Categories
Design Homewares Styling

Etsy reveals top design trends for 2019

“We’re officially declaring 2019 the year of being real and Etsy sellers are leading the charge with all-natural products, a focus on sustainability, and decor cues sourced straight from Mother Earth,” says Etsy trend expert Dayna Isom Johnson. Reflective of the earthy trend, Etsy has identified six burgeoning style trends ranging from pressed flowers to burnt orange, 1970’s style and even sloths (and no, I’m not kidding!).

Burnt orange
Etsy burnt orange
Not unlike the 2019 Pantone Colour of the Year ‘Living Coral,’ burnt orange is Etsy’s hue of choice for the year ahead. “We’re calling it now – burnt orange is about to be everywhere. I’m excited to see this earthy hue take over our homes and outfits,” says Dayna. From a burnt orange throw or cushion to terracotta pots and rust-coloured paint, expect to see plenty of this hue in the homewares space.

burnt orange pot
Zoa Concept natural soy candle in cement vase with copper & black line, $35.89

Maximalism
Maximalism
It’s fair to say that minimalism has had a long run in the design space which is perhaps why Etsy is predicting the return of maximalism in 2019. “Maximalism is the moment we’ve been secretly waiting for. Forget settling for a single statement piece or wild accent wall – all your favourite colours, patterns, and prints are now on the table,” says Dayna. With virtually no rules and an embrace of mix and match style, more truly means more in 2019!

maximalist wallpaper - etsy
This Floral Coloray Sumatra Paradise wallpaper is divine!

Preserved petals
preserved petals
2019 will see the return of pressed flowers but presented in a fresh, modern way. “Collections of flowers and herbs are the perfect way to bring the outdoors in whatever the season,” says Dayna. Think sprigs of baby’s breath pressed between glass sheets or a bouquet in a bottle, instead of sprouting out the top. Again, it’s not a new idea but the execution is.

Etsy flowers in a bottle
Sullis Garden Japanese style herbarium with message, from $39

South-Western styles
South-western style
“I’m predicting that south-western motifs will go hand-in-hand with next year’s more grounded outlook. Last year’s succulent craze hinted at this cowgirl-chic trend, but in 2019 we’re taking it to the next level. Etsy sellers will be bringing back desert illustrations and bold woven textiles for an all-out south-western resurgence,” says Dayna. The look is characterised by rugged texture and a focus on natural materials such as leather and clay.

Antwerp quilt
Vacilando Quilting Antwerp Quilt, $358.11

Sloths
sloths
The sloth came into my recent consciousness when I saw one in the children’s movie Zootopia (who could forget that scene?) and the sloth really does embody the ‘slowing down’/mindfulness mantra that has been prevalent of late. “Much like their own unhurried movements, sloths have slowly been on the rise for a few years now, but next year, they’re poised to pick up speed. Shoppers and Etsy sellers alike have gravitated to the laid-back demeanour of the sloth, a real-life embodiment of the less-hurried lifestyle many of us strive for every day,” says Dayna. I predict sloth cushions and prints will appear in plenty of children’s rooms.

Carolina Buzio 'Happy Sloth' medium art print, $19
Carolina Buzio ‘Happy Sloth’ medium art print, $19

1970’s and 1990’s style
seventies and nineties style
With an earthy aesthetic the order of the year, it makes sense that 1970’s style will continue its reign. “We’re excited to welcome a fresh crop of trends to the scene in 2019 but we don’t have to say goodbye to all of our old favourites just yet,” says Dayna. 70’s and 90’s-influenced styles including terrazzo finishes, rattan and llama motifs will continue to flourish.

terrazzo bowl
Night Shift Ceramics modern terrazzo tray, $42.97

Shop the trends online | 2019’s best planners

Categories
Designers Interviews

Dolls’ house interiors so good they’ll make you look twice!

Mel Sebastian has always dabbled in art, and was busy running her own art studio – that was until 3.5 years ago, when she witnessed her stepfather building a doll house for his granddaughter. His creation inspired her to create her first miniature room – and she has been creating ever since.

Rather than building full doll houses, Mel focuses on standalone boxes that display a single room.

“My aim is to capture the vignette of one room,” she says. “Other than the fact that it is a lot less time consuming than creating a whole house, it is a great way of designing a space without costing a bomb. Clients also have the freedom to mix and match different rooms this way.”

All of the décor items featured in Mel’s miniature rooms are handmade from scratch.

“I use anything that encapsulates the particular mood I am after. From industrial material recyclers to op shops and fabric stores, I can spend hours sourcing the perfect materials. A broken cell phone can hold treasures once you open it up. Nothing is too precious – I have been known to sacrifice vintage skirts to upholster couches.

“I love to use wood, concrete, steel and textiles – materials that not only look, but feel authentic.”

Her inspiration comes from many things, fuelled by her obsession for creating beautiful spaces.

“I am a great consumer of interior design images, and am constantly trawling through Pinterest and online publications. Sometimes, the inspiration comes from the materials themselves, such as the timbers prevalent in Scandinavian design. Sometimes it is a certain technique that will spark the excitement, like ‘Shou Sugi Ban’, the ancient Japanese art of charring wood.”

