A Craft Affair

The Night Market will return in 2011!

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 21:06:00 +0000

Sadly due to earthquake damage at Our City O-Tautahi, The Night Market won't be going ahead this Christmas. Thank you to everyone who has expressed an interest in taking part or coming along to shop handmade for Christmas - it's lovely to know it will be missed, and it's very disappointing to have to cancel, but The Night Market will be back better than ever in 2011. And don't forget, you can always buy gorgeous handmade gifts on Felt! Watch this space for the launch of this year's Felt Christmas Gift Guides next week...

A Virtual Tour – Part 4

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 22:29:00 +0000

These images are courtesy of Black Swan Designs.

nicolaJade – nicolajade.felt.co.nz

Freedom Creative – freedom.felt.co.nz

Tumbleweed Press – tumbleweed.felt.co.nz

Dear Colleen – dearcolleen.felt.co.nz

Ana Aceves – aceves.felt.co.nz

A Virtual Tour - Part 3

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 21:00:00 +0000

Threadmark - threadmark.felt.co.nz

The Sewphist - thesewphist.felt.co.nz

Miss Millie, Monkey Maker - missmillie.felt.co.nz

In My Backyard - inmybackyard.felt.co.nz

Needle Food Hand Dyed Yarn - www.needlefood.co.nz

A Virtual Tour – Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 22:00:00 +0000

The Busy Finch – thebusyfinch.felt.co.nz

Songbird Designs – songbird.felt.co.nz

Rethreads – rethreads.felt.co.nz

Pixelbrid – pixelbrid.felt.co.nz

Relique Vintage Jewellery – relique.felt.co.nz

A Virtual Tour – Part 1

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 21:49:00 +0000

Wild Ones – wildones.felt.co.nz

Cloud Nine Creative – cloudnine.felt.co.nz

Rose In Thorns – roseinthorns.felt.co.nz

Cat Taylor Design – cattaylor.felt.co.nz

Black Swan Designs – blackswan.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Rethreads

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 09:00:00 +0000

What do you make?
Reconstructed clothing: all wool collars, arm and leg warmers, scoodies (hood with a scarf attatched) hooded jerseys and cardigans with zippers. I'm also frantically finishing off a pile of iron-on patches, a brand new product for rethreads. Looking forward to introducing them at A Craft Affair!

Why would you buy something handmade?
Because I value people and relationships much much much more than money.

Where else might we see your work?
Come and find me in my studio if you can! That is a challenge (even for me at times) as I am living a 'pop up' life right now, moving every few days or weeks, including Canada and Australia. So, the best place to see my work is my Felt shop.

How did you get into your craft?
I made a couple of things from patterns as a teenager, then, when I was 16 I turned an old pair of overalls into a great sling bag. I wish I still had it! Since then, I've always played around with stuff, from felt penning punk slogans onto specially cut and ripped t-shirts to hand dying old sheets which I converted into layered kimonos.

I've always worked with natural fibres. In Vancouver in the 1970s, my mother, who was allergic to polyesters and nylons, could only find good quality wool, linen and cottons in thrift stores. I used to trail along behind her while she kept up a running commentary of the quality of the fabric and the methods she used to identify imposters (like polyester masquerading as silk.)

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
I had two years of sewing classes in high school, which taught me to be accurate. In 1988–89 I did a full time Craft Design Certificate at the Southern Institute of Technology. Even back then, it was so well appointed with all the studio space, materials and tools a generalist crafter like me could wish for. I went for it, working into every evening and at the end of two years I knew without a doubt that I did not want to keep working with dyes and chemicals. I also did an industrial sewing course which taught me that it was valid to sew at speed without pins, something I had always felt slightly guilty about!

Is there a philosophy behind your work?
Well, obviously I am big on recycling. I hate the waste of the fashion industry and feel horrified when my stuff is referred to as "fashion". Of course, if there was no fashion there would be no 'rethreads' so it's an interesting love-hate relationship I have there. I hate fashion but I love buying your fashion mistakes and then selling them back to you in a way that makes you feel funky and colourful and gives me a nice profit. That's a secret, by the way.

