My Story

Hi I’m Katya, owner of Black Cats and Barn Owls. I’m a visually impaired artist and crafter. Despite getting a Bachelor of Science in Theatre and Forensic Anthropology I faced discrimination due to my disability when looking for jobs in the workplace. After two years of job searching I decided to open an Etsy shop in 2018. When I first opened my shop I wanted to give back in some way so I made tied fleece blankets and with every three that I sold I donated one to Project Linus. Project Linus is an organization that gives handmade blankets to children and teens in need. As the years have gone by I’ve grown my shop and made more things. I’ve made handmade soap, blankets, custom pet portraits, art prints, rustic signs, wedding centerpieces, floral arrangements, and holiday decor. As of 2025 I’m currently focused on art and making potholders. My shop currently has handwoven potholders, art prints, and merch items with my artwork on them. I am always open to custom art or potholder requests.

I was a GISH participant for two years, GISH (Greatest International Scavenger Hunt) was founded by actor, Misha Collins, it raises money for charities through acts of kindness, creativity, and fun activities. I love crafting, art, nerdy things, giving back, and bringing smiles to people’s faces. To me each order is a care package to a friend. I take time and care to make each package beautiful. For my newly added potholders I’ve included a handwritten recipe with each order.

On top of owning my small business I also work part time as an admin assistant and media relations liaison for a local bakery that is owned and run by disabled individuals. It has been an amazing experience to work alongside other people in the disability community. Carina, a blind baker and owner of the bakery has a very similar story to my own and I love working for her and helping her get her story out into the world.

I would like to thank my friends and family for always supporting me and my shop. If it wasn’t for their kindness and support I would not be where I am today. A special thank you to my Aunt Janet for supporting me and my shop from day one. Aunt Janet thank you for your kindness and encouragement over the years. I truly appreciate it and it means a lot to me. And a special thank you to my close friend, Leni for encouraging me and being someone I can share my ideas and progress with. Leni thank you for being an amazing friend and always being excited to hear about the projects I've been making. A special thank you to my close friend, Amy for always supporting my shop and ideas. Amy taught me how to make potholders. Thank you Amy for being an amazing friend and thank you for having craft days with me. A special thank you to my dad for supporting my shop, writing amazing reviews, and sharing my products with others. And a special thank you to my husband, Nick for always supporting my dreams and pushing me to grow my business.