RJ of Bailey Doesn't Bark

RJ, New York, NY Brand: Bailey Doesn't Bark Blogs: baileydoesntbark.blogspot.com Shop: baileydoesntbark.com

I "met" RJ a couple of months back when she kindly agreed to be on Heart Lab. Her collection has grown quite a bit since then and I'm sure she's a lot busier too - managing her three shops over at baileydoesntbark.etsy.com, supermarket and DaWanda not to mention that the brand new fact + fancy shop in Brooklyn now carries a selection of her creations!

1. How would you describe your style?

Simple + complex: complete opposites, yes: I tend to make either very simple line illustrations or almost overwhelming overload of lines.

2. Your work has such a distinct look. One of the hardest things for artists to do is to stand apart from everyone else. How difficult was it for you to come up with your own style and signature look? What advice can you give aspiring artists struggling to find their own voice and look?

I always struggled with the fact that I didn't have a 'style' I thought that being born with a 'half talent' was useless so I didn't think much about drawing...

I've been drawing ever since I was little. Grew up knowing I could draw, did well in art classes and I was always the one who had to draw on school banners. But I always struggled with the fact that I didn't have a 'style' I thought that being born with a 'half talent' was useless so I didn't think much about drawing - however, I did doodle throughout my entire high school and college years.

I had never drawn like that before, but I knew that I had finally found my 'style'.

I don't know exactly how it came to me but I can tell you when - where - and maybe why? A few years ago I went on a trip to Korea with my mom. It was a wonderful trip, however we did stay longer than necessary. So the last days were pretty much boring. I'd stay in the room and try to figure out what else I could do or where else I could go in a place I'd seen and done everything. Finally, one day decided to head out to town - again - and went to a stationary story. The first thing I saw, literally, was a sketch book that had several motivational quotes on the first page. Call me a cheese ball, but those quotes really inspired me to start drawing again. Back in the room, I sat on the floor, used a chair as my desk and started drawing - lines formed illustrations of the crazy dreams I'd been having for a while. I had never drawn like that before, but I knew that I had finally found my 'style'.

For the ones struggling to find their own voice: I promise that it will come to you. There's no technique/class/instructions that will unfold your unique personal style: It's your motivation/inspiration/your mental library. Draw: always: it's in you.

3. Do you do this full-time? If not, what pays the bills?

I just recently decided to do this full-time. It hasn't been paying my bills, yet.

4. You just recently joined Etsy this past April. There are artists out there who still feel overwhelmed with the whole online selling world and haven't taken the plunge. As a recent convert, can you share some tips that you learned while going through the process yourself? Etsy is wonderful. It gives you an opportunity to show/sell your products in a non-intimidating way. It's very easy to set up and the community is very helpful. I am just starting as well and I've been learning a lot. The resources are there so you have nothing to worry about. Just create an excellent product and present it well. You will be surprised to learn how people's taste differs from your. 1. Organization - something I'm still trying to put in order. (excel spreadsheets, create systems to run your transactions smoothly, etc...) 2. Pricing - do your calculations properly or else you'll lose in the end. 3. Photographs - lighting is essential: most recommend daylight, but my products present better in a well lit still life table - so either or I'd say. 4. Descriptions - short but containing all the essential information. 5. Packaging - I'm a consumer as well and packaging does make an impression and influences your image - don't overdue yourself though. Keep it simple + memorable. 6. Communication - your customer should feel comfortable with the transaction.

5. Who is your idol/current artist-crush?

Idols: Harry Clarke, a beautiful Irish illustrator from the golden age and Kay Nielsen, an equally wonderful Danish illustrator.

6. If you could put your products on the shelves of any shops, which ones would you choose?

I need to do more research on shops... as of now, I do like:
Clio, Paper Boat Boutique and Gallery - I found out about it on you blog, actually. It would be nice!

7. Can you share with us three blogs that you've recently discovered and love?

pikaland, decor8, poppytalk

Thanks again RJ!!

Jacqueline of For the Record

Jacqueline, Singapore Brand: For the Record Blogs: gracierei.blogspot.com Shop: ForTheRecord.etsy.com

Not long ago, Jacqueline was featured on Heart Lab - now it's time to get to know her a little better...

1. How would you describe your style?

I love combining fabrics, creating abstract shapes, testing out different stitches. I guess my style is a mix of graphic shapes, handmade details, quirky features.

>> click here to continue reading the interview

2. Where did you learn your craft and were you always crafty or was the "for the record" line inspired by the birth of your daughter Gracie?

I have always been dabbling in craft, ever since I was a kid. My earliest memory was making tissue dresses for my dolls. For the record- the shop, is definitely something inspired by my daughter. It was initially started as a shop selling customised scrapbook pages, but has since evolved.

3. How do you balance a full-time job (as an architect), 2 kids and a craft business? Can you please share 5 life-balancing tips?

I always answer- I don't get much sleep! To this question. In truth, I have a very supportive family, my parents look after both my daughters while i'm at work. My business partner and husband keeps me sane both at work and home, he's a great handsome dad and is always encouraging about my business. Er, 5 juggling tips?...
1. Make portable crafts- that way, they can travel w you!
2. Set the alarm 1hr before the rest of the household wakes.
3. Just do whatever you have in mind, don't procrastinate.
4. Cook 1 dish meals, less to clean up!
5. Involve the kids in crafting, then you can do get time to craft while entertaining them as well!

4. Who is your idol/current artist-crush?

As you rightly say, there are so many inspiring people out there! Martha Stewart is one of my fav mag and website, not just her alone, but the whole company! Also, Apple as a company has always fascinated and inspired me.