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes?
I am never happier when I am sorting through a big bag of donated clothing and fabric, or spending the morning at the $2 recycling warehouse filling my car with old clothes. In fact, I am convinced that this is one of my personal keys to well being, which makes it neccessary and also much much cheaper than therapy! In fact, my 'therapy' makes money! Isn't that grand!

I design with a pair of scissors, no measuring, no paper patterns, and I work fast. I have a blast. It works best when I am off to a party and feel I have nothing to wear. Most of my designs happened that way.

rethreads.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Pixelbrid

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 21:50:00 +0000

Photo courtesy of the Christchurch Press.

What do you make?
I make little artifacts that are real world representations of imaginary game worlds and the creatures that inhabit them. The pixelmice are escapees from a pixelart lab, translated into the material world by knitting one stitch per pixel of their digital selves. I use a bit of electricity to light up their noses, and sometimes they materialize as functional items like catnip mice and scrubbers.

Why would you buy something handmade?
Rather than handmade for the sake of it, I would buy because I fell in love with a particular item – like the perspex Pacman necklace I got at Craft 2.0 a couple of years back, or the Lego necklace where the colours of the blocks were so artfully matched. I love that through special curated craft events I have the opportunity to buy original, unique items straight from the maker.

Where else might we see your work?
I am selling some soft circuit flower kits on Felt, which are suitable for anyone who wants to try out sewing with conductive thread, and will be listing the other items in my range. I am currently working on a long overdue web presence, so watch this space.

How did you get into your craft?
I got into textile crafts growing up in rural towns, where nice ladies taught me knitting and spinning skills. I started to knit properly in 1986, because I really wanted a batwing sleeved colour block sweater dress. Noone would make me one, so I had to learn how to design and knit my biggest fashion statement of the 80s myself. After that all I wanted to do was study textile design.

The interest in soft circuits that I often incorporate into my work came from years of tinkering with electronics and robotics. Which in turn came from an obsession with cyberpunk fiction, Star Wars, and wanting light up rave gear. A few years ago I read about the work Leah Beuchley (the inventor of Lilypad Arduino sewable components) was doing at MIT with conductive thread, fabric and electronics parts, and saw a way I could merge my two seemingly disparate directions.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
Yes, after high school I did a 1 year full time foundation course in art and fibre craft, which got me into the 3 year Craft Design (textiles) programme at Otago. It was amazing to have that time to concentrate on developing my design theories and work. I majored in constructed textiles – woven tapestry and knitting.

Is there a philosophy behind your work?
Sort of “form follows function” contradicted by “cute needs no explanation”. I usually put eyes and ears on functional items like wash cloths, as a nod to the Japanese animist idea of Kami, or the essence/spirit of things. I grew up watching a lot of cartoons, and I really wished my teapot would talk to me, and that radishes had a spirit, like the one in “Spirited Away”.

I will admit to being quite influenced by Takashi Murakami’s “Superflat” philosophy. I like how he sees the marketplace as a channel for getting artistic concepts out into the world, and the flattening of artistic hierarchies e.g. ‘high art’ vs ‘low art’.

My work is also affected by Tatsuo Miyajima’s “On three concepts” – Keep changing, Connect with all, Goes on forever. He is a Japanese conceptual artist who uses LCDs. Actually it was seeing his work in person that sparked the electronics focus for me.

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes?
Tools: Soldering iron, light up knitting needles and crochet hooks (for knitting in the dark), spinning wheel, iMac. Materials: First and foremost, NZ wool! - yarn and fleece. Then conductive thread, electronics components, Arduino lilypad. Processes: Knitting, spinning, electronics, mechatronics, pixel art, woven tapestry.

pixelbrid.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Podflower

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 01:30:00 +0000

What do you make?
I make hand knitted wrist warmers and hats, soft toys made from recycled fabrics, and paper mache items such as mirrors, wall hangings, bowls, fridge magnets, and brooches.

Why would you buy something handmade? So many things in our world are massed produced and commercialised. Many of my gifts to family and friends are handmade partly out of my frugal tendencies, and also because I know that something handmade has something intrinsic and well loved about it.

Where else might we see your work? At the moment, I have a limited selection on Felt. My other commitments are coming to completion soon, and I plan to use the extra time to build up my Felt store over the next few months. Watch this space.

