned yarn into both a business and a lifelong passion.

Like many creative individuals, Addi explored all kinds of crafts growing up.

“I jumped from hobby to hobby — slime, friendship bracelets, sewing — you name it,” she laughed out. “But once I picked up a crochet hook, something just clicked.” That moment of inspiration sparked years of dedication and, eventually, a thriving handmade business.

Now, five years into her crochet journey, Addi is the owner and creator of Addi’s Creations Studio, where she handcrafts plushies, keychains, accessories, and even sweaters — not just as a hobby, but as a serious and successful business.

“I love everything I make,” she exclaimed. “I make a little bit of everything and crochet a ton of animals. But, there’s something special about creating clothing. Making something for myself that I love like a sweater — it’s empowering.”

Empowering is a word that comes up often when talking about Addi, who graduated as salutatorian from Athens Independent School District in 2024. While attending Athens ISD, she earned her associate degree in Liberal Arts with a 4.0 grade point average through the partnership between Trinity Valley Community College and Pinnacle Early College High School, while working on growing her business.

As a proud Native and women-owned business, she shares her work at the Athens Farmers Market, her social media platforms, and through Etsy. But it’s not just the art that drives Addi — it’s the numbers too.

“My mom and sisters are accountants, so spreadsheets were always a part of my life,” she shared with a grin. “I love tracking expenses, figuring out pricing, and calculating profit margins. I have a spreadsheet where I log all my materials, from yarn to buttons to my hours, so I can price my items to reflect the true value of my time and skill.”

That balance between creativity and business savvy sets Addi apart. She understands the emotional and financial side of selling handmade art, and she’s passionate about helping others understand it too. Still, it wasn’t always easy for her to talk about her business. Addi would encourage young artists and entrepreneurs to say focused on what they want to happen, share the business, and stay driven.

“I used to be embarrassed to share my business,” she admitted. “But I went to a leadership camp, and every person I talked to thought it was so cool. That changed how I saw it — now, I talk about it with pride. Don’t undersell yourself. If you’re passionate about it, do it. It will take time and effort, but that’s okay. You are enough. Your art is enough. Keep going — you’re worth it.”