What do you make?
I make a range of clothing and toys for children, including animal hats, costumes, tails and one-off clothing. I also make a range of plush toys including Wild Ones, monsters, bunnies, coffee cups, ragdolls and whatever else takes my fancy.
Why would you buy something handmade?
Firstly because it is made with love, most crafters make things because they love it, and it's wonderful to be able to support that. I love the individual nature of handmade things, there are so many talented people out there with incredible skills and imagination, it's important to cherish and support that.
Where else might we see your work?
Blackbird Gifts in Heathcote,(Station Road, Christchurch)
Cows Go Moo Designer Store (High Street, Christchurch)
How did you get into your craft?
I have been sewing since I was little and once I started having kids, I began making clothes for them. I got bored with mass produced bland clothes and wanted to make bright and funky clothes for them. After my third child was born I started by making her a ladybird pinafore, then a matching ladybird winter hat (that she couldn't rip off). Friends commented on her ladybird hat and it got me started making animal hats for everyday wear, and everything grew from there.
Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
No, none, I got my first sewing machine at 15 from my grandma, and since we didnt have a lot of money I started refashioning op shop finds and then making my own clothes.
I have taught myself over the years. Over the last year and a half since starting Wild Ones my sewing skills have improved a lot through lots and lots of sewing!
Is there a philosophy behind your work?
Fun!!! Kids' clothing should be as fun, funky and unique as the children themselves!
I love bright colours and funky patterns, and I love to see kids' faces light up when they try on my clothes or cuddle the toys.
What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes?
I just love fabric! I have become a self professed fabric addict. I have far too much of it.(if thats possible). I love bright colours, funky patterns, vintage fabrics, soft fluffy fabrics, and the list goes on... Generally I will have a vague idea, I might do some sketches, then I will make up a rough pattern then go from there.
wildones.felt.co.nz
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