How did you get into your craft?
I grew up in an migrant family, my parents escaped a civil war and came to New Zealand as refugee immigrants. I grew up in a family who didn’t have a lot of money, but after surviving a civil war, they had lots of creative ways to make the most out of what little they had. Newspaper and paste was cheap, so paper Mache was a popular past time of mine as a child. My grandmother lived with us when I was growing up, and she was a mentor in a lot of my crafty endeavours. She taught me how to knit and crochet. She used to make us soft toys out of recycled old jerseys.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft? No. I learnt everything from books, on the internet and through trial and error. For everything that you see at my stall, was a lot of things that didn’t “quite” turn out.

Is there a philosophy behind your work? I like the idea of recycling and reusing materials where possible. This is why I like working with pre-loved fabrics and recycled paper.

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes? I don’t think I have a “favourite” material, tool or process. I use wallpaper paste for my paper mache and love the feel of glue squishing between my fingers. Applying layers of newspapers to a bowl or mirror can be quite therapeutic. I enjoy knitting and crocheting, and try to use pure wool when I can.

podflower.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Revived in New Zealand

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 22:00:00 +0000

What do you make?
Clothing and accessories for women and little girls from a right ol' mixture of retro, re-used and new fabrics. Oh and some lovely warm hand knitted hats and scarves too.

Why would you buy something handmade?
'Cos it is not mass produced, not many other people will have it and 99% of the time it is sooooooooo much better made. It is also good to support "Made in NZ". There is far too much imported rubbish in Aotearoa (but that's just my opinion).

Where else might we see your work?
Well – if you are braving the frosty Saturday morning at the Farmers' Market in Lyttelton, I am usually up the next level in the antiques market, come along and say hello! I am at Shabby Chic in Woolston in the summertime, and also Rolleston Craft Market on the last Sunday of each month (rain or shine).

If you prefer to not leave the house 'cos it's too cold – I do have a website that you can order through as well! www.wix.com/revivedinnz/revived

How did you get into your craft?
Basically I am a fabric fiend...like a magpie...always spotting out lush fabrics...I can't help it! I did start mucking about in ma's sewing drawers, then moved onto fashion and design at Christchurch Poly, where after that I worked in a bridal shop for 4 years (that's right LOTS of tantrums and tiaras)...great way to learn old-skool tricks of the trade and get my hands on beautiful off-cuts. If you are old enough (like myself) you may remember a shop above Whitcoulls called "Wyrd", I used to sell clothes up there too. I like the concept of something a little bit different, not manufactured. After getting side tracked for 8 years in the UK I returned a couple of years ago and got straight back into the sewing and handicraft as I missed it sooooooooooooo much!

Is there a philosophy behind your work? Yeah, just making people smile. Some fabrics bring back fond memories and other people just like what I do and love the clothes and fabrics. I try real hard to put in the personal touch – it's all about good karma.

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes? All materials are great! There is a saying in the fashion industry that says "never work with children or animals" – sometimes on a bad day I might add "knit fabrics and chiffon" but it never has stopped me using them! I really like doing all the hand stitching side of things. Like above, the "little personal touch".

revived.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Dear Colleen

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 07:30:00 +0000

What do you make?
I make super bright, cheeky, affordable art. If you like typography posters but are sick to death of 'keep calm and carry on' my work's for you.

Why would you buy something handmade?
because all the nicest things I find are handmade.

Where else might we see your work?
All over the place – it seems to have a life of its own. My 'Lemons' poster is a total tart – it's always popping up on other people's blogs and in newspapers; I'm sure I don't know half the places it's been :)

Oh and you can find me in a few shops now: the wonderful 'Swonderful, the beautiful Workroom in Clevedon and Donna Hay's General Store in Sydney. And of course on Felt.

How did you get into your craft?
I started Dear Colleen after quitting my day job, having no job or money really is the best incentive I've ever found. I've always enjoyed thinking up funny sayings and jokes so it was a straightforward move to start turning these into posters.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
Yes, I have a Masters in Graphic Design and have both worked and tutored in this field for a number of years now.

Is there a philosophy behind your work?
"Treat people as you would like to be treated, karma's only a bitch if you are." A friend just sent me that quote and it pretty much sums up how I feel about business. In online selling word of mouth is everything so you have to be good to people and let's face it, you should be good to people anyway.

