From Mandalas to Mischief: The Growing World of Ruff Kutts

When I first started Ruff Kutts, the plan was simple: create a meditative, creative experience with The Mandala Experience. A journey of mindfulness, creativity, and a little bit of plywood magic. It was supposed to be a straightforward project. Spoiler alert: nothing about starting a creative business is straightforward.

As the weeks turned into months, something unexpected happened—I realized I had a laser cutter, an overactive imagination, and a million other ideas for things I could make. Sure, mandalas are beautiful and meaningful, but why stop there? Why not bookmarks? Why not plaques with cheeky slogans? Why not limited-edition cufflinks for the one person on the planet who actually wants laser-cut cufflinks? And thus, the mischievous side of Ruff Kutts was born.

More Than Just Mandalas

Don’t get me wrong—the heart of Ruff Kutts will always be The Mandala Experience. But I realized I wanted the store to be a reflection of everything I enjoy: thoughtful, creative projects alongside fun, quirky items that make people smile. Whether it’s a customizable cake topper for someone’s special day or a rude plaque that says what everyone’s thinking, it’s all part of the same creative spirit.

And let’s not forget the limited-edition masterpieces. Sometimes, inspiration strikes, and I end up creating something so unique I only make one or a small handful. These are the kinds of pieces that, when they’re gone, they’re gone forever. It’s like catching lightning in a bottle, except with wood and a laser.

The Chaos of Creativity

Of course, running a store with such a broad range of products means every day is a little... unpredictable. One morning, I’ll set out to design a new mandala, and by lunchtime, I’m knee-deep in prototype coasters shaped like UFOs. By the evening, I’m brainstorming slogans for plaques while wondering why I thought it was a good idea to sell bespoke items on top of everything else. (Spoiler: it’s because it’s fun. And because I like a challenge.)

What’s Next?

Right now, I’m busy getting the store ready to launch with the first wave of products—smaller, faster-to-make items like coasters, bookmarks, and plaques. These will help pave the way for The Mandala Experience to truly shine. Every purchase helps keep the laser cutter running (and trust me, that thing is like a diva—it doesn’t work for free).

So whether you’re here for the serenity of a mandala or the cheeky charm of a custom coffee stirrer, I’m thrilled to have you along for the ride. Stick around—there’s plenty more to come, and I promise it’ll be worth the wait.