After years of creating custom calligraphy, illustrating signs, and painting murals as a secret side hustle, I envisioned a new kind of calligraphy and illustration business focused on original, handmade pieces. In the fall of 2023, I decided to take a leap of faith to start my own business. Starting out as Abby Wyatt Writes, I did not have much of a longterm vision; however, after a late-night br
ainstorming session at the Waffle House with my husband—Durn Designs was born. Inspired by my childhood in rural Mississippi, Durn Designs encompasses the importance of handmade craftsmanship I learned from Paw Riley, my late grandfather. Named after something he would always say: "Well, durn," Durn Designs is a celebration of his life, his ever-creative ingenuity, passion for the outdoors, and love of tinkering. Having followed him around so much as a kid I gained the nickname "his shadow," Paw Riley was an incredible man who played a huge role in who I am today. From teaching me how to tie my shoes and ride a bike to how to fry an egg and tell a durn good story, I hope to keep his name alive through my small business.