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes?
Words, imaginations and whatever materials I need to make my ideas a reality.

dearcolleen.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Zippitydoodah

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 01:30:00 +0000

What do you make?
Zippitydoodahs are handmade from unloved zippers that I have taken apart and reworked into brooches, corsages, chokers and rings. I'm constantly seeking unloved zippers old vintage ones or more modern ones that are surplus from designer workrooms. Zippities can be anything from bejewelled roses to little birds.

I also make homeware like my Morepork Butler doorstops using retro and vintage fabrics, I have amassed quite a stash of fabrics while I have worked in various roles in the textile industry, I just can't bear to see anything beautiful thrown out, hence the challenge to turn textile surplus into useful, desirable objects. I usually let the materials suggest what they want to be, sometimes you get a chocolate fish sunglasses case, or a recycled wool blanket owl hottie cover!

Why would you buy something handmade? Handmade is hot. You're getting a unique and original item made especially with you in mind! It's usually locally made, it's made with love and care by a talented person. I'm all for supporting starving artists and encouraging them to continue with their crafts ;-)

Where else might we see your work?
www.zippitydoodah.felt.co.nz
Kraftbomb market, last Sunday of the month in Grey Lynn, Auckland
Devonport Craft Market, first Sunday of the month, Auckland
Hastings Art Gallery shop
Auckland Art & Craft Fair, Auckland Art Gallery 24th July
And sometimes you can spot a zippitydoodah being worn on Shortland Street!

How did you get into your craft? I have a Bachelor of Design, my major is in fashion. I have worked as a clothing designer, an interior designer and also as a trims buyer and production manager (gosh that makes me sound old!). Zippitydoodahs came about late one night when I was playing with a zip on the couch (I was going through my ribbon embroidery phase at the time) and it became a flower brooch. People started stopping me in the street to ask where I bought it, and the rest as they say is history.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft? I have a Bachelor of Design and also a Diploma of Textile Arts. I've always been making things from as far back as I can remember. When I was 14 I won my first design award, which only encouraged me to do more!

Is there a philosophy behind your work? I like to reuse things in different ways, and use fabrics/items that are currently unloved or might be considered textile waste/surplus from CMT's etc. I didn't set out to be a greenie but I think there must be a little bit of green inside me as I like the thought that I've created something desirable from another persons landfill and made the consumer see something in a different way!

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes?
Vintage zips are my favourite, the older style ones with cotton dyed tapes and fine metal teeth. The teeth can be quite sparkly when the tapes are bent just the right way. I also enjoy the challenge of trying to match up colours to create the perfect zippitydoodah. Zippitydoodahs are all hand stitched together, so some days I like to rest my eyes and take time out and create things with my sewing machine. I make all my own patterns for my vintage inspired pinnies (aprons) and the various homewares I make. I like fine tuning the patterns until they are just right.

zippitydoodah.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Moon Unit

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 08:00:00 +0000

What do you make?
Little girls reversible pinafores in new and recycled fabrics, earrings, accessories and I occasionally experiment with hats, shorts and the odd tea cosy.

Why would you buy something handmade?
I always try to buy handmade things for pressies. I know how pleasing it is for me when other people buy my things. It is a happy cycle – you get something different and made with love, the maker gets the satisfaction of knowing that people like their goods and a bit of extra pocket money. Perfect!

Where else might we see your work? I am at the Lyttelton Market most Saturdays, shops Pocket, Blackbird and Cows Go Moo also stock my pinafores. You can check out my Facebook page.

How did you get into your craft?
I come from a creative family (not sly and crafty). I have been crafting forever (always in my spare time which seems to decrease as I get older). My craft has evolved from bead and wire jewellery to sewing clothes for small people.

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes? My favourite process is the search for top fabrics that are not too expensive. My favourite tools, probably a pair of pliers I have had since I was about 8 that have stuck by me and are still the best for making jewellery.

Meet the maker: Selma Rainey

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 02:30:00 +0000

What do you make?
Lampwork glass beads. I mostly make jewellery, right now I am concentrating on creating beautiful vintage pieces, containing elegant filigree findings and garden themed jewellery. I have also started incorporating my beads into wee keepsakes that would make wonderful gifts.

Why would you buy something handmade?
Because of its uniqueness and also due to the time spent designing and creating it.