Coming from an art background, creating miniature rooms has not been without its challenges.

“The whole process is hugely time consuming, because a lot of it is about sourcing the actual materials. Then there is patience – waiting for glue to dry, for example – and the ability to think outside the box (pardon the pun). There have been a lot of YouTube videos along the way.

“It’s very similar to what interior designers do, just on a smaller scale. And scale is extremely important to create the illusion. There have been times where customers have bought off my Etsy shop, thinking it was the real thing.”

Hailing from Brisbane’s west, the majority of Mel’s clients aren’t children, but rather adult collectors.

“Within every person there is a child, engrossed in creating their own miniature décor space. The doll house concept has undergone a major revival. My room boxes are popular with offshore collectors who buy for their own enjoyment. I have even been approached by clients who want to capture a space they are renovating, to get an idea of how to furnish the real deal.”

Her favourite project so far has been her most recent – a series of replicas of some notable designers’ work (she can’t give too much away yet), due for a launch at the upcoming London Design Festival.

“They found me through Facebook, and the challenge was to create 60 exact replicas in less than 30 days, and have them approved by the actual designers. I definitely feel like a bit of a trailblazer. Working in modern miniatures is a specialist niche discipline.”

Follow Mad Missy Minis on Instagram, Facebook, or visit the Etsy store.

If you loved this story, check out more on the modern dollhouse trend here.

Categories
Furniture Homewares

Jen’s lust list 31.01.17

I’m generally more of a plain linen girl but I could be persuaded to change for this Bluebellgray quilt set. The Scottish brand, which I’ve long been a fan of, is now available in Australia at Myer. Floral and colour fans, gets amongst it!

On the other end of the spectrum, the popular SMEG small appliances range (entry level SMEG as I like to call it!) are now available in white due to popular demand! I’m guessing that’s because people like me couldn’t decide which of the gorgeous pastel hues to commit to. Fret no more! From $179 for the 2-slice toaster, from all good department stores.

I discovered artist Annie Everingham on Instagram this week (don’t you love Insta for that?!) via those stylish folks at Fenton & Fenton (who stock her work). I fell for this limited edition print, An Abstraction of Patchwork Terrain ($699). Isn’t it gorgeous? Annie lives in Newcastle, NSW.

Pottery Barn Kids have some lovely new things in for kid’s rooms! How cute is this Ceramic Bunny Mirror ($129) which will give your little one a bunny nose whenever they stand in front of it?! Plus there are hooks to keep precious jewels and hairbands off the floor.

And I know Sebastian would love this Organic Mason Dino Friends Sheet Set, from $99 (not that he has a big boy bed for them yet). I’m a big fan of anything which is so cute that kids will like it, but not still erring on the muted side so mum will too. What do you mean their rooms should be all about them?!

I must be in a really colourful mood this week, eh?! How gorgeous is this trinket box ($55) from Marks & Spencer? Did you know they ship free to Australia for orders over $100? Yes, homewares as well as fashion! I have a thing for fancy boxes like this. How better to keep/hide all those little bits and pieces together? Plus, gold.

This new brass-look side table from Kmart is a snip at $29! They have a whole load of new furniture and homewares dropping at the end of this week which are bound to sell out fast.

Last but not least, I can always find something to add to my basket on Etsy! This magnolia wall hanging is great for so many reasons. It’s lightweight (great for renters who can’t knock holes in walls), you don’t need to pay for framing or worry about heavy frames falling off the wall (wouldn’t it be lovely in a little girl’s nursery?), it’s gorgeous, botanical and timeless. And who doesn’t love magnolias? $75 from My Bearded Pigeon via Etsy. There are other designs too, including cacti, which are definitely having a moment!

I’ll be back with more favourite finds next Tuesday!

Categories
Art Interviews

Maryanne Moodie: An Aussie textile artist living in New York

Based out of Brooklyn, New York, Maryanne Moodie is an Australian textile artist, educator and author who has a particular talent for weaving. After studying at Melbourne University and teaching for ten years, Maryanne found her artistic calling while on maternity leave, and now runs a successful weaving business and hosts worldwide workshops too.

Maryanne Moodie with one of her weavings

“I was a teacher for ten years, mostly art, when I fell pregnant. I found a loom when I was cleaning out the storeroom for the teacher replacing me on maternity leave. I thought it would keep my hands busy whilst awaiting the babe. I was instantly hooked. I taught myself to weave and after a year or so began to teach workshops to others,” says Maryanne who loves playing with colour, form and texture to create renewed interest in an ancient art.

Maryanne’s work – I love her use of metallics thread!

But it was a move to New York, in 2012, that culminated in her transition to full-time weaver and the opening of the Maryanne Moodie studio.  “My husband got a job with Etsy as a graphic designer. We moved for his job, but I quickly found opportunities to grow my own business and make connections in the artistic community of Brooklyn too,” says Maryanne who is currently immersed in the textile art communities in both New York and Australia and enjoys sharing her craft through workshop settings. Maryanne also wrote a weaving book in 2016 titled On the Loom: A Modern Weaver’s Guide.