5. What are your 5 Must Do's in Singapore?

1. Eat in a local Hawker Centre. Try all the yummy food!
2. Chill out on the beach.
3. Visit the zoo! Especially if travelling w kids.
4. Go and have tea at the Raffles Hotel, Tiffin room.
5. Go to Arab street for fabrics and nice knacks! Crafter's paradise. :)


6. Do you a crafting/sewing/scrapbooking technique that you've developed or discovered that has made your life easier?

Always prepare little portable kits of different fabrics. They're time saving and really helps me to get into the whole task of combining and matching.

Thanks Jacq!!

Apol Lejano-Massebieau

Apol Lejano-Massebieau, France Brand: La Pomme Blogs: lapommeblogs.blogspot.com Shop: lapomme.etsy.com

Please welcome back Apol, the creative genius behind La Pomme. Her Heart Lab gave us a peek at her design process and now it's time to get to know her a little better...

1. How would you describe your style?

This is a difficult one to answer. I asked some buddies over at Etsy’s European Street Team for help, and they came up with a diverse group of descriptions: naive, cute, elegant, organic, whimsical, and nostalgic, among them. And all of that true, as I do come up with a lot of different stuff. At a recent crafts show I did here in France, people kept saying about my products, C’est poétique! That sounds good to me! So maybe we’ll keep that?

>> click here to continue reading the interview

2. One of the hardest things for artists to do is to stand apart from everyone else. How difficult was it for you to come up with your own style and signature look? What advice can you give aspiring artists struggling to find their own voice and look?

I’m still struggling, to tell you the truth, but I do think I’m getting there. What I think works best for me is to remember what had always moved me since childhood, memories of forms, colors, and patterns, or even just a feeling. That and working a little bit every day. This can be hard, with all the other things we have to do, but I think it is very important to devote daily a little bit of time to our art or our craft; to really make it part of our life.

3. You, like most people enjoy the process of making and crafting and didn't get into it for the sake of "business". But eventually you found yourself having to make the transition from crafter to a businessman. What have you learned so far and what advice can you give others in the same situation?

When I am creating, I am just a craftsperson, and try not to think about if what I am making will sell or not. I do it for the pleasure of it.

I was working for more than a decade for media enterprises, primarily in women’s magazines, and in the latter part of my career as editor-in-chief. A big part of that job was making sure the magazine sold, so I did not really have a very difficult time making the transition to selling. I do, however, make an effort to make the two jobs separate: When I am creating, I am just a craftsperson, and try not to think about if what I am making will sell or not. I do it for the pleasure of it. When I exit from my workroom, that’s when I transform into a businessperson, and begin to ask myself, Now how the heck am I going to sell this thing?!

4. You're just now beginning to offer your products to brick and mortar shops in France and in the US. Any early lessons that you can pass on to our readers looking to do the same?

I am just really beginning to do this, so just one lesson: Make sure that the store you’re offering your products to fit your style.

5. As somebody who was born in the Philippines, I can't help but applaud your efforts in promoting the relatively unknown Filipino visual arts scene in Europe. Can you share some links and/or artist blogs so that Heart Handmade readers can get a little taste of the undiscovered talents from our country?

Two art galleries I would frequently go to when I was living in Manila were The Drawing Room and Boston Gallery. Two artists I love are the couple Elmer Borlongan and Plet Bolipata. We also have a lot of talented comic book artists over there. One recent hit is the wild and wacky Zsazsa Zaturnnah, and I love that you can access the creepy Trese online. They’re not of the visual arts, but I’d really like to add that for what’s happening in the literary scene, I go to the blogs of Ian Casocot (http://www.eatingthesun.blogspot.com/) and Dean Alfar. I can go on and on and on…

6. Congratulations on signing a book deal. Can you give us a sneak peek at what it will be about?

It’s based on a blog (provenciana.blogspot.com) I created when I had just moved to France and needed a venue to express the culture shock I was going through. The subtitle of the blog should give you a fair idea of what the book will be about :

PROBINSIYANA: in Filipino, a female living in the province.
PROVENCIANA: a career-driven Filipina gives up life in third-world-but-happening Philippines to resettle as immigrant housewife in the middle of first-world nowhere known as Provence.

7. There are tons of people out there who are currently doing something that they're not 100% happy doing. Do you remember the exact moment when you made the final decision to leave the world of media and immerse yourself in your writing (and sewing)? Can you walk us through your own thought process and the steps that you took before you were able to leave the world of media? Did you just wake up one day and say You know what? I'm quitting and I'm going to write!, or was it a more deliberate process?

Although I had always wanted to write fiction, I was quite happy doing the career-girl thing, writing and editing for newspapers and magazines, until I was about to hit my 30s. Then I started getting sick from the stress, and had to go to doctors and hospitals all the time, and I didn’t want to die having articles on how to lose weight, save money, or dress up like a Hollywood star be my only contributions to the planet!

I went to an island, rented a basic hut, and just read, wrote, swam, and scuba-dove.

For 10 years, the longest break from work I took was five days, so I decided I deserved a long holiday and took a three-month sabbatical. And I did nothing! I went to an island, rented a basic hut, and just read, wrote, swam, and scuba-dove. Taking myself away from my regular environment, and all the trappings of big-city life, really opened up my mind and my spirit to all the other possibilities available to me. So from there I began to make plans, saved up, and a year and a half later, I quit my big, stressful job and began living what I believe is an infinitely more creative (though maybe less economically rewarding!) life.

