Braid Studios

Many of you knew Carla Thompson.

Carla had a remarkable gift for helping people feel seen, supported, and capable. Whether she was teaching a new skill, helping someone untangle their finances, offering accountability through body doubling, or quietly working behind the scenes to make things run smoothly, she brought kindness and patience to everything she did.

You may have known Carla through Braid Studios, the Decide Your Life Community with , her Holistic Bookkeeper business, her work with the Dot community or her Books & Brew sessions.

Carla first came to Braid Studios as a crochet instructor, but over the years she became so much more than a teacher. She served as our Paint Night Manager, Wedding & Events Manager, administrator, bookkeeper, trusted advisor, and dear friend. Even after moving to Vancouver Island during Covid, Carla remained an important part of the Braid community. For me, as owner of Braid, Carla was my right-hand person and one of my closest friends. For many others, she was a mentor, cheerleader, problem solver, and steady source of support.

Her impact reached far beyond any one business or community and the kindness she brought to each of them was always the same.

On June 27, I want to invite friends, family, artists, colleagues, clients, students, and community members to join us as we share stories and memories of this beautiful woman who touched so many lives. ~ Susan

Remembering Carla Drop-In
June 27, 2026
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Braid Studios
321 Sixth Street, New Westminster

Condolences may be shared thru the link in our bio.

We’re doing something we haven’t done in years. This Saturday, artists throughout Braid Studios are clearing out their studios.

Art supplies. Tools. Materials. Original artwork. Hidden treasures.

Come explore working artist studios and discover what usually stays behind closed doors.

The Braid Loft
2nd floor
321 6th Street, New Westminster
Saturday, June 6
12–4pm

Open Studios + Artist Surplus Sale

There’s a moment every artist knows.

When the table is finally clear enough.
When the machine is within reach.
When the light hits just right and you think…
yes, I can work here again.

Judy’s been reshaping her space—small shifts, thoughtful moves—until this new studio started to feel like it was working with and for her. And just like that… she’s back in it.

Back in the rhythm.
Back in the making.
Back in business.

This is what happens behind the scenes at Braid.
Not just studios—but spaces that evolve with the artist inside them.

(And sometimes… a little rearranging is all it takes to begin again.)

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Studios, both shared and private available. Artists join Braid Studios is a space to work within an active creative environment that encourages connection, mentorship, and the growth of their creative practice.