Connecting Craft to Commerce: How Rural Research Guided a Yarn Exporter
Blue Thistle Fibers was established in 2024 by U.S. military veteran Clare Loftus, inspired by her passion for knitting and hand-dyed yarns. She naturally dyes fibers, creating one-of-a-kind, regionally inspired yarns for knitters and crafters around the world.
Blue Thistle Fibers was eager to explore global opportunities from the outset. That opportunity arose when the company attended an export development presentation hosted by the U.S. Commercial Service (CS) at the Small Farms Conference in Norfolk, Virginia. Motivated by what they learned, the team connected with the staff from the U.S. Commercial Service in Charleston, West Virginia, who provided tailored export counseling. These sessions helped the company evaluate promising international markets, navigate shipping logistics, and strengthen its online presence for global reach.
With guidance from the Appalachian Rural Export Center (REC), Blue Thistle Fibers pursued REC Research for a customized country Matrix. This tool identified key export markets, prioritized opportunities, and helped shape a long-term export strategy. Blue Thistle Fibers also received a Website Globalization Review (WGR) to gauge its website’s readiness for international audiences. The feedback led to a complete website redesign and a refreshed social media strategy targeting overseas consumers.
With support from the U.S. Commercial Service, Blue Thistle Fibers’ Business Manager, Sara Loftus, now feels confident and prepared for the future.
“The Rural Export Center has expertly guided us as we prepared Blue Thistle Fibers to sell internationally. When we started, we knew nothing about exporting, but they answered our questions with patience, kindness, and the resources we needed to make it happen. Now, thanks to their help, we’re ready for the challenges ahead of us.” - Sara Loftus, Chief Operating Officer
With a growing understanding of the export process and dedicated support from the U.S. Commercial Service, Blue Thistle Fibers is spinning new possibilities in global markets. Their journey demonstrates how small rural businesses can succeed abroad with the right tools, guidance, and determination.
For more information on how our services can help your business, contact the Rural Export Center or your local CS Trade Specialist today!