Thanks again Apol!!

Miriam of elefante, é a vida!

Miriam, Aveiro, Portugal Brand: elefante, é a vida! Blogs: felty.blogs.sapo.pt Shop: miriam.etsy.com

I'd like to say a big thank you to Miriam for agreeing to be interviewed, especially since she went to the trouble of arranging for a translator to supply her answers in English! Muito obrigada!

I love Miriam's creations - her choice of colors, shapes, materials ... all remind me of a Utopian land far far away.

The fact that my grandfather and my father were tailors was a big influence in my life

>> click here to continue reading the interview

1. How would you describe your style?

I don't think I really have a style, it's hard to define myself... contemporary?!... don't know! It's easier for other people to categorize us... but, in fact, I don't really like being categorized :D

2. How long have you been doing this for and how did it all begin?

It was a natural process! I'm a professional graphic designer and I have always been a very "crafty" person. When I was younger, I used to make gifts for my friends & family and because of that I become very good at working with various craft techniques. I don't know exactly when it all began, but I know I was very little. The fact that my grandfather and my father were tailors was a big influence in my life, as well as being surrounded by seamstresses and sewing machines. I began selling my creations on the web and in various shops in 2004 - thanks to a lot of encouraging friends!

Hmmm to get past crafter's block? I don't know exactly, I do this because I love it, so when I'm not inspired, I simply just stop and make other things... and inspiration naturally comes and goes.

3. What inspires you? How do you get past crafter's block?

I'm inspired by everything around me... my boyfriend, my friends, nature, beach, old houses (I love old houses), retro tiles, a lot of books, ohhh and I love music.

Hmmm to get past crafter's block? I don't know exactly, I do this because I love it, so when I'm not inspired, I simply just stop and make other things... and inspiration naturally comes and goes. There are a lot of days that I can't create anything at all, but I've gotten used to that ... it's also like that in my professional job.

I don't consider myself a mentor... but I guess if I think about it, I have a blog that's read by a lot of people, I have an online shop, my creations are sold at real shops... so I guess it is only natural that other people are inspired by my work, just like I am inspired by others.

4. The handmade community is such a close knit group, I notice that most people are either mentors to aspiring crafters/designers or have mentors who have been in the business for a while and are eager to share their experiences with budding crafters/artists. Do you have a mentor? And are you a mentor yourself?

I tend not to think of things in that way... obviously it's almost impossible not to feel inspired by anyone. Actually, I'm inspired by a lot of people. It's not like me to have a mentor, it's not part of the way that I think...maybe it's due to my education or my profession. I follow a lot of designers and illustrators that I like, I read a lot of blogs and books, I devour magazines, and so on.

Essentially, I listen to a lot of advice from the people I love, so maybe my mentors are my family and friends. I don't consider myself a mentor... but I guess if I think about it, I have a blog that's read by a lot of people, I have an online shop, my creations are sold at real shops... so I guess it is only natural that other people are inspired by my work, just like I am inspired by others.

I prefer to sell in smaller shops where there is a closer relationship with the buyer, where I know the shop owner and can continue to create unique, one-of-a-kind handmade objects on a smaller scale.

5. If you could put your products on the shelves of any 3 stores (international), which ones would you choose?

Ohh this one is really hard... topshop, vinçon, urban outfitters maybe, that is if I was to produce my objects on a massive scale.

But honestly, I prefer to sell in smaller shops where there is a closer relationship with the buyer, where I know the shop owner and can continue to create unique, one-of-a-kind handmade objects on a smaller scale.

6. One of the hardest things for artists to do is to stand apart from everyone else. How did you come up with your measuring tape concept? What advice can you give aspiring artists struggling to find their own voice and look?

The idea of using measuring tapes have been lingering in my head for quite a long time, I think maybe 2 years before I gave it a practical use. A few years ago, I don't remember where exactly, I found some beautiful tape measures with vivid colors and bought them. I began to look at them with a different eye and began collecting them.

I collect a lot of things in my house, things that I find everywhere and anywhere. My mother hated that! Now that I'm in a new home, I do the same ... basically I keep everything that I find graphically pleasing, it was exactly how I came upon the measuring tapes! I just didn't know exactly how to start, nor what to do with them. It was my father that helped me sew my first ever purse in the beginning of 2005. Since then I've found a whole variety of measuring tape with different colors and numbers. I even have a few that I can't get myself to cut... so I keep them!

It's hard to give advice, especially since I don't consider myself an expert crafter =) I think everyone should follow their own inspiration, research a lot, keep creating their own style and, more importantly, be really honest with themselves and others.

7. Do you do this full-time? If not, what pays the bills?

No! I teach design at the University of Aveiro and I'm a graphic designer also. My free time is dedicated to crafts and creating new products.

8. Who is your idol or current craft-crush?

I read a lot of blogs, but actually... I think I don't really have an idol. I love so many crafters, for the materials they use, for the forms of their creations, or just for the amazing imagination they have. I love so many people it would be unfair to mention just one and forget the others =)

9. Can you share any recently discovered blogs and or artists?

Yes I can, but just a few... I love so many people ;)
I love the recent screenprinted fabric from maria joão arnaud, I love kjoo's new bracelets, ox-hill necklaces, it makes me smile the eikumpel´s cute monsieur virgule, I love the funny fruit necklaces of vento na praia the fantastic deditos from fric de mentol, just an example of some of my favourite Portuguese girls...

