Our story

Hello shapirta!

Shapirta means "pretty" in Assyrian -- my native language. Shapirta Designs blends my rich Middle Eastern heritage and culture with my new-found love of fashion design and sewing -- and of course our kiddos (both furry and human). I'm a longtime journalist and news leader who fell in love with sewing and I'm excited to share my creations. 

I've named some of the scrunchie bandanas (and soon toddler apparel) after the pups that've made my life complete -- including Lucky, the cutie you see in this photo. Lucky is a rescue dog who was struck by a car in 2012 and left for dead. I spotted him on the side of a busy intersection as I left my newsroom in Merced, California, for lunch. I took the little guy in and pretty soon he adopted me. 

Now, our party of two has turned into five -- my husband Josh, sweet daughter Vienna, my late mom's beloved dog (look for her bandana, Mashee's pick, and her photos on the site!) and of course Lucky. 

Thanks for stopping by. Please reach out with ideas and custom orders, sizes and designs.