Maryanne’s book

And as for the current fervour for weaving, Maryanne explains that the craft goes well beyond wall hangings. “Weaving doesn’t have to be hung on a wall. You can apply it to rugs, cushions, lampshades, any fabrics really! I think everything has cycles, and maybe hangings might be having their time in the sun, but weaving will continue through other manifestations,” says Maryanne.

Maryanne teaching at a workshop

And for those looking to get a leg up in the creative industries, Etsy Resolution is back this year with Maryanne one of its mentors. A free three-week online boot camp mentored and led by three successful Australian makers and small business owners, the 2017 program is a fabulous free resource for aspiring creatives. And as a mentor, Maryanne will be sharing her first-hand experience in building a creative business through the famed online marketplace.

The artist at work

“Etsy has been great for me. It’s been super easy to list classes, tools and products. I like how visually appealing it is too,” says Maryanne who not only imparts technical knowledge but offers general mentoring too. “I wouldn’t advise selling anything for the first year. Concentrate on building your brand and community awareness of what you are about. Create a strong focus and reach out to others in your industry and make connections,” says Maryanne.

Shop Maryanne’s workshops and wares online.
Registrations for Etsy Resolution close this Friday 27 January.

Photography: Paul Vincent & Julia Stotz

Categories
Interviews Kids Rooms

Interview: The woman passionate about creating mini interiors

When Julia Valka came across a few dolls house Instagram pages 18 months ago, it inspired her to renovate a dolls house for her daughter, Emily. Little did she know it would bring back an almost forgotten childhood dream of having one of her own. “Having grown up in a poor Eastern European country we barely had bread to put on the table, let alone toys and other pretty things.” And she now spends her spare time creating miniature creations for other people’s dolls houses.

“This is definitely a passion,” she says. “I love creating little interiors and challenge myself to make mini pieces. From the very beginning, I had a lot of interest in the pieces I make and that is how Mini Modern Designs was born. I love sharing my mini creations with those who want to have them in their dolls houses.”

Making mini furniture and homewares can take anywhere from 10 minutes to a few days! “It can also take days or weeks until I find the right bits and pieces I need in order to make something new. I like working with wood and making mini versions of real size pieces. It is a learning process and imagination plays a very important.”

Not surprisingly, interior styling on a real life scale has always been an interest of Julia’s too. “Me and my little family are still to build our dream home but we do love the house we live in at the moment. It is modern and stylish. However creating the perfect space the way I want it is not a priority at the moment. I have two energetic children (five and three years old) who often transform the house into a playroom! I have learnt to enjoy a messy, happy house!”

There’s a growing community of miniaturists and dolls house fans in Australia and around the world. “Creating modern pieces for dolls houses has attracted a lot people from mums to designers to collectors and shop owners. I am working on a system to manage my time and orders in a much better way. I want to always give the best in satisfying my customers. Most of them know that I make the pieces myself in the little time I have while my children are at daycare or late at night, and they are very understanding.”

Her best selling pieces include a mini camera (inspired by the wooden toy camera made by Behind The Trees), a fiddle leaf fig (yes, these house plants are even trendy in dolls houses!), beds, faux marble coffee tables and Tasmanian oak vanities. Dolls house decor has come a really long way!

“I have a big list of things I want to make that I haven’t even attempted yet. I am patient though in building up some skills in order to be able to make them. There are also pieces that I am happy to buy from other mini makers if they already have what I want. I think it is important to show each other support with our small businesses.”

Her biggest fan though is husband Christian, a set builder and carpenter. “He is the one I share my ideas with and the one I seek advice from. I have learned a lot from him and I feel very lucky to have him by my side.

Julia, husband Christian and children Daniel and Emily

Julia, 37, is currently finalising the details of a Modular Dolls House, her own creation which will be available to purchase in March. “I have designed this dolls house over the last six months and I think it is such a great idea as it gives people the possibility to have their input in creating the dolls house they want. The modulars give endless possibilities to change the look of the house in a matter of seconds.

“Also, my customers will be able to purchase one room box at a time and build at their own pace. They will come with the choice of being stacked on the floor or hung on the wall so great for large or small spaces. It will definitely enhance children’s creativity and confidence by giving them the freedom to build a dolls house using their own imagination.”

Follow Mini Modern Designs on Instagram or visit the Etsy store to buy pieces.

Categories
Interiors Addict

Gift guide: unique pieces for a good cause with Etsy

This year, thanks to Etsy, you can do all your gift buying with ease — and for a good cause! They’ve teamed up with Plan International on a charity initiative called Make For Good (check out #makeforgood on your Instagram!).

