CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Step inside Tuftopia, and you’ll find a kaleidoscope of yarns, beads and crafting tools — but beyond the colorful supplies lies a story of perseverance, culture and community.
Opened in October 2024 by co-founders Mingzi Wu and Eva Zhung, Tuftopia is a DIY craft store designed to be more than just a retail space. It’s a community hub where people can create, connect and express themselves through art.
Tuftopia allows walk-ins who would like to work on individual projects or host private parties and group activities for children and adults.
Wu, who grew up in China, first came to the United States at 18-years-old to study at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. After graduating, she went back to China and taught English. Three years ago, she moved Corpus Christi again, drawn back by fond college memories and friends.
The relationships she formed helped shape her future. Together with Zhung, they took a chance to build something real for themselves and their families. In their own way, creating the American Dream.
“We both have children. The reason I opened this is because I want to have a good life for my kids and have something for myself. As a single mom it’s not that easy having a business and career by yourself but I want to show my kids that I can and I want them to be proud of me.” Wu said.
Zhung is a local restaurant owner, and with her help Tuftopia truly came to life. Zhung brought business savvy and structure, while Wu provided the creative vision.
“Art makes me calm,” Ming said. “Creating something with my hands always gave me peace.”
The store invites families, friends and individuals to gather and create everything from tufted rugs to painted porcelain.
“In China, we’re very family-oriented,” Ming said. “We like cooking together, eating together, and making things together. That’s our culture.”
Ming said she wants the shop to remain affordable despite rising import tariffs.
“No matter how much tariffs go up, we won’t add the cost to our customers,” she said.
Some of the material in the store may come from China, but Ming says Tuftopia’s heart belongs to the Corpus Christi community.
Tuftopia’s slogan — “Made with love” — encapsulates its purpose: to bring people together, spark creativity and foster a sense of belonging.
“Doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from,” Ming said. “We can be the best versions of ourselves.”
Tuftopia is located at 5625 Saratoga Boulevard. Click here to learn more.