I've found so many creative people lately... let me think... well, here it goes more of my favourite etsy shops: lealandmabe.etsy.com, daisyjanie.etsy.com, cocoondesigns.etsy.com, syko.etsy.com

Thanks Miriam!!

Megan Price

Megan Price, Norfolk, UK Brand: MrPS Website: mr-ps.co.uk Blog: meganprice.typepad.com, flickr Shop: etsy, allthingsoriginal.com, notonhighstreet.com, threepotatofour.com

Megan is what the entertainment industry might call a triple threat! Not only does she make the most adorable silk screened tote bags, but she also has a line of kitchen tea towels and creates wonderful collages like this one below.

She also just recently got plucked from hundreds of other hopefuls and won the "win a great start for your business" competition over at notonhighstreet.com. Congratulations Megan!!


1. How would you describe your style?

I use the best media I can to get my message across, be it drawing, photo, printmaking or collage.

2 How long have you been doing this and how did it all begin?

Mr.PS was launched in 2004. But in the grand scheme of things I’ve been sitting quietly drawing and making things since I was little. I then went on to study at college and University.

3. How is it working with your husband? Most people advise against working with family. Could you give us some tips on how to make it work?

Well I guess the most important thing is that we both have our own projects on the go. Robert works as an illustrator. When you’ve got loads of ideas and potential solutions buzzing round your head, it’s good to have someone to talk it all over with.


4. What inspires you? How do you get past crafter's block?

I start by researching a nugget of idea, then seeing where the drawing and designing process takes it. Sometimes, a walk to the corner shop is all it takes to jig an idea around your head. Then you can get it down on paper when you get back.

5. What tool(s) can't you live without?

Screens, squegees, sewing machine, sunshine.....

6. Do you do this full-time? If not, what pays the bills?

I do have a part-time job. It can be a bit of a juggle, but it 's good to be with other people sometimes and let your brain work on something else.

7. The handmade community is such a close knit group. I notice that most people are either mentors to aspiring crafters/designers or have mentors who have already been in the business for a while and are eager to share their experiences with budding crafters/artists. Do you have a mentor? And are you a mentor yourself?

My first printing job was for the textile and lighting designer, Helen Rawlinson. Working in her studio really gave me the belief that I too could run my own business. It was a great experience and we are still in touch, checking out what each other are doing. Although she wasn’t strictly a mentor, she has certainly given me good advice.

I’m not a mentor myself, but I do try to be helpful when people ask for my opinion.

8. Who is your idol or current craft-crush?

Umm that’s tricky, there’s so many great makers out there.
I recently came across the Finnish designer Outi Martikainen. I love the way shes makes small artworks out of everyday items and also works with architects to cover major buildings with her delicate imagery.

I really like Abigail Percy’s jewellery, and my most favourite recent etsy purchase is a clutch purse made by Rowena Dugdale.

Customized tea towel available at threepotatofour.com

9. If you could put your products on the shelves of any 3 stores, which ones would you choose?

I’d love to do some design work for somewhere like Habitat - It’d be good to have my imagery on other homeware products. Recently we made a trip to San Francisco - I loved shops like National Product and Doe, and wish I could go again and check out Rare Device. I also love the look of Madam Andre’s shop in Paris - it’s always a thrill to see Monsieur A’s graffiti around other cities.

10. Can you share any of your favorite sources for supplies?

It's great to discover independent retailers when we go away, for instance in France and Italy. I just worry that when I next go back they're not going to be there anymore.

Closer to home, I love going to rummage at Barnett and Lawson for wholesale ribbon and trimmings near Oxford Circus, in London

11. What are your top 3 favorite blogs?

1. 3191
2. Design*Sponge
3. And it’s not really a blog, but I can get really sucked in to Flickr. I love looking at my contacts’ new photos.

Thanks Megan!!

Wiksten Summer Preview

I can't describe how thrilled I am to be previewing Jenny Gordy's latest summer line. As expected, EVERY single piece is oozing with Jenny's personal style that I've come to admire.

Those of you familiar with Wiksten and its huge following know how hard it is to get your hands on one of her creations - and those of you who aren't, well consider yourselves warned! So please make sure you've got her shop wikstenmade.bigcartel.com bookmarked and start training your fingers to click on those "add to cart" buttons as fast as you can... you have 4 days to get your mouse fingers into shape - shop opens this Saturday, May 31st!

>> continue reading Wiksten Summer Preview

Jenny's Wiksten line originated from humble beginnings via a line of bags she was making out of her Greenpoint, Brooklyn apartment back in 2004. The bags were sold at a Kansas City shop named Spool, owned by her friend Cobi Newton. The following year, Jenny began making tops and jackets and the rest, as they say, is history.

>> Wiksten Summer Preview...

1. Tell us about your latest collection.

I basically designed things that I needed in my own wardrobe. I find that my pieces are much more wearable when I design from that perspective, as opposed to when I try to do something innovative. For instance, I’ve been wanting a denim dress because it’s one of the most versatile pieces of clothing a woman can own. It’s as easy and comfortable as wearing jeans but much more chic.

“I basically designed things that I needed in my own wardrobe.”

Since the collection is coming out in the summer, I chose to make a few of the pieces sleeveless. It’s so important to stay cool in the summer because pit stains aren’t sexy! I’ve also reworked some of my old styles because they continue to be popular.



2. What is your design philosophy?

My design philosophy has evolved over time. As I’ve matured I’ve learned to aim for functionality, comfort, and simplicity in my designs. A simple garment allows the wearer to look effortlessly chic and make the style her own by adding accessories. If something is timeless, fits perfectly, and is well-made, a person will wear it over and over again until it falls apart. I would like to make a favorite garment that a person reaches for to wear every time they want to feel good.