Inspired by Plan’s Because I Am A Girl campaign, its mission is to empower girls by helping to create brighter futures around the world. Dozens of Australian Etsy sellers have created bespoke products that coincide with the theme of the campaign, with 20% of proceeds going to charity. Last year, they raised over $30,000 internationally and this year they plan to beat that – with our help. The fight for girls around the world is a cause everyone can get behind, so let’s get to shopping!

hangingvase

Hanging Vase by Kirraleeandco  Being an outdoorsy girl myself, I am a sucker for greenery in the house. Made of reclaimed wood and ceramic, this vase will brighten up the wall of any dreary office space!

resinvase

Walking on Sunshine Handmade Resin Vase by ResinatingByMarina  In a gorgeous sunny yellow, this resin vase will provide the perfect pop of colour to any room. With its exceptional design, people may not even notice the flowers within!

floralcalendar

2017 Calendar by CarlaEllisCreative  We all have that friend that could really use a calendar to get them organised (hint: if you don’t have that friend, it may be you!). This dainty and beautiful floral piece is sure to do the trick.

cactusprint

Brighter Futures Cactus Print by Meyouandjack  It seems lately I can’t walk into a store without finding something cactus printed – and I love it! This bright and colourful piece is perfect for any trendy household.

tealighthodler

Ceramic Tea Light Holder by Maribray  For the candle lover in your life, consider this gorgeous light holder with gold accents.

fruitplates

Fruit Slice Mini Clay Dish by Nuviart  I am in love with these bright, fruit themed plates! They are absolutely perfect for any upcoming summer barbecue. They come in pineapple, watermelon and passionfruit.

abstractink

Gold, Yellow and Purple Abstract Ink Painting by ElizabethEllenor  Your art-obsessed friend is sure to swoon over this abstract piece. With its beautiful hues, it will definitely be a gift to be remembered.

moon

Letterpress Full Moon by Fluidinkletterpress  If you’re like me and love anything cosmic, then you’ve found the perfect piece (in fact, I’ve already added it to my cart!). The gold dusting creates a simple and elegant statement for your home.

bluebirddrawing

Bluebird Pencil Drawing by CarmenHuiArt  Last but certainly not least, this bluebird pencil drawing is the perfect sweet addition to any room.

With all these products and more on Etsy, you’re sure to find something to tick off your gift list. The best part is, you can rest easy knowing your cash is going towards a tremendously important cause.

Learn more about Because I Am A Girl.

Categories
Expert Tips Homewares Styling

DIY: Make your own floating rope table

With a background as a girl scout, Etsy seller Kate Gordes, of Scout Gathers, is skilled in the art of knotwork. From macramé hanging planters to wall hangings and bowls, her gorgeous handmade wares are made using NSW cotton rope and this week, lucky readers, she is sharing a fabulous DIY with you.

Finished shot 3 - Scout Gathers DIY

Tools & materials required

  • Scissors
  • Circular wooden chopping board (or similar)
  • Fabric dye for natural fabrics
  • Plastic bucket
  • 2 x 4 metre length 8mm cotton rope (found in any DIY store)
  • 1 x 1 metre length 8mm cotton rope (found in any DIY store)
  • Natural coloured yarn

1 - materials needed - Scout Gathers DIY

Getting started

2 - Scout Gathers DIY

  • Gather the two pieces of 4 metre rope and halve them to make a loop.
  • Cut 1 metre of yarn.
  • Form a loose loop with the yarn over the top of your looped rope; the longest length should be on the right hand side.
  • Wind the yarn from the right clockwise and upwards.
  • When you have wound the yarn to the top (or run out of length!), poke the end through the loop.
  • Pull the bottom yarn end until the loop has been pulled down about half way into the noose. To tighten, pull on both loose ends at the same time.

The tassel
3 - Scout Gathers DIY

Measure 1.5 metre down the rope and create another noose knot. This will form the base of your floating shelf.

4 - Scout Gathers DIY

Cut your rope 15cm from the bottom of your noose knot. This will become the tassel. Start to fray the end of the cotton rope to create your gorgeous tassel.

The Base

5 - Scout Gathers DIY

Spread the four pieces of rope out and place the wooden chopping board over your tassel.

7 - Scout Gathers DIY

  • Gather the 1 metre of (8mm) spare rope and place it around the chopping board.
  • Cut 4 small lengths from the yarn.
  • Tie each piece of yarn with a tight double knot to the 1 metre rope and the 4 pieces of rope that have been spread out.
  • Fray the ends of the 1 metre rope to finish it off. (This rope is to secure the pom poms.)

The pom poms

9 - Scout Gathers DIY

  • Wrap the yarn around the fork approximately 50 times. Cut the yarn from the ball.
  • Thread a piece of yarn through the middle of the fork and tie a tight double knot.
  • Slide the yarn from the fork and cut the looped yarn on either side.
  • Create 3 more pom poms.
  • Secure the 4 pom poms to the 1 metre rope around the chopping board.

Dip-­dying the tassel

8 - Scout Gathers DIY

  • Using a glass bowl or container mix up your yellow dye according to the instructions on the packet. Make sure you wear gloves and wear clothing that you don’t mind getting splashes of dye on.
  • Sit the tassel half way into the dye. The dye will start to creep up the tassel.
  • Let it sit in the dye for a half an hour.
  • Rinse it out with hot water, until the water runs clear.
  • Lay flat to dry.Finished shot 2 - Scout Gathers DIY

Photography: Kate Gordes, Scout Gathers

Check out the Scout Gathers Etsy shop here.

