Nisha Blackwell points to an “origami bowtie” in a box of bowties for sale in Knotzland. Photo by David S. Rotenstein.

Knotzland founder and owner Nisha Blackwell at her Wilkinsburg shop at 303 S Trenton Ave. Photo by David S. Rotenstein.

Nisha Blackwell stands next to the vintage display case she got from Hot Rod Piercing. Photo by David S. Rotenstein.

Knotzland occupies a Wilkinsburg storefront. Before Kntozland, it housed a used furniture store, a mosque and for many years was U.A.W. local. Photo by David S. Rotenstein.

Nisha Blackwell at work inside Knotzland’s control center. Photo by David S. Rotenstein.

Nisha Blackwell at work inside Knotzland’s control center. Photo by David S. Rotenstein.

The Minnesota Opera Company’s “bowtie box.” Photo by Molly O’Gara, courtesy of the Minnesota Opera Company.

Minnesota Opera fabric swatches. Photo courtesy of Corinna Bakken.

Justin Starr, left, endowed professor of advanced technology at Community College of Allegheny County, calls the college’s robotics program “world-class mechatronics.” Photo courtesy of CCAC ...

“Vendor” by Herb Ascherman. Photo courtesy of Ketchup City Creative.

“Salish Sea Black Tailed Mule Deer” by Crista Van Slyck Matteson; “Red Octopus, Hermit Crab, Sea Anemones” by Serbay Doru. Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Glass Center.