“I would like to make a favorite garment that a person reaches for to wear every time they want to feel good.”

3. Where do you find inspiration?

Blogs, internet, friends, my childhood….I don’t really read American fashion magazines much anymore. I’m just really sick of wading through the ads, celebrity interviews, and socialite photos. This year I’ve been more inspired by Japanese magazines, craft books, and shopping websites. I like the clean lines, the muted colors, and the simplicity of the garments I see coming from Japanese sources.

4. Who is your favorite designer?

I don’t really have a favorite designer, but I think Caitlin Mociun is brilliant. I would buy absolutely everything she makes if I could afford it.





5. Are there any up-coming designers that you currently admire?

Mostly I only admire people that I know or people that friends of mine know. I have a tremendous amount of admiration for Martha McQuaid of Uniform Studio. The work she does is endlessly interesting to me, and she’s really paved the way for handmade/independent clothing designers. I would have never opened an Etsy shop if it hadn’t been for her success, and then I would have never found my market. Not only that, but she has been incredibly encouraging and kind to me.

6. Do you have a fashion icon?

This is a tough question. I have a really short attention span, and I tend to not be that interested in celebrities. So I guess I would have to say that French women in general are pretty cool to me. A lot of them seem to have that effortless style that I love.

“I’d just like to dress friends of mine or other designers/artists that I respect. If someone I know that has really good taste wants to wear my clothes, then I am super happy.”

7. Is there anyone you'd like to dress? Which celebrities would you love to see wearing your clothes?

Like I said before, I don’t really care that much about celebrities. I’d just like to dress friends of mine or other designers/artists that I respect. If someone I know that has really good taste wants to wear my clothes, then I am super happy. But I guess I could see someone like Kirsten Dunst or Zooey Deschanel wearing my clothes. I think my pieces fit with their style.

8. Do you do this full-time? If not, what pays the bills?

Do I do this full-time? Yes. what pays the bills? My husband’s student loans. In fact, I’ve had to make some tough business decisions lately which involve either raising my prices or going out of business.

“I work so hard that I don’t have much of a life, and yet I’m still not making any money. Since it’s just me right now, it’s so hard to get everything done.”

9. What's the most challenging thing that you've experienced since starting wiksten?

I work so hard that I don’t have much of a life, and yet I’m still not making any money. Since it’s just me right now, it’s so hard to get everything done. I can only grade so many patterns and make so many garments. It’s very limiting. I’d like to expand and relinquish some control, but I need to pay off my debts before I can think about doing that.

>> Favorite tools & resources

10. Can you share some of your favorite sources for fabrics/notions?

My favorite fabric store is Sarah’s in Lawrence, Kansas. I also shop at Kaplan’s in Kansas City because they carry eco-friendly fabrics made from stuff like bamboo and seaweed. I like to get vintage buttons at estate sales, thrift shops, and antique stores.

11. What sewing machine do you use?

I use a Bernina Activa 210 and a Bernina 1150MDA overlock machine, and I love them.

12. Where did you learn how to sew and design clothing?

I was taught to sew when I was a child by my grandma and my mom. Then I took lessons from a friend’s mom at a local sewing shop. When I was in college I bought a patternmaking book and started studying it. Then in 2003 I moved to New York to go to F.I.T. for patternmaking design, and I also worked for a corporation as a technical designer and fit model.

>> A peek into Jenny's closet...


13. How would you describe your style?

French preppy.

14. What's the most expensive thing in your closet?

I think everyone who reads my blog knows the answer to that! My A.P.C. moccasins. Although, come to think of it, I spent more than that on a wool coat from French Connection.

15. Do you own any "cheap" pieces that have stood the test of time?

Yes, long sleeve t-shirts from Target. I have several in gray and several in black that I wear under everything in the winter. Other than that, no.

“...I’m not into being super trendy. I dress pretty casually, wearing only what makes me feel comfortable. Most of the time the way I dress is pretty boring.”

16. What trend are you loving/hating right now?

Koos has these clog-like shoes that I’ve seen on Japanese websites, but you can’t get them here! It drives me crazy. I think that’s more of a trend in Japan than here. Trend that I hate? I don’t know, hipsters wearing tons of 80’s crap and cowboy boots. Also, flared jeans. I’m not ready for those to come back. I like my skinny and wide leg jeans for now.

17. When did your cardigan obsession start?

It probably started with Kurt Cobain! When I was in junior high I would comb thrift stores for smelly old grandpa cardigans.

18. Are you a slave to fashion? A shopaholic? Or do you prefer to focus on designing and creating for others?

I don’t consider myself a slave to fashion, because I’m not into being super trendy. I dress pretty casually, wearing only what makes me feel comfortable. Most of the time the way I dress is pretty boring. I really do prefer to focus on creating for others. In fact, I spend so much time on that that every now and then I neglect looking good myself!

19. What can we expect to see from you in the future?

I’d like to hire some people and just keep doing what I’m doing, but more of it. More styles, more garments made.

Be sure to set a reminder for this Saturday, Jenny will be opening her shop at wikstenmade.bigcartel.com. Also, be sure to check her blog at wikstenmade.blogspot.com for the latest updates.

Thanks Jenny!!

