HYALITE DESIGNS ROPE ART BY KATIE MCKINSTRY STYLOS
- CrimpyJug
- May 27
- 2 min read
Hyalite Designs' spring collection drops this Wednesday 28 May 2025.
Crimpy Jug is stoked to interview artist and owner Katie McKinstry Stylos, to share the story of her work and climbing life.
Words by Katie McKinstry Stylos
Photos by Joe Stylos #jdstylosphotography
KATIE:
"When I moved to Bozeman, Montana in 2018, it was for the ice.
"I’d just returned from the Kahiltna Glacier and was itching to plant some roots somewhere with world-class climbing and a wild winter. I got a job at the local climbing gym, hoping to support my climbing goals—but found myself fitting rental shoes more often than lacing up my own.
"In 2019, a call from my dad changed everything. He offered me the chance to use his GI Bill (which assists veteran's families to access training and education), and within weeks I was enrolled at Montana State, pursuing a degree in Fine Art with a focus in graphic design—something I’d never considered before. But art, like climbing, is a skill you build
over time.
"While in school, I discovered rope art and started experimenting with scraps of old climbing rope, creating textured mountain scenes out of gear that had once kept people safe. My art business, Hyalite Designs, grew from that intersection of love for climbing, storytelling, and creative process. I now work full-time as an artist and designer, using retired ropes from all over the country—some with stories, some still a mystery. Every rope I use is saved from a landfill and given a second life as art.
"I haven’t figured it all out, but I get to create, climb, and connect with this incredible community.
"That feels like a pretty good start."
By Katie McKinstry Stylos
Follow along:
@hyalitedesigns
Katie McKinstry Stylos is a climber, artist, and designer based in Bozeman, Montana. Through her art business, Hyalite Designs, she transforms retired climbing rope into bold, textured landscapes. Her work is inspired by time in the mountains and rooted in a desire to give old gear a meaningful second life.
Follow McKinstry Stylos on social media and check out her website: www.hyalitedesigns.com
