Rising Stars: Meet Johana Melbert of Downtown Raleigh

Today we’d like to introduce you to Johana Melbert

Hi Johana, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My love for fiber arts began when I was just eight years old, growing up in Colombia. I spent countless hours crocheting and knitting scarves, hats, and sweaters, fascinated by how a single thread could transform into something beautiful and useful. At sixteen, I moved to the United States, and after finishing high school, I joined the U.S. Army. Serving in the Army took me to many countries, including three deployments to the Middle East. When I decided to leave the service, I remained connected to the military community, supporting my husband, who was still enlisted, for another five years.

In 2011, my life took an unexpected turn when I lost my husband. Seeking a new beginning, I moved to Raleigh, North Carolina, where I became a Deputy Sheriff in Wake County. It was a challenging but rewarding chapter in my life, and I dedicated myself to service until 2020. With the onset of the pandemic, I transitioned to a remote job, which gave me more time to rediscover my creative side. During those quieter days, I picked up my crochet hook again, feeling the same joy and peace I’d known as a young girl. It was a powerful reminder of where my heart truly felt at home.

I started creating practical, handmade pieces—scrunchies, baskets, bags, and blankets—and realized that my passion could become something more. That was the beginning of Parcero Studio. In 2023, I took my work to several vendor markets around the Triangle, sharing my creations with the community. My dream, however, had always been to create a physical space where people could come together to learn, create, and feel inspired.

This dream became a reality when I opened Parcero Studio in the heart of Downtown Raleigh. Parcero Studio isn’t just a store; it’s a warm, inviting place to connect with the fiber arts community. We showcase specialty yarns and handmade items crafted by local artists. Whether people come to browse, relax, or learn a new skill in one of our workshops, Parcero Studio is a space for creativity and community—a place where everyone is welcome to unwind, learn, and make something beautiful.

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?
It has been a smooth but a long road. I see challenges as something to work on and overcome instead of complaint about it. Finding a space to open Parcero Studio was a hard task, I would spent days driving all over checking out retail spaces for rent or lease, but consistence paid off and Downtown Raleigh was the perfect place to open a Yarn & Gift Shop.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in practical, useful, and minimalist crochet products. Parcero Studio is known for chunky knit blankets, chunky pet beds, unique sweaters, among other products. Parcero Studio is also known for featuring a curated selection of cotton and chenille yarns.

I am proud of creating something from scratch, I am proud of become a small business owner and making me dream come true. I am proud to collaborate with talented local artist and bring their items into the store because we are here to support each other.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I read a lot of motivational, stoicism, and self-help books. Some of my favorites are The Alchemist, Ikigai, The Mountain is You, The Daily Stoic, The Courage to be Disliked, The 5 Second Rule, Never Finished, Can’t Hurt Me, Meditations, and Siddhartha.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.parcerostudio.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parcerostudio/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/parcerostudio
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@parcerostudio
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@parcero_studio