Photo credits:
Shoes are from habitat and the photos were taken by hannah huffman

Myra Callan

Myra Callan, Oregon, USA Brand: Twigs & Honey Blogs: twigsandhoney.blogspot.com Shop: myrakim.etsy.com, theenglishdept.com

I'm so happy to feature Myra, designer extraordinaire of Twigs & Honey! She creates the most beautiful hair pieces and boutonnieres perfect for weddings, and the best part? - no more worrying about wilting flowers or messing with hairspray to preserve them! Each one is handmade using a variety of materials, including silk flowers, feathers, or even shells for beach-themed weddings.


1. How would you describe your style?

My style is a mixture of seemingly disparate things but generally speaking: nature inspired (in terms of structure and balance) meets whimsical, colliding with modern and vintage styles that can be at times elegant or offbeat. I think the use of colors really influences my style too, and getting the right palette in every piece is really important to me.

2. By the looks of things in your shop - Twigs & Honey is doing quite well. Can you give us some advice on the best way to get noticed? Is it just a matter of luck and good timing or do you have a recipe for success?

Thank you for thinking so!

I think the number one piece of advice for any business is you have to have a good product. Of course it’s not always so easy and I definitely had months of hesitation to start twigs & honey officially because I wasn’t sure if what I liked would be what others would like.


>> continue reading Myra's interview

I think the second crucial part is good customer service. This is pretty easy if you end up doing what you love because you’ll be working with people who are genuinely interested in what you have to offer. How fabulous is that? If you are good to your customers they’ll return the favor and become repeat customers or spread the word to their friends, family, or business relations. I get many repeat customers and referrals, which is always awesome. I’ve even become friends with sweet ladies that started out as clients.

Another piece of advice, depending on your line of work, is to stay fresh and innovative. Keep things changing, but of course make them recognizable as your unique style.

I could go on and on, but I think when it comes down to it, good old fashioned hard work and dedication always pays off. A little bit of luck and timing never hurts either. Before I started twigs & honey, I created hair pieces for myself, family and friends. I tried to do my own thing by not referring to others’ works, creating pieces as I was moved to do so and I think the end result was a line of very different and sometimes quite eclectic pieces of art for your hair. I suppose I was a bit lucky that there happened to be this huge niche my pieces fit right into it.

I calculated that I was working about 100-120 hours of work a week. Seriously! I would wake up at 6am, get ready and go to work until 5pm, eat a quick dinner, and get to work until about 3 to 6am on twigs & honey.

3. How do you find the energy to make such beautiful things while holding a full time day job as a research analyst? How do you juggle a full-time job, a growing business and being a wife? Has the thought of leaving your day job and dedicating all your time to Twigs & Honey crossed your mind?


That is so funny you ask these questions!

I actually left my full time Research Analyst post exactly 2 weeks ago. For a time, I really thought I could hold onto both, but after about a month of starting twigs & honey, I calculated that I was working about 100-120 hours of work a week. Seriously! I would wake up at 6am, get ready and go to work until 5pm, eat a quick dinner, and get to work until about 3 to 6am on twigs & honey. I guess I wasn’t really juggling since I just cut out sleep for 2-3 months as the solution to handling both. I’m also a long-term planner and pretty conservative, so I refused to leave my fulltime job until I knew twigs & honey was viable and had reached a point close to my level as a researcher and held there for an extended amount of time.

I always feel so guilty having to work so much and miss out on “life”. My husband and I have definitely had our long discussions about the business, but the key has been for us to be very open about everything and to be realistic. We squabble from time to time as I miss family outings, but overall, he has been so supportive of my decision to do what I love and I really could not be where I am at with twigs & honey without him. He’s my #1 fan.

4. One of the hardest things for artists to do is to stand apart from everyone else. How difficult was it for you to come up with your own style and signature look? What advice can you give aspiring artists struggling to find their own voice and look?

At times, it was challenging for me to create my own look and it wasn’t to stand apart, but because I’m really critical and a bit of a perfectionist and if something isn’t just right, I junk it. I never received professional training and for my original pieces, literally let my mind run wild. Often, after purchasing and collecting supplies and materials that I think look nice and are of good quality, I throw them in a pile and just dig in and go with the flow. I experiment often and have been known to start and completely stop a project when it’s just not going perfectly.

I’ve heard the saying before that there are no original ideas anymore, which I tend to disagree with. I think there is plenty of room left in the realm of creativity to make unique and new pieces of art and I don’t think that will ever get filled up.

Early in 2007, I made a few pieces for myself for special occasions and I think that is when I really solidified the twigs & honey aesthetic and style. Not to sound too “out there” but most of my original designs are an outpouring of all these ideas and feelings in my head, and I think when you freestyle it, it really becomes “your own style”. I also think that is some of the best advice I can give aspiring artists looking for their own look. I’ve heard the saying before that there are no original ideas anymore, which I tend to disagree with. I think there is plenty of room left in the realm of creativity to make unique and new pieces of art and I don’t think that will ever get filled up. So if you go with your gut and let your inner self and style guide you, I think that is the route to take when trying to find your own voice and look.

5. "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery..." (until it happens to you!) Many of the artists I speak to have had issue with copycats. What do you think is the best way to deal with this type of situation?

Yikes! That is a tough one! When you truly feel in your heart and know that your original idea is “knocked off” for profit, it is really emotionally exhausting and hurtful in so many ways. I tend to be a DIY freak and I know of many people to DIY for budget purposes, so there is definitely a grey area. I think that when people directly copy your original designs bit by bit for profit in an environment that creates direct competition with you, then it’s pretty disrespectful and irresponsible. Your first instinct is to get mad. Beyond that, it’s hard to suggest the best option for recourse. This is definitely one of those, “ask me again in the future” types of questions, as I haven’t yet perfected the best method for dealing with it. I do have some good Samaritan, internet watchdogs out there that let me know when it’s happening, but I am going to see what happens in the future. To be continued!