Annual Etsy Craft Party

The global Etsy Craft Party event returns this year from Friday 17 June until Sunday 19 June. From cake baking to flower arranging and card creating, the event sees keen crafters from around Australia and across the globe unite and share their skills. In addition to Etsy seller-hosted events in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Canberra, Hobart and Adelaide, you can host your own craft party too.

“Etsy Craft Party is all about sparking creativity and letting those sparks fly. We want to encourage people all around Australia to have some fun and make some creative messes — and to make them with friends!” says Helen Souness, Etsy managing director for Australia and Asia.

To find out more about the event, discover an event near you or register to host your own, click here.

Categories
Competitions

Calling all creatives – the 2016 Etsy Awards are open!

It’s no secret that we’re mad fans of Etsy. Is there anything you can’t source from there? From interior items to jewellery and everything in between, we love how directly it connects consumers with creatives.

Running for its third year in Australia and New Zealand, the Etsy Awards look to showcase and highlight the work of the many creatives that make the online marketplace the wonderful resource that it is.

EtsyDesignAwards_FlirtingWithYellow

2015 Etsy Design Award winner, Flirting with Yellow

From now until April 29, new and established Etsy sellers from across Australia and New Zealand can enter their work in the five categories below.

  • Art, Illustration & Paper Design
  • Home & Living
  • Fashion & Accessories
  • Lasting World (for those using environmentally and socially responsible practices)
  • New Talent (Etsy shop opened within the last 12 months)

There will be a winner in each category along with a Community Choice winner that will be decided upon by the public. Each category winner will take home $1000 cash to help them expand their business and the Community Choice winner will win $5000 and be featured on Etsy’s global blog and social media channels.

This year’s judges include the founder and editor of The Design Files, Lucy Feagin, the Australian fashion and beauty blogger Sara Donaldson of Harper & Harley, lifestyle, travel and DIY blogger and author Geneva Vanderzeil of A Pair and A Spare, along with Etsy’s managing director across Australia and Asia, Helen Souness.

EtsyDesignAwards_VokKhoBaby

2015 Etsy Award Winner Vos Kho Baby

“Each year I’m astonished by the incredible creative talent we unearth through the Etsy Awards – talent that we’re excited to highlight, recognise and reward. This year’s competition and prizes are designed to give Etsy makers the exposure and tools they need to boost their businesses and grow their creative careers,” said Helen.

All entrants will also be in the running to win a digital marketing course from General Assembly and one-on-one mentoring with 2015’s Community’s Choice winner, Sonia Singh of Tree Change Dolls.

GraceWoodDesigns-GraceWood

2015 Etsy Award Winner Grace Wood with one of her designs

Grace Wood of Grace Wood Designs is a big proponent of the awards. “It’s a no-brainer! You have nothing to lose and everything to gain from entering the awards. I had so much support pouring in from family, friends and friends of friends during the awards. That support alone helped to reinforce that my business was worthwhile and my product was appreciated by a lot of people,” said Grace.

Entries are open until April 29. See here for more.

Categories
Designers Homewares Styling

Haymes and Etsy team up for perfect colour collaboration

The recent collaboration between Haymes Paint and Etsy is definitely worth getting excited about. Fabulous colours combined with beautiful handmade products? What’s not to love!

Gemmola_Haymes_ColourLibrary71505

At the root of this collaboration is Haymes’ desire to change the way they release colours. Shifting from set release dates for ranges, they are developing a ‘Colour Library’, where new hues will be released as they become relevant to the style scene.

Wendy Rennie, colour and concept manager at Haymes, says the rise of digital platforms is changing how people access trends. “We are seeing a more fluid environment when it comes to colours and trends. The Colour Library allows us to move away from putting a date on colour.”

Gemmola_Haymes_ColourLibrary71568

To help celebrate the launch of this innovative way of releasing colours, Haymes teamed up with Etsy. What better partner than the online marketplace of creativity and individual design itself?

Gemmola_Haymes_ColourLibrary71662

Haymes were inspired to work with Etsy after seeing the breadth of beautiful and unique talent available from the site’s artisans. They gave 11 local Etsy makers the colour palette of Curate (the first of seven volumes in the library) and encouraged them to run free with it.

The results are stunning. The artists have brought the library to life, making gorgeous ceramics, textiles and artworks with the blue, coral, tan and cement hues (as the swatches below show).

Curate_palette

What’s even nicer is that each product and colour combination has a unique backstory, reflecting the diverse background of Etsy’s makers.

Bea Bellingham, for example, is a ceramicist from Sydney. Her playful range of homewares is gorgeous, using the Curate colours to create a fun 100s and 1000s pattern. They really look like fairy bread! Pictured below, the bottom left ceramic cup.

Gemmola_Haymes_ColourLibrary71710

Alistair Birrell, better known as Mr Draper, has used the natural hues to create beautiful homespun textiles (see the rust cloth pictured above). Tired of the disposable nature of cloth homewares, he was inspired to join Etsy to create something more long-lasting. Originally a military man, his pieces are both beautiful and, to use his words, “ruthlessly practical”.

