Innovative designer, educator & entrepreneur
with a strong business background.
Welcome!
I'm Katherine Barnette Pinillos - an experienced designer with an entrepreneurial mindset and a passion for visual storytelling. My career has spanned multiple industries—magazine publishing, sporting goods, higher education, and K-12 education—each providing opportunities to expand my expertise as both a creative professional and businesswoman.
With a Bachelor's degree in Visual Communications + Art History and a Master’s in Business Administration + Management from Francis Marion University, I’ve cultivated a unique blend of design and business acumen. Recognizing the evolving relationship between creativity and strategy, I pursued my MBA to deepen my understanding of the business side of design—allowing me to elevate my career and impact.
In 2017, my MBA journey led me to the desire to launch my first business - an organic, holistic bath and body company - Southern Fields Soap Company.
In 2021, I transitioned into K-12 education, joining Colleton County School District as a Visual Art teacher while earning my teaching certification. Passing the Praxis and becoming certified in 2023 marked a new chapter where I could integrate my skills in design, marketing, and business to inspire and educate the next generation of creatives.
In 2025, I took my second leap into entrepreneurship and founded Lowcountry Quilt & Embroidery Co., combining my love for design with the art of quilting and embroidery. This venture allows me to merge creativity with craftsmanship, offering custom textile designs that bring personal stories to life. Building this business has been an exciting challenge—one that blends my background in design, marketing, and business strategy with my passion for creating meaningful, high-quality pieces and storytelling. I’m excited to grow Lowcountry Quilt & Embroidery Co. and connect with others who appreciate the artistry of visual storytelling.
When I'm not busy brainstorming, you can find me exploring the Lowcountry of South Carolina and bird watching.
Colleton County Middle School • August 2022 - Present
Classic Planning & Design Co. • February 2021 - October 2022
Grand Forest Inc. • February 2021 - April 2022
Francis Marion University • University Communications • April 2017 - January 2021
Southern Fields Soap Company • April 2017 - Present
FRANCIS MARION UNIVERSITY • UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS • AUGUST 2015 - APRIL 2017
FRANCIS MARION UNIVERSITY • UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS • NOVEMBER 2012 - AUGUST 2015
SHE MAGAZINE • FLORENCE, SC • AUGUST 2010 - NOVEMBER 2012
ALL STAR SPORTING GOODS STORE • FLORENCE, SC • AUGUST 2010 - NOVEMBER 2012
McLeod Health & Fitness Center • FLORENCE, SC • December 2010 - May 2012
Florence Family YMCA • FLORENCE, SC • August 2008 - December 2010
Francis Marion University • FLORENCE, SC • January 2009 - May 2012
Copyright © 2020 - Katherine Barnette - All Rights Reserved.
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