...much of the joy in doing what I do is the discovery process that leads to the final piece. I think you lose much of this joy when you completely bypass this step and copy someone else’s work.

I do want to say that much of the joy in doing what I do is the discovery process that leads to the final piece. I think you lose much of this joy when you completely bypass this step and copy someone else’s work. If you are considering it or are doing it for profit… don’t.

6. Who is your idol or current artist-crush?

How do I narrow it down?! I’m going to list a few because otherwise, this whole interview would be a list of my obsessions. I love Ann Wood Handmade (doesn’t everyone?), Leanimal, Elizabeth Dye, Dust Furniture, Fernanimals, Holly Stalder, Flufflife, and so many more. I have to stop there but just know that the list is long!

7. Can you share with us a couple of blogs or artists that you've recently discovered and love?

A blog that I was told about recently: Posie Gets Cozy (which it appears everyone loves)
An artist I recently discovered and love: Dust Furniture (not love… obsessed)

8. Your wedding on the park looked absolutely beautiful. As we all know, wedding planning can be a "little" stressful. Can you give our bride-to-be readers 5 life-saving tips that you and Matt learned from planning your own wedding.

1. SLEEP… and EAT
2. Make a budget and stick to it
3. Don’t expect that “the most important” day of your life in your eyes is as important to everyone else (i.e. Expect that something will go wrong and it’s not the end of the world if something does and when it does, don’t rip off someone’s head if they don’t get something completely perfect).
4. Tell guests where the restroom is at your venue. ;)
5. For outdoor weddings, be smarter than I was and do not put chocolates and desserts in a place exposed to sunlight. It will be one big icky mess.

Thanks Myra!!

*Wedding photo courtesy of Paul Rich Studio

Anna Laura

Anna Laura, Melbourne, Australia Site: annalaura.com.au Blogs: annalauraart.blogspot.com + Flickr + myspace Shop: annalaura.etsy.com + DaWanda

I have to admit that it was Anna's lovely badge ladies that first caught my eye, but as I started working on her feature I soon discovered her geniosity extends further into her more traditional art work and collages...

>> continue reading Anna Laura's interview

1. How would you describe your style?

Eclectic. I have a lot of different styles happening. I like being able to do different things and mix it up a bit. I completed a BFA in Painting and Drawing, so I have fine art training, but I love to do stuff which is design based as well. Then there are the badge ladies with a different style to them also. They all link together and I think the different styles work with one another but finding words to describe them all is hard.

Sometimes when you look at other designer’s work you get overwhelmed by what is out there and wonder if your own stuff is good enough. I find it helps to work on something that you know how to do well and is a bit automatic. That way you feel like you’re accomplishing something so you don’t feel worse about not working.

2. What inspires you? How do you get past crafter's block?

When I get it I know, I often feel sick as well, so it should be an illness diagnosed by a doctor. Taking a break is a good start. Sometimes when you look at other designer’s work you get overwhelmed by what is out there and wonder if your own stuff is good enough. I find it helps to work on something that you know how to do well and is a bit automatic. That way you feel like you’re accomplishing something so you don’t feel worse about not working. Watching some television, a nice pot of tea and some badge ladies to stitch up always makes me feel better.


3. What tool(s) can't you live without?

Needles, thread, sharp scissors, sewing machine, silkscreen, ink, small squeegee, computer, Photoshop. Just to name a few things. The list goes on and on.

4. You've sold over 175 items via Etsy and your goods are stocked in multiple shops - can you give us some advice on the best way to get noticed. Is it just a matter of luck and good timing or do you have a recipe for success?

Just keep doing what you’re doing. Keep posting blogs, updating your websites like flickr and myspace. Get in contact with other people, go out and meet them and email them and make friends and talk shop to people. Make things well, make different things and get creative and buy from other people to help keep the creative marketplace going. Buy handmade gifts for people and tell people about what you do so they know and understand that there is a marketplace out there making beautiful products.

5. Can you share any of your favorite sources for supplies?

I love going to the opshop (thrift stores) because it is an unknown, you don’t know what you will find and it could be the best thing ever, or you could come home with nothing. They are my favourite.


6. One of the hardest things for artists to do is to stand apart from everyone else. How long did it take you to come up with your own style and signature look? What advice can you give aspiring artists struggling to find their own voice and look?

I think everyone has their own look when they start, although aspects might be similar to other designers they still have something about them that sets them apart. I think my style has developed a lot since I have been working in 2006. When I first started I had been pretty dormant with my creativity, so the things I produced were maybe a little more basic and it has developed over time.

7. Who is your idol/current artist-crush?

Oh, I thought you were going to say who is my current boy crush, an I was going to say Commander Chakotay from Star Trek and get totally nerdy on you. But now that I have my nerdyness out there I can answer the question correctly. Lara Cameron and Ashley G are two I really like, not only are they both super talented, but also they are also really friendly and down to earth.

8. What can we expect to see from you in the future?

More artworks. I really want to expand that part of what I do and have an exhibition. I’ve got some ideas for some larger artworks I want to try involving screen-printing and painting, but not in the conventional way. Lots of experimenting is what keeps me happy.

Thanks Anna!!

