How would you describe your work?
I make bags, brooches, knit wear and toys, with a friendly, indie twist. It is quirky and uniquely styled while being hopefully very warm and fuzzy to look at, wear and hold. I try and make each piece as if I am making it for a treasured friend and I enjoy using traditional techniques in a totally fresh way.
How did your Etsy shop come into being?
I was told about Etsy by a dear friend of mine, Melania. She encouraged me to set one up after I commented on some things she had purchased via Etsy. I love taking photographs so it comes naturally to me to create a little space to share my pictures and introduce my work to a wider audience.
Who or What inspires you?
Nature! Trees, animals, birds, anything and everything around me. I spent a lot of my childhood with my father who is a keen bird watcher and we would walk together in the forests very quietly observing the environment around us. I am a huge fan of Andy Goldsworthy - his work is delightful and meditative at the same time and it is hugely inspiring to me that he uses natural materials to create such incredibly beautiful evocative art.
My friends and family too, past and present. Also the community in general - the older women I meet with at their residence once a week, the diverse people I work with when doing workshops, from African refugees to French travellers.....everyone has something to share.
Do you 'reduce, reuse, recycle' as part of your creative process? If yes, how is your art/craft eco-friendly?
Yes. I use atleast 95-100% recycled materials in all of my work or use organic materials. It is the core of my artwork to create beauty - to me that equates to creating without causing harm to either myself, others or the environment. I use vintage fabrics and buttons, I make felt from damaged knitwear and use remnants and items purchased from Reverse Garbage and op shops.
Can you describe your studio/work area?
I have a messy room to store all of my things, with a large set of shelves and tubs from Reverse Garbage with my wools and things in them. However, I take my crafting materials all over my house and rarely work in there!
What is your favourite thing in the shop at the moment?
My pine tree brooch is one of my newest things and because I am enjoying the process of making these so much, this would be a favourite!
Do you have any other places that people can view/purchase your work?
Thank-you so much for taking the time to talk with us Kate!
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