Where else might we see your work?
Ballantynes department store, Christchurch, Lush Design Gallery, Raumati, Kapiti Coast, The Arts Centre, Christchurch.

How did you get into your craft?
Before I started making my own beads I used to buy different types of beads and make jewellery with these. I sold these pieces to people at my workplace, but I always yearned to make something unique, and there was also a demand from my customers (workmates) for something different, so I borrowed a couple of books from the library, bought some equipment, and got going! I am completely self-taught and three years later, I have had my pieces exhibited in shows and am currently selling at exclusive retailers.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
No. I am a plant scientist by trade. I have worked in science, doing research and in the public sector for a number of years. At the moment, I am self-employed as a lampwork and jewellery designer, working from home.

Is there a philosophy behind your work?
Dream of something and make it come to life through your art!
I have two children - a five year old and one year old - both little girls. They keep me very busy, and as much as I love my dears, they sometimes drive me mad! so lampworking is a wonderful creative outlet. Although I enjoy my profession as a scientist, and although it pays extremely well, nothing compares to doing something so creative and fun, plus I get to spend more time with my family.

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes?
Italian glass, a very hot torch, and a really heavy kiln! I love making floral beads and using bright colours.

selma-rainey.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Ballpoint

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 21:30:00 +0000

What do you make?
Illustrated greeting cards, prints, and hopefully soon some screen-printed carry bags!

Why would you buy something handmade?
Quality, originality, and no middle-men!

Where else might we see your work?
You can find it at Portico in Lyttleton, on Felt, and have a browse at www.ballpoint.co.nz

How did you get into your craft?
I just arose out of the desire to do something with my illo's, and to make art more accessible, less elitist.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
I have a certificate in design, and a diploma in photography.

Is there a philosophy behind your work?
Give greeting cards!

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes?
I work in ballpoint pen - I love how simple and everyday it is.

ballpoint.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Wild Ones

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 07:00:00 +0000

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

We ♥ The Cupcake Parlour

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 01:30:00 +0000

What would A Craft Affair be without the sweet treats of The Cupcake Parlour? Craft and cupcakes, they just go together so well.

Although The Cupcake Parlour has featured at previous craft events at Our City, this is the first time we'll have the pleasure of meeting the cupcake connoisseurs behind the Parlour, Kirsten and Annabel, who are happy as anything that A Craft Affair falls on a Sunday this year so they can make it along!

And thanks to The Cupcake Parlour, with every purchase you make at A Craft Affair, you stand a chance to score a sweet spot prize – bet you can't guess what it is!

www.cupcakeparlour.co.nz

Meet the maker: Freedom Creative

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Sun, 04 Jul 2010 07:00:00 +0000

What do you make?
I make Japanese inspired jewellery – mainly necklaces and brooches. I use a variety of bases, apply wonderfully colourful Japanese paper and most are finished with a coat of glossy resin. I have a huge range of Japanese paper so each item is unique and beautiful. I also make Scrabble tile cuff links, pendants and brooches. For A Craft Affair I'll also have some items not usually available from my Felt shop – magnets, Scrabble board coasters and gift cards, which start from as little as $3.

Where else might we see your work?
My Felt Shop: http://www.freedomcreative.co.nz
My Blog: http://www.freedomcreative.blogspot.com

How did you get into your craft?
I grew up in a family that was always making things – whether it be my Dad in his workshop, my Mum who ran her own craft business, or my brother playing music. I was very lucky to have an 'art room' when I was a kid, so always had my own space to escape to and just make a creative mess! I'm not really sure how I started making what I now sell, but I really enjoy it. I really enjoy making a product from start to finish, with no machines, very little tools and a lot of patience and hard work.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
I studied art and design at school, and have a Diploma of Communication Arts and Design, which definately helps when I'm designing products and everything that goes along with the business. I don't have any jewellery making qualifications, but have learnt a lot by trial and error over the few years I've been selling.

Is there a philosophy behind your work?
I just try to create bright and pretty things that will make people happy. Something small to brighten up someone's outfit, or quirky Scrabble tile jewellery that become a talking point.