Curate was launched in Sydney this week. With six more libraries to be released, the potential for even more exciting colours and collaborations only grows.

Check out Curate and the other libraries.

Categories
Art Designers Homewares

Best friends create free-flowing, contemporary homewares

Scoring their first high school jobs together at their local store, best friends Stephanie Candelli and Loren Carbone always had big dreams of working alongside one another.

v Chased Designs

But with Stephanie an interior designer and Loren a teacher, specialising in visual arts and P.E., their fantasy always seemed unlikely… until one fateful trip. “It all started with a casual discussion we had on a plane trip home from Greece after an overseas holiday together,” explains Loren. “It soon got very serious as we were full of inspiration from our travels and suddenly had aspirations to create. We virtually started Chased Designs the next day.”

Chased Designsv

A homewares business specialising in handmade prints, paintings, cushions, candle holders and decorative blocks, the entire Chased Designs range is made by the duo in their hometown of Adelaide. Embracing contemporary designs in two contrasting styles: geometric abstraction and instinctive free-flow art, one style is cool, composed and controlled, the other intense, wild and untamed.

Chased Designs v

c Chased Designs

Their latest instalment is their decorative Mini Blocks, which can be used as coasters or styled under a candle or jewellery. Starting from $10, each hand painted piece is one-of-a-kind and is protected against heat and water. Perfect for getting creative with, they come in two bold styles: Geos and Paints.

cChased Designs

Also new in store, are Chased Designs’ latest prints of original fluid paintings. Available in A5, A4, A3 and A2 and as an instant download online, you can also get an original painting as a custom order commission piece. Their hand-sewn cushions (available as just covers or pre-filled) are similarly worthy of note, coming in a range of colours, prints and fabrics with hidden zip closures.

All wares are available through Chased Design’s Etsy store. Shop online.

Categories
Homewares

Online shopping fix: Next Door Artisan

Hoping to be the next Etsy or Hardtofind, new online store Next Door Artisan have two simple goals: to help makers share their work with as many people as possible, and to empower their customers to buy from local economies and communities.

next door artisan

Founded by Brisbane-based Canadian entrepreneur, Colleen Canivet, she hand selects every product after meeting or chatting with the designer. “The greatest part of this journey has been getting to know the creative people behind the products,” says Colleen “It’s amazing to meet such passionate, intelligent and inspiring individuals”.

Not restricting the products she sells, but rather supporting a wide range of artists, makers and creatives, what Colleen values is individuals who learn new skills, and use these skills to take raw materials and turn them into something new. “In the world of 3D printers, the term ‘handmade’ no longer encompasses creative makers, which is why we don’t restrict ourselves to selling ‘handmade’ items. Rather we take the time to get to know each of our artists, their materials and their processes, and ensure that each supplier has a true passion for what they do.”

Selling a mix of homewares, accessories, outdoor decor and stationery, Next Door Artisan ships Australia wide for free.

Shop online.

Categories
Interiors Addict

The Etsy Design Awards winners 2015!

Ok, so they come as no surprise to me seeing as I was one of the judges, but I’m delighted to finally be able to share with you the winners of this year’s Etsy Design Awards! They’re an impressive bunch and what amazing ambassadors for Etsy!

And the winners are (drumroll please)…

Art, Illustration & Papergoods: Liz Payne, Flirting with Yellow

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Fashion & Accessories: Sarah van Oosterom, Sarah van Oosterom

Home & Living: Gwyneth and Dave Hulse, Gwyneth Hulse Design

New Talent: James Howe, Vos Kho Baby

Business as Unusual: Grace Wood, Grace Wood Design Studio

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Community Choice: Sonia Singh, Tree Change Dolls

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Representing some of the best of Etsy’s creative community across Australia and New Zealand, this year’s Etsy Design Award winners impressed us judges­ and the public ­with their sophisticated designs, ingenuity and commitment to craftsmanship. The winners have secured a host of prizes designed to help them grow their businesses and profile including a feature in Inside Out magazine.

The New Talent and Community Choice winners James Howe and Sonia Singh, will also be embarking on a once­ in ­a ­lifetime trip to Etsy’s headquarters in Brooklyn, New York. According to James (voskhobaby.etsy.com), the creative validation the Etsy Design Awards has provided is as valuable as the prizes offered. “The prize is amazing, of course, and I’m really grateful for the boost it will no doubt give my design career. But most of all, as an emerging furniture designer, it’s wonderful for my work to have some external validation. Making the change table, I spent so many hours winding on Danish cord that by the time I’d finished I had honestly lost all insight into whether it looked good or not! So for my work to be noticed by such a high­ calibre judging panel is great,” he said.

Business as Unusual winner Grace Wood (gracewooddesigns.etsy.com) agrees: “Winning an Etsy Design Award is an incredible achievement and milestone for me. I started my little business with nothing other than passion for my craft and a lot of hope that the public would like my products! I never would have dreamed that a year and a half later I would be receiving such an accolade from a company I admire so greatly, that has supported me so much right from the beginning, and given me every opportunity to showcase and promote my products.”