Claire Platt

Claire Platt, London, UK Brand: xfreshbatteryx Blogs: xfreshbatteryx.livejournal.com + Flickr Shop: xfreshbatteryx.etsy.com + The Shiny Squirrel

Claire is no stranger to Heart Handmade, she graciously invited us to explore her unbelievable skills with needles and floss on Heart Lab last month. So now it's time we get to know her a little better...

“You’re going to hand-sew an anatomical drawing? That’s insane! It will take far too long it takes you ages drawing them!” and that did it for me really, I thought it’s a little odd but I think it’ll work.

>> continue reading Claire Platt's interview

1. How did you come up with the name xfreshbatteryx?

I actually cannot remember why I thought to carry it over to be my online art-alias as it’s actually my screenname for a No Doubt Fan Forum! I’m a huge fan and it’s a lyric from one of my favourite songs ‘New’ “Like a fresh battery I’m energised by you” but I’m just attached to that expression now! I love it!

2. I know that you were part of a show last summer. Has your work been recently shown in any galleries? What advice could you give aspiring artists on the best way to get noticed and invited to be part of a gallery exhibition?

Unfortunately it hasn’t! Although I have been involved with a few things on the internet recently, The Shiny Squirrel for one, which is a wonderful site that promotes and sells work by up and coming artists and designers! I was also part of poppytalk's greenpop!


GET ONLINE: I would say the best way to try and get noticed is to have a blog! As mine brought me many opportunities.


NETWORK: Also just put yourself forward for anything and everything. Write to galleries that you’d like to show at, contact blogs who might feature your work! It also helps to have a good network of other artists to talk to be it online or offline. One friend in particular - Camilla Stacey has been really good for me, thanks to her flickr I got a bit more attention and she invited me to be part of a group show. If you’re a student/ex-student I’d recommend grouping together with some classmates and trying to get some kind of group together for exhibiting as two heads are better than one!

3. How did you come up with the concept of embroidering organs and planes and displaying them in embroidery hoops?

Oddly my mother asked me this exact same question last night and I think the answer is somewhat long-winded, so this is my best attempt at condensing it…

The organs as a subject matter came first. I was given a selection of texts for a project at University and our work had to stem from that. I selected a text called ‘a brief reflection on test tubes’ that discussed the human body in parts and I thought ah-ha! Organs! That led to around 6 months of work that was just drawings with slightly more experimental/texture based embroidery.

In my final year of university I decide to keep on the same theme of Organs but became more interested in anatomical drawings and literally sewing them. I think the thing that did it for me was when a housemate said in response to me drawing one “You’re going to hand-sew an anatomical drawing? That’s insane! It will take far too long it takes you ages drawing them!” and that did it for me really, I thought it’s a little odd but I think it’ll work. The frames were literally some that I had lying around from a bunch of sewing stuff I inherited from my great-grandmother and I was just using them as embroidery hoops! Though I swiftly decided I had to find more of these things and that my work had to stay in them.

Overall I think it started as me trying to cram everything I’d ever considered doing into one project. I like frames, a touch of humour, brushing on feminism, I like old-fashioned silhouettes, I like bright colours, beads, sequins, organs and most of all I love sewing.

The aircraft’s are a new inspiration. I moved back to my parents after my studies and we live fairly close to Biggin Hill Airport, which is a airport for local aircraft use. I went up there and had a look one day and then went and looked up military aircraft drawings and recognition guides and found the drawings have them same technicality that anatomical one do. I guess I have a bit of a soft spot for scientific drawings…
4. How long have you been doing this for and how did it all begin?

When I started college I didn’t really know what to take… so I picked art and graphics! I’ve been studying art as a student for the last 6 years (college and university combined!) I graduated University in June 2007 so I suppose I’ve been doing what I’m currently doing for around eight months. Everything is a little new to me, I feel a bit like a fresher. Also my studying left me out of pocket so I juggle working full-time with continuing my practise!

5. What tool(s) can't you live without?

Lots of different needles and threads, sequins, embroidery hoops (particularly flexi-hoops), Muji pens and those dressmakers pins with the coloured bobbles on top! I even have some with hearts on! They are awesome!

6. If you had to choose one piece, what would be your all-time favourite and why?

Ohhh. That’s really difficult. I’m really rather partial to my ‘golden child’ piece I suppose. I’ve even re-made it a few different ways, with a pink satin for the shiny squirrel and in a square frame for the Abracadabra show. I imagine it’s mostly to do with it being so shiny with all the metallic thread and gold sequins…

7. Who is your idol/current craft-crush?

I have a few actually. Emily Barletta, Suzanne Carlsen, Claire Coles. I was also particularly excited this month as Lizzie Finn’s website was updated, she does amazing mainstream/advertising embroidery type pieces.


8. What are the first 3 blogs that you read every day?

Poppytalk, It’s my home page, so it’s the first thing I see when I start the Internet!

Mochimochi Blog - Amazing free knitting patterns!

ICiNG - Because it’s fun!

And of course heart handmade!

9. What can we expect to see from you and xfreshbatteryx in the future?

Hopefully a lot more aircraft pieces and hopefully some kind of exhibition involving them. I’ve also been making some little aircraft brooches! Also come October I’m very excited as I’ve been accepted on to an MA course in Textiles, so hopefully my work will be progressing with some more technical knowledge and hopefully the opportunity to mix some printing techniques with my embroidery!

Don't forget to check out Claire's blog and this blog + Flickr gallery + shops at xfreshbatteryx.etsy.com and at The Shiny Squirrel.

Thanks Claire!!