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes?
Paper, resin, wood, anything but sanding!

freedom.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Rose In Thorns

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 22:00:00 +0000

What do you make?
I make candles from recycled and natural waxes, in contemporary designs. I have just begun making soy candles in teacups which are proving popular.
I also make purses from recycled cassette tape, and soft toys from fabric remnants.

Why would you buy something handmade?
There are lots of reasons to buy handmade. You are supporting local, you can meet the maker, they are often made using sustainable practices and you are often buying something unique.

Where else might we see your work?
Online, in my Felt shop, roseinthorns.felt.co.nz

At theses stores:
Sanderson China & Pottery, 1473 Main North Road, Waikuku
Revamped Gallery, Westend, Kaikoura
Madame Fancy Pants, 217 Cuba St, Wellington

How did you get into your craft?
I first made candles in science class at high school. They I claimed some of Mum's old pots, and started taking over the kitchen. I have been making crafty things since I was a little girl. My mother taught me how to knit, sew, spin and weave among other things.

Is there a philosophy behind your work?
I like to make things from recycled or sustainable sources. I don't like waste, and I don't like putting things is landfill. I find it very satisfying to take something that would normally be thrown out, and to turn it into something beautiful.

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes?
It's hard to pick a favourite, I like variety! I like the process of thinking of a new idea, working out in my head how it might work, and if I'm near a pencil and paper, jotting them down. There are still many ideas I would like to see into fruition.

roseinthorns.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Cloud Nine Creative

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 07:00:00 +0000

What do you make?
At present I'm working on a series of Russian doll drawings, mounted on patterned fabrics and framed. Various styles of jewelry using beads, wire & brass fittings. And a collection of highly detailed ink pen drawings consisting of patterned hearts and various other icons. Each piece is made with great care, attention to detail, and genuine love and passion.

Why would you buy something handmade?
I find it incredibly easy to shop for handmade items because of the amazing variety, uniqueness, exceptional quality and the affordability of certain items. Also, I'd much prefer to support 'the individual' rather than a mass produced market.

Where else might we see your work?
www.cloudninecreative.co.nz

How did you get into your craft?
From a young age I was always interested in art and crafts. Throughout school I studied art and photography and at any opportunity would be creating and designing.
It wasn't until recently when I returned home to NZ after six years of being overseas I decided to follow my passion and really push the 'crafty side of me'.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
I completed a Bachelor of Design in 2002 and have been practicing as a Graphic Designer since. I love doing what I do, and really don't think I would want it any other way.

Is there a philosophy behind your work?
At the moment I guess you could say I'm still experimenting. I'm still trying to find my niche, as this is all still quite new to me. I'm fascinated in intricate detail, patterns, textures, nature, anything vintage, typography and bright colours, so generally my works fall in to one or more of these categories.

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes?
I use a combination of mediums and materials including oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, charcoal, ink, fabric and textured papers.

cloudnine.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Cat Taylor

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 22:00:00 +0000

What do you make?
I have a busy mind and always have a million ideas swirling around my head that I want to try! I currently make a range of things including fabric crayon rolls and sketchbooks for kids, coin purses, pencil cases, linen sachets, key rings, passport covers, upcycled envelopes, cards, fabric covered magnets and bookmarks...

Why would you buy something handmade?
I love the fact that someone has spent time and a passion making the product. I like that everyone has their own story, and that you could have 20 different people making the same product, but they would always be different because everyone has a different perspective. I like to support small enterprise, and think it is important to be thinking about our resources and sustainable practices in this mad consumer driven world!

Where else might we see your work?
http://cattaylor.felt.co.nz/
http://cattaylor.etsy.com
http://cattaylornz.blogspot.com/

How did you get into your craft?
I am a graphic designer by trade, but have mainly corporate clients, so the work can be a little dry.... this was a natural way to have a bit of fun, a creative outlet for me. It means I can get my hands dirty, so to speak. I also have two little girls who are super crafty so I have lots of fun making things with/for them.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
No. I have always made things, and am quite methodical, so if I don't know how to do something, I like to work it out. I learnt to sew as a child, but spent years traveling and hadn't sewed in about 20 years until I started up again last year. I am really enjoying it, and the kids love having me make their clothes (long may that last!)

Is there a philosophy behind your work?
I don't know if I really have a philosophy! I love colour and I like to make things that make people smile. I love to recycle and use old childrens books, vintage playing cards etc that are either incomplete, ripped or drawn on and repurpose into gift cards, envelopes etc.

