5 Things Travelling in South America Taught Me About Creativity and Business

Starting my backpacking adventure across parts of South America with only a carry-on-sized rucksack, I was ready for the journey I had planned. What caught me by surprise was how much travelling would educate me about managing my small business and sustaining creativity. From creating temporary embroidery spaces to accepting imperfection, these are the insights I gained while juggling adventure and artistry.

1. Flexibility is Everything

As someone with scoliosis, supportive seating is essential for long embroidery sessions. However, supportive seating was a rare luxury when travelling. I often had to scour hostels for the right spot or build a comfy nook using my backpack and clothes. Lighting was another challenge, so I had to get creative with angles and resources to make stitching possible.

Packing light also meant I had to be strategic about my materials. I carefully selected thread colours that could work across multiple projects. This limitation turned out to be a hidden blessing, as it pushed me to think resourcefully and appreciate embroidery’s portability. These challenges taught me to work with what I had, a mindset that’s carried over to how I approach creativity and problem-solving in my business.

2. Embracing Simplicity

At home, I often want everything to be perfect before starting a project — the right tools, perfect lighting, and a clear schedule. Travelling forced me to let go of that mindset. With limited resources and unpredictable schedules, I had no choice but to start with what I had.

This shift helped me overcome perfectionism and taught me to appreciate simplicity. It’s a philosophy I’ve carried back to my work. Whether it’s simplifying kit designs or streamlining my business processes, I’ve realised that less can truly be more.

3. Community Builds Connection

One of my favourite moments on this trip was stitching my coffee embroidery design in a café in Arequipa. A woman working there was so fascinated by it that she asked to take pictures, which absolutely made my day. Moments like these reminded me how creativity can bring people together.

Embroidery also helped me navigate the sometimes overwhelming atmosphere of hostels. When I felt unsure about approaching new people, I’d set up a little embroidery space. It became a natural conversation starter and often led to chats with other creatives. These interactions reaffirmed the value of community in both my travels and my business — whether it’s connecting with customers or collaborating with other makers.

4. Inspiration is Everywhere

Travelling through South America provided endless creative inspiration. In Ecuador, I visited Mindo, a cloud forest teeming with giant butterflies, lush plants, and vibrant birds. These natural elements sparked ideas for my Garden Fauna embroidery kit and other future designs.

Everywhere I went, from the salt flats of Bolivia to the Amazon rainforest, I found details that would later influence my work. This reminded me to stay open to inspiration, even in unexpected places.

5. Listening to Myself

I started my trip with a rigid schedule, thinking I could plan work and creative tasks a week in advance. But I quickly realised that my neurodivergent mind doesn’t always align with strict timelines. Some days, I woke up feeling ready to tackle projects; other days, I needed rest or exploration instead.

Instead of forcing myself to stick to plans, I began listening to what I needed each day. Surprisingly, this made me more productive and much happier. Since returning home, I’ve carried this lesson with me. I now allow myself to work when I feel inspired and take breaks when I need them, which has transformed how I approach both creativity and business.

Creativity While Travelling

Backpacking across South America was a crash course in creativity, resilience, and adaptability. The lessons I learned about working with limited resources, simplifying processes, building connections, finding inspiration, and respecting my own needs have shaped how I run Tired Starling Studio today.

If you’d like to bring a little of this travel-inspired creativity into your own life, you can explore my Garden Fauna embroidery kit, inspired by the natural beauty of Ecuador. And if you’re already stitching one of my kits, tag me on Instagram @katie_wells_ , I’d love to see what you’re creating!