In 2020, Brenda Guajardo bought a sewing machine, scrounged up pieces of old fabric, and gathered some stuffing with a plan to make a gift for a close friend in need. The need was for a sturdier toy, and the close friend was Brenda’s dearest companion, Miles, her fox-red, English Labrador. It was then that the inspiration for Yards and Miles Studio, LLC began.
Today, the studio offers myriad products handmade by Brenda. A combination of hand-crafted items, expert skills in embroidery, and an eye for attention to detail establish a firm foundation for each piece. This, alongside a focus on quality, precision, and meeting the vision of the client, produces items that are truly one-of-a-kind. Products available include pencil pouches, tote bags, make-up bags, wristlets, wreath sashes, and other home accessories, not to mention unique items like custom-sewn and embroidered dog bone toys or pillows. Consulting thoroughly with each client regarding choices in fabric, lettering, style, and size for each piece she custom creates is a unique addition that is standard to the service clients receive at Yards and Miles. Her one-of-a-kind trademark is the embroidered encouraging word or words inside each item. Words such as, “Brave & Beautiful”, “Believe & Achieve” or “Laugh often” are embroidered inside as gentle (and private) reminders.
If preferred, customers can also choose their own encouraging words.
When asked about her custom embroidery, Brenda says, “There is something classic and timeless about an embroidered item because the personalization is in the fabric—in the grain—so it won’t wash away. It makes a high-value statement for businesses and personal gifts. Yes, it is a bit more expensive but that’s what really makes the statement when you present it as a gift or you keep it for yourself. You’re saying, ‘This is important to me and I want to enjoy it for a long time.’ ”
One of the top-selling products for many reasons at Yards and Miles Studio are customized wreath sashes. These add a welcoming touch to front doors and are a fun way to enhance home décor all year round. Sashes are quick and easy to use and eliminate the need to fill an attic with dust-prone wreaths. Also, they are machine washable, iron friendly, and boast approval from most spouses for not taking up space—they fit nicely folded in a small drawer. As with each of her items, Brenda consults with the client over desired details to produce a custom sash that is decorative but more importantly, meaningful and something that can become an heirloom piece.
Scan the code to learn more about Yards and Miles Studio, and checkout Brenda’s work on Instagram too.