Etsy’s managing director Australia and Asia, Helen Souness, said she was once again astonished by the breadth of creative talent displayed by the 2015 Etsy Design Award winners. “As this year’s winners highlight so brilliantly, the talent in Etsy’s Australian and New Zealand community and the quality of the goods they design, make and curate is remarkable. We’re thrilled to be able to once again showcase some of the best of the Etsy seller community through the Etsy Design Awards and to support the continued growth of their businesses on Etsy.”

This is the second year for the competition which celebrates the people and talent that make Etsy a destination for creativity and original design. The 2015 judges included myself, Inside Out’s editor ­in ­chief Claire Bradley, National Gallery of Victoria senior curator Ewan McEoin, and Etsy’s managing director Australia and Asia, Helen Souness.

Read more about this year’s winners.

Photography by Lauren Bamford, styling by Jacinta Moore. Apart from Tree Change Dolls photo, by Natalie Mendham.

Categories
Designers Homewares

Win winged vases by Etsy Design Awards finalist, Mari Bray

Here at Interiors Addict we’re big fans of Etsy, and with Jen signing on as a judge of the Etsy Design Awards 2015, well it’s safe to say we’ve become even more obsessed!

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Win the limited edition Vases with Gold Wings by Mari Bray

So with the 54 finalists now announced, we thought we’d give you the opportunity to win the work of one of our favourite designers, Mariza Bray of Mari Bray. As one of the 12 designers showcased in the Home & Living category, her nominated product is the limited edition Vases with Gold Wings.

Consisting of two little vases, the faces are hand painted in pastel pink and grey, with carved eyes and mouths and a vintage floral ceramic decal. Both vases also have wings painted in pure gold. However, the best part is the vases can be personalised with you and your partner’s face. Now how cute is that?!

As well as having the opportunity to win Mariza Bray’s work, you can also vote for her or any of the other finalists in the Community Choice category. Voting is open until 20 August.

Another of our favourites: the Leather Strap Bedside by H and G Designs
Another of our favourite finalists: the Leather Strap Bedside by H and G Designs

This is the second year of the Etsy Design Awards, which celebrates the people and talent that make Etsy a destination for creativity and original design. The finalists, selected from hundreds of exceptional entries across Australia and New Zealand, span five categories: Art, Illustration & Papergoods; Home & Lifestyle; Fashion & Accessories; New Talent; and Business As Unusual.

Another of our favourites: the Blue Lanterns linen tablecloth by Aqua Door Designs
Another of our favourites: the Blue Lanterns linen tablecloth by Aqua Door Designs

Etsy’s panel of high-profile design experts, including our very own Jen, Inside Out’s editor‐in‐chief Claire Bradley, National Gallery of Victoria senior curator Ewan McEoin, and Etsy’s managing director Australia and Asia, Helen Souness, now face the tough task of selecting a winner in each category. This year’s winners will be treated to a host of prizes designed to help them grow their businesses and profile. The New Talent and Community Choice winners will also receive a once‐in‐a‐lifetime trip to Etsy’s headquarters in Brooklyn, New York.

Visit Etsy Design Awards 2015 to view all this year’s finalists and vote for the Community Choice winner. And remember to enter our competition below!

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Categories
Designers Furniture Homewares Interviews

Carl Holder, creator of plywood furniture that’s anything but generic

After being commissioned to design a public art installation for his local village on the Sunshine Coast (which was so well-received it won one of the 2013 Intergrain Timber Vision Awards), Carl Holder was left with a pile of plywood off-cuts in his garage.

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Letting it sit there for over a year, one day he decided to turn it into a piece for his own home; something everyday but not, useful yet playful and beyond the generic. Beginning with a dozen or so ideas, Carl developed three into pieces, all of which you can now see in his online Etsy shop: Foreply.

Thingamabob
Thingamabob

Creating pieces that are sculptural and functional, Carl makes all his furniture himself from local FSC certified plywood. “I’ve always loved classic plywood furniture,” explains Carl. “I love its sleek good looks, its functionality and the fact that it is portable and flexible and can fit into very small spaces. So plywood furniture is kind of the perfect furniture for the way we live now.”

Capsule
Capsule

Designing the Thingamabob, both a table and seat ideal for holding things like books and an iPad; the Plus and Minus stool/side tables, which can easily be pulled apart and hung on the wall or door to save space; and the Capsule shelf, a modern mantelpiece for neatly holding daily belongings away from the kids, the products have been so sought-after Carl even won the Esty Design Award for New Talent last year. “It’s still early days for Foreply but it has come along way since winning the New Talent Award. The resulting confidence and exposure the award has given me is invaluable. I went from having a few dozen shop visits a day to literally tens of thousands, with interest coming from all over the globe.”

Plus side table
Plus

With entries now open for this year’s Etsy Design Awards (Jen’s a judge!), Carl has some helpful tips for any potential applicants. “Preparing your submission is a great opportunity to refresh your shop; ensure photos of your work are of a high standard and your shop information is up-to-date and engaging. Tell your story and share your passion in a concise way.”

