Inspiring Conversations with Shaneen Jimeno of Cute Basic Scarf

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shaneen Jimeno.

Hi Shaneen, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Hello my name is Shaneen Jimeno, I’m a 45 year old Cuban and Bajan American woman. My brother and and I was raised in a single family home in Cambria Heights Queens NY by my grandmother and my mother, two very strong Bajan American women. When I was in my twenties I left New York and relocated to Miami Florida to get closer to my Cuban side of the family. All together I have 4 sisters and 2 brothers. Years later I moved to Kissimmee with my older sister and her family.

I used to ride on the bus down Irlo Bronson and pass Joann’s fabric store in Kissimmee to and from work. Each day going to work I would always say to my friend that one day I will go inside that store and learn how to create something. I wanted to one day create something everyone would be proud to wear. Something created by me. I called my Tia (aunt) Gladys who is one of the most creative people I know and told her that I wanted to learn how to crochet. She sent me books and hooks and advised me to go on to YouTube and teach myself.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Trying to learn how to crochet over the internet was the biggest struggle of them all. It was not an easy task. I remember my first project, a basic scarf. It was lopsided, my stitch count was off, and it was horrible. I could not grasp the concept of learning how to count stitches and to learn how to hold the hook and the yarn at the same time. It was incredibly challenging. Being the perfectionist that I try to be, I had to learn the art of crocheting and I had to stop trying to act like I knew what I was doing and really practice and learn the craft the way you are supposed to.

We’ve been impressed with Cute Basic Scarf, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The name of my company is called Cute Basic Scarf by Sha. I chose the name because it’s exactly who I am, cute and basic who crochets scarves and accessories for the everyday person. I started out being known solely on scarves. As I progressed, my company is known for more than just scarves. I create hats and beanies, ski mask, swimsuit cover-ups, bikinis, baby clothing, and accessories. Currently, I am working on a home edition line which includes blankets, throws, baby blankets, and pillow covers.

What sets me apart from others is that I am willing to expand and create accessories for everyone. You do not have to be fashionable because you are into high-end fashion, you can still be fashionable by being cute and basic. My line is for everyone.

I am proud of all my creations because it shows how far I have come in this competitive field. I am proud of learning from my fellow crocheters who have come before me and showed me that quitting is not an option. I love seeing the smiles on my customers’ faces when they receive their orders.

I offer custom and made-to-order items such as crochet swimwear and clothing products. If you are in the Kissimmee and Orlando area, I would offer free delivery. I am currently working on donating to the children’s hospital with blankets and hats for newborns.

We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
Good luck and bad luck taught me not to give up on my passion. To keep going. Without bad luck there is no good luck. You must take the good with the bad. Eventually, everything will balance itself out.

Pricing:

• Scarves ranges from $20 – $60.00
• Baby Blankets $60.00
• Throws and Blankets ranges from $100-$250
• Beanies ranges from $25-$60
• Swimsuit coverups $40-$75

Contact Info:

• Website: cutebasicscarfbysha.com
• Instagram: @cutebasicscarf llc
• Facebook: Cute Basic Scarf by Sha