Daily Inspiration: Meet Rosilene Rodrigues Demizu

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rosilene Rodrigues Demizu

Hi Rosilene , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Art has always been a part of my life. As a child, I was drawn to anything handmade. Beyond drawing and painting—common activities for kids—I had already learned to crochet, knit, and sew, skills that became my hobbies throughout adolescence.

At the same time, I had a strong aptitude for math and other exact sciences. Despite my love for the arts, I didn’t see it as a viable career path at the time. Instead, I pursued my strengths in STEM, earning a degree in Automotive Mechanical Engineering. I worked as an engineer for 17 years, building a solid career while balancing marriage and motherhood.

It was during my pregnancy that the world of crafting reentered my life. I created much of my son’s nursery décor and layette, often with the guidance of my talented mother, who had taught me many of these skills. Over the years, I continued crafting for his birthday parties and special occasions.

Despite my established career, I longed for more time with my son. The pressures of my job and the guilt of being away from him began to weigh heavily on me, leading to a challenging period emotionally. After much discussion with my husband, I made the life-changing decision to leave engineering behind. My goal was to turn my hobby into a business, allowing me to work from home and spend more time with my family.

I started my small business back in my home country, Brazil, and just as I was gaining traction and building a steady client base, life took another turn. My husband received an expatriation opportunity in the United States, and we moved here in 2016. It was a fresh start for all of us, particularly for my son, as we prioritized his adjustment to a new country.

Once he was settled, I set my sights on reestablishing my business, but the pandemic in 2020 brought its own challenges. Still, after that difficult time, I fully committed to growing my business, dedicating myself to crafting unique handmade fabric dolls and other fabric toys that reflect the love and creativity I pour into each piece.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road—this journey has been filled with challenges, but each one has shaped where I am today.

When I transitioned from engineering to crafting, I was essentially starting over, building a business from scratch. It was a big leap of faith to leave a stable career, and the early days were filled with uncertainty. Moving to the U.S. added another layer of difficulty, as I had to adapt to a new culture, rebuild my business in a completely different market, and help my son settle into his new life.

Running a handmade business as a solo entrepreneur has its own set of challenges. From sourcing materials to marketing and everything in between, it’s a constant balancing act, especially when you’re also managing family life.

But despite these struggles, I’ve learned to embrace the journey. Each challenge has taught me resilience and pushed me to refine my craft and business. I’m proud of how far I’ve come and excited for what lies ahead.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in creating handmade fabric toys—dolls, loveys, and plush animals. My designs stand out because of their clean, timeless aesthetic and the thoughtful craftsmanship behind every piece. My dolls, in particular, have a simple and delicate design, which is a reflection of my own personality.

What I’m most proud of is how these creations start as simple ideas and evolve into something that can brighten someone’s day or become part of their cherished memories. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that what I make is loved not just as a toy, but as something special in someone’s life.

What truly sets me apart is the balance between artistry and functionality. My toys aren’t just decorative; they’re designed for play, comfort, and to last for years. I focus on high-quality materials and small-batch production, ensuring every item feels personal and intentional.

Who else deserves credit in your story?
First and foremost, I have to thank God, who has blessed me with the gifts and abilities that make my work possible. Every step of this journey has been guided by faith and gratitude for these blessings.

I’m also incredibly thankful for my beloved husband, who has been my biggest supporter. Whether it’s helping with house chores, assisting at craft shows, or simply being there to encourage me when I need it most, his unwavering support has been invaluable.

My mom also deserves a lot of credit. She taught me so much when I was a child—sewing, crocheting, and many other skills that form the foundation of what I do today. Her patience and guidance gave me the confidence to create with my hands.

Finally, I have to acknowledge all my mentors. I dedicate time every day to studying and improving my craft, and the knowledge I’ve gained from others has been instrumental in my growth. Their insights and expertise continue to inspire me and push me forward.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mrslittlerose.etsy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrs.littlerose
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrs.littlerose
• Other: https://www.mrslittlerose.com (coming soon)