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes?
I have a real passion for beautiful fabrics and paper. I am quite a tactile person and am drawn in by colour. Currently I am addicted to Japanese fabrics and of course my local hospice warehouse who always have amazing vintage fabrics, old curtains, sheets etc that I hoard for that 'perfect' project!

cattaylor.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Peewee Designs

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 07:00:00 +0000

What do you make?
Soft gangly legged bunnies from recycled and vintage materials, greeting cards, Japanese inspired bangles

Why would you buy something handmade?
So many reasons!
because I hate mass produced objects
because I know how much love and time goes into creating something handmade
because I hate shopping malls
because I want to support the "little people" and the community
because they are just better!

Where else might we see your work?
my day job is designing wedding invitations so some of those designs can be viewed at www.invitationstationery.co.nz

How did you get into your craft?
It is something I have been doing all my life! we had an encyclopedia set when I was little and one of the books was "make and do" full of crafty ideas, and that one book had a lot to do with what I do these days. I still have it on my bookshelf at home.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
I trained as a florist, so certain aspects of that training can be applied to my craft work, for example – what colours work well together and all the design principals...form, shape, texture....

Is there a philosophy behind your work?
I tend to be quite impatient, so don't really plan, I just create, then look back on the finished product and say "next time I will take my time, or do this instead of this...."
I guess my philosophy is to create something that is unique and not mass produced that I would happily buy myself.

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes?
My favourite materials are fabric and paper hence the name of my shop on Felt – cloth paper scissors. It's amazing what you can create with those three things!

peewee.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Ana Aceves

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 20:00:00 +0000

What do you make?
I make screen prints, dioramas and cards.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
Not really, but I took a course on how to do screen printing two years ago.

Is there a philosophy behind your work?
I want the viewer to imagine a history around the images that I create.

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes?
To build the dioramas I work with paper, watercolour, acrylics, bits of magazines... anything that I can find.

aceves.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Moki Designz

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 22:15:00 +0000

What do you make?
We design, screen print and sew bags and cushions, and have introduced organic cotton t-shirts into our range which we also screen print with our designs. All of the screen printing is done by hand using the silk screen printing process, and the sewing is all done on the kitchen table using our trusty 30 year old Bernina.

Why would you buy something handmade?
Because handmade products feel better. They have a little bit of soul to them that mass produced products lack, I think it's because they are made with love and by people who take pride in what they are creating. As an added bonus, buying handmade products supports talented local people, and you can buy something not everyone else has!

Where else might we see your work?
We primarily sell at markets around the South Island and online on Felt. This year we were thrilled to see one of our cushions appear in HomeStyle Magazine, what a buzz!

How did you get into your craft?
We are a pair of creative souls, sisters originally from Central Otago who needed to break out of the nine to five mold, and unleash our artistic natures. After much brainstorming, moments of genius and some blood sweat and tears Moki was born. It was a pretty simple idea in the beginning, after months (years!) of throwing ideas around for a creative partnership we came up with a plan that started with a text message: Lisa to Kara; 'You screen print. I sew. We sell cushions! Genius!' It was after this that things started to get complicated, working out designs was the fun part, stumbling into the unknown world of our own little textile company was the daunting part. Accidentally making a few of the original Moki bags worked out well, you all seem to like them, and being asked at a market if we stock t-shirts? well we do now! Currently Moki is our baby, but it's starting to crawl and hopefully in the not too distant future it will be running at full speed.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
Kara is a qualified graphic designer and is trade qualified in pre-press, working in the printing industry for 13 years. She majored in design and minored in fine art at SIT and has always had a love of print making. Lisa has a science degree which hasn't actually been much use! She later moved to Australia and was accepted into Enmore Design School's diploma in contemporary jewellery, following her now husband back to NZ part way through the course she is now attempting to teach herself the rest of the tricks of the trade! Aside from this we were raised by parents who both have an 'I can make that' attitude, Mum is an accomplished sewer amongst other crafts and Dad is an engineer so we just kind of figure we can make stuff!

Is there a philosophy behind your work?
To provide beautiful and original textile alternatives to mass produced goods, for the funky, stylish and otherwise cool people of the world.

