When I made an enclosed apiary for my own use, I soon realized what a fantastic solution it would be for any backyard beekeeper with limited space.

After applying for a patent for my “Enclosed Apiary with Configurable Flight Portal,” I went to work to develop it into a product. The result is the HoneyBower Enclosed Apiary Kit with a curated selection of the finest, most durable outdoor textiles and fasteners.

And because I’m retired after a long career producing software documentation and training material, I wrote some good, easy-to-follow instructions for the first-time seamster.

The next step was to launch HoneyBower as an online store where people can buy apiary kits, ebooks, tools, and supplies, with a Community forum where people can connect, learn, and share their experiences.

Most beekeepers are do-it-yourselfers by nature, but not everyone is inclined to take on a big sewing project. So if sewing ain’t your bag, Baby, let’s find someone to make it for you!

In fact, quilt makers have an ideal setup for making enclosed apiaries and some would welcome the business. The HoneyBower Community forum is just the place where a beekeeper might find a quilting bee.

Making connections like this is sometimes thought of as “building an ecosystem around a product,” which is just another way of saying that you’re bringing like-minded people together in a win-win situation.

And don’t worry if you’re not an experienced seamster. By the time your enclosed apiary is finished, you will be! It won’t be long before people are asking you to make one for them!