Celebrating Black History Month with Glowforge Creator Niky Foster

This Black History Month, we're honored to spotlight Black creators who transform their creative visions into reality with Glowforge.

Amazing things happen when diverse voices come together to share their creativity! We're excited to celebrate makers who bring inspiring stories and fresh perspectives to the Glowforge community.

"My identity is just part of who I am...when people see my work, they know they can do what I did!"

Introducing: Niky Foster

She’s a content creator, YouTuber, and lifelong crafter who adds touches of vintage charm to her beautifully clean designs. We caught up with Niky to talk about everything from miniature dollhouses to jewelry displays, and to learn how she brings her creative visions to life.

Tell us a little about yourself! How did you get into making and crafting?

Hi! My name is Niky Foster, I’m a Content Creator and Youtuber. I’m a mom of two boys and a wife to the most supportive husband. I’ve always been into crafting my whole life. There have been many experiences where crafting has been significant. First, there was camp, where we would make different things daily like paper crafts, jewelry, the list goes on. I also saw my mom make crafty things to sell at markets when I was younger. I always thought some of her ideas were really cool and somehow shaped how I see crafting and gifting.

In general, I love the idea of seeing something in my mind and then creating it to be something tangible. Back in 2020, I decided to start a YouTube channel to document my creativity!

What do you love most about your craft, and what keeps you coming back to it?

There is so much to love about crafting. First, I love trying new types of crafts just to see if I can do it. I love the fulfilled feeling I get when I’ve completed something successfully. And most of all, it’s relaxing!

Do you have a signature style or theme that shows up in your work?

I love to describe my style as clean with pops of vintage elements or subtle decorative elements. It really depends on the project!

Can you share a favorite project you’ve made and why it’s special to you?

It’s so hard to pick one project. Over the holidays, I made a dollhouse with my Glowforge. I laser cut everything out, assembled the small furniture and plants — I loved painting all of the tiny pieces. It was so rewarding to see it all come together. I want to get into this more eventually!

How does your identity as a Black creative influence your work and the way you share it?

My identity is just part of who I am, so when I create I’m creating in a way that's fun and for anyone to make. I make and share my ideas with my whole online community and sometimes when people see my work, they’re inspired and know they can do what I did! I think that's pretty inspiring and I just keep sharing hoping it will resonate with anyone!

Are there any Black artists, crafters, or historical figures that inspire your work?

When I was first starting out, I swore by Pinterest! There weren’t many other crafters that looked like me, also crafting in a specific way. That’s why I love Amber, from Damask Love. Her style is vibrant, fun and for anyone. It doesn’t necessarily inspire my style, but seeing a creative in this space with fun ideas like hers are definitely worth trying. And I love trying new things. A few of her crafts, I have saved on my to try list!

Do you see yourself represented in the crafting world? If not, what changes would you love to see?

For a long time, I don’t think I saw many Black crafters globally, but with social media, more and more are showing up. It’s very inspiring for me to see their work and I think overall, Black creators' work being seen has a lot of significance. Honestly, I’m sure there are more waiting to be discovered by going viral.

I think YouTube has done a really cool job of highlighting some black creators during Black History Month and I think this offers a great way to find other like-artists that people may be interested in seeing. Pinterest is a great way for people to market their work as well.

How has social media or online communities helped you grow as a creator?

Social media helped me to document my creative journey. I’ve always had a knack for creativity, and a lot of work, prior to social media has never been seen. Creating my channel, filming for Instagram, challenges me in a positive way and helps me to push myself out of my comfort zone to try new crafts!

If you could share one message through your work this month, what would it be?

Overall, my goal is to inspire others on my craft and DIY journey. I’m sharing what I’ve learned along the way. I’m that positive friend that encourages friends to try new things especially when it comes to being creative, so find all sorts of different crafts and try them! I think being creative is relaxing and can even be therapeutic — especially when you're in the zone!

Thank you for sharing your story with us, Niky!

Don’t miss Niky’s next project! Watch her create one of her signature stylish Glowforge projects over on Instagram, and follow her YouTube channel for more DIY endeavors!