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes?
Kara's favourite tool is her black ink pen for concept drawing and sketching, and her Mac for finishing designs. Lisa's favourite tool is her 30 year old Bernina who is still going strong! (just) and loves tactile elements to design so using fabrics is right up her ally. We both love that Moki is a team effort, it's great fun throwing ideas around together and knowing someone else is backing you really helps. It's amazing to see our ideas come to life on a finished product, and to have control of the product from start to finish. We work as a family drawing on our different strengths, and frequently rope Mum in for advice, an extra pair of hands, or baby sitting duties.

mokidesignz.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Black Swan Designs

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 07:30:00 +0000

What do you make?
Distinctive laser cut jewellery and other vintage inspired pretties.

Why would you buy something handmade?
The more immersed in the craft scene I become the more I find myself buying handmade products over those that are made in China, and even end up feeling a little guilty buying mass produced goods. It's great to know that you're supporting someone local and has a lovely warm fuzzy feeling attached with purchasing!

Where else might we see your work?
I have a bunch of stockists scattered throughout New Zealand, details for which can be found on my website, and of course I sell through felt at www.blackswan.felt.co.nz.

How did you get into your craft?
I've been crafting ever since I can remember. I think that's just what happens when you have a crafty Mum. I work as a graphic designer now, and subsequently spend a lot of time on the computer, which was how I ended up getting into laser cutting. I've had a little taste of traditional jewellery processes, and the level of detail that you can achieve with laser cutting just wouldn't be possible to do by hand, unless you had many spare hours to spare, let alone even considering making more than 1 of each item.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
I have a degree in Art and Design, and spent the vast majority of my 3 years at Polytech playing with all the machinery that was available to the craft students instead of working in the computer suits. I've always preferred more hands on activities, and managed to turn most of my graphic design based projects into something with a crafty flavour.

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes?
My favourite tool would have to be my computer, but it's a bit of a necessary evil. I couldn't do what I do without it. I also relish in time spent mass assembling in front of the fire over the winter months, and getting out and about around the countryside collecting images for future creations. I would like to get into some more traditional crafting methods, but with 2 businesses on the go I suspect that I would need a few more hours in the day to make this possible!

blackswan.felt.co.nz

Meet the maker: Hobby Horses & Second Courses

noreply@blogger.com (Lucy) — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 22:00:00 +0000

What do you make?
All sorts of cute wee things including: adorable felt toys, hair accessories, wooden brooches, bowls, jewellery and clocks made from old records, ear warmers, upcycled cards, bags, cupcakes galore (I don't sell these yet though), secret treasure books, dresses, cassette wallets, tshirts and all sorts of other things!

Why would you buy something handmade?
Because it is a piece of art, and it's unique. I think often people forget the value of art which is a shame. Also you can see the work that has gone into each individual item, and each flaw is a reminder of that. I also think when you buy, you have a say and by buying handmade goods it supports individuals doing what they love as opposed to huge companies that may or may not be using slave/unfair labour. But that's a whole other story!

Where else might we see your work?
www.hobbyhorsesandsecondcourses.blogspot.com and Felt.

How did you get into your craft?
I am an idea-collectomanic! I love trying to make almost anything and sticking to one craft would not keep me satisfied. I have always been creative/arty so I've been making things for as long as I can remember. But got more inspired by seeing so many wondrous blogs and thought 'I should make more things'. Also little Japanese craft books were very inspiring too.

Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
Not quite. I used to work as a graphic designer and have courses related to that, whereas crafts have always been more a hobby. I really want to do a fine arts degree after my current studies are finished though.

Is there a philosophy behind your work?
I like to put 'how to' instructions on my blog to encourage other people that they too can make crafty things, and that you don't have to be really good at sewing or anything to give it a go. So I guess I like to encourage and inspire people with my crafts, and also promote unique handmade gifts over bought. Perhaps sustainability too, as I like to upcycle lots of things, because more and more junk gets made everyday and I like to think that we should use what we already have and make it last instead, by rehashing things. Also having limits helps creativity.

What are your favourite materials, tools and/or processes?
FELT! I keep going back to it, it is so versatile and easy to work with. I really like making up my own processes and learn by doing!

hobbyhorses.felt.co.nz