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Having always loved making things, Carl got into the furniture business after his day job at an architecture and design firm saw him miss getting his “hands dirty.” With his 9-5 life seeing him rely heavily on 3D CAD modelling and prototyping to design, Carl’s loving being able to follow his passion for ethical furniture design and working with local sustainable materials.

Currently using all his spare time to come up with exciting new products and ideas, the Foreply Etsy shop is as a result taking a short break. “I hope to reopen the virtual doors again very soon, there are lots of ideas on the drawing board that I want to resolve and bring to market to extend the Foreply range. These (like the current items) consist of designs that are entirely made from plywood and others introduce new materials and a different design aesthetic.” Watch this space!

For more information.

Categories
Competitions Designers Homewares

The Etsy Design Awards 2015 are open and I’m a judge!

I’ve been a massive fan of Etsy for years. In fact, I don’t think I’ve stopped shopping from its sellers since I discovered it, including half my wedding (read about my top finds here)! So I was really honoured to be asked to be a judge of this year’s Etsy Design Awards and I can’t wait to discover some new local makers and small businesses. As a fellow online business owner and supporter of Australian creatives (we’ve featured many Etsy store owners on the blog), it’s something close to my heart. I’m pretty much a disaster zone when it comes to making stuff, so I have huge admiration for these clever folk!

Carl Holder
2014 New Talent winner Carl Holder of Foreply

Now in its second year, submissions just opened and you can enter up until 13 July 2015. This year, the awards are also open to New Zealand sellers.

This year’s categories are:

  • Art, Illustration & Papergoods
  • Home & Lifestyle
  • Fashion & Accessories
  • New Talent
  • Business As Unusual.

A winner will be selected from each category, along with a sixth Community’s Choice winner voted by the public. The Business As Unusual category rewards sellers that run their shop and create items in ways that are socially and environmentally responsible, a nod to the Etsy mission: ‘to reimagine ecommerce in ways that build a more fulfilling and lasting world’. The New Talent category aims to showcase creatives new to Etsy who have opened their shop in 2015.

Last year’s new talent winner Carl Holder (above) of Foreply, says: “Winning the award and the resulting media exposure generated masses of interest in my Etsy shop ‐ I went from a few dozen visits a day to literally thousands with interest and encouragement coming from all over the globe.​ It’s given me confidence to continue what I am doing and allowed me to venture into selling my pieces outside of Australia.”

Helen Souness, managing director, Etsy Australia and Asia, says: “We were so thrilled to see that the Etsy Design Awards, in their inaugural year in 2014, really helped the finalists and winners to grow their creative businesses on the Etsy platform. Perhaps as importantly it gave many emerging talents the confidence to know their work was world-class and that they really could make a living from pursuing their passion for making. We hope to discover many new talents in this year’s Awards and welcome new makers and designers onto Etsy.”

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Although the recognition alone is a pretty big deal, the prizes on offer aren’t to be sniffed at, including a trip to Etsy’s headquarters in Brooklyn, New York for the New Talent and Community’s Choice winners, as well as coverage on Etsy’s social media and a feature in the October issue of​ Inside Out for all category winners.

Olive and the Volcano
2014 winners Olive and the Volcano

This year’s awards are in association with Inside Out magazine. Editor in chief Claire Bradley says: “These kinds of awards are a rare opportunity for smaller businesses to have their beautifully crafted products seen by a design‐focused audience. It’s exposure to the very people who treasure true craftsmanship and attention to detail and it’s an acknowledgment of what’s often been years of hard work and sacrifice. Personally, I’ll be looking for entries that raise the bar in terms of materials and finishing details. Quality execution is a must for me. And of course, style that moves past what we’re currently seeing in the market.”

Fellow judge Claire Bradley of Inside Out magazine
Fellow judge Claire Bradley of Inside Out magazine

Alongside Claire, Helen and I, Ewan McCoin, senior curator at the National Gallery, makes up the judging panel. We can’t wait to see the entries!

For more information and to enter.

Categories
Bedrooms Designers Furniture Homewares Styling

A look inside world first accommodation experience with Etsy

Last month we reported on the exciting collaboration that saw online marketplace, Etsy.com, takeover the junior penthouse in Melbourne’s The Cullen hotel. And now we have our hands on the gorgeous pictures!

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Styled and photographed by creative team Marsha Golemac and Brooke Holm, who hand ­picked products from Etsy’s Australian community to transform the penthouse, botanical designers Loose Leaf finished off the space by styling the suite’s accompanying leafy courtyard.

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“Etsy at The Cullen is a unique collaboration,” explains Marsha. “We see that bringing together local design, art and luxury as a rare combination that makes for an exciting and challenging opportunity. We’ve sourced products from Etsy designers and artists across Australia to create a ‘home away from home’ hotel setting. We wanted to enhance what is essentially a studio apartment style space with exceptional designs from Etsy, to create an environment that is considered, tasteful and bursting with character.”

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Products from almost 40 Etsy sellers from around Australia were selected for the project ranging from furniture and artworks to bed linen and ceramics. The transformation showcases Etsy’s offering of unique products for use in everyday living. It also demonstrates how even the smallest living spaces can be elevated using an affordable selection of items thoughtfully designed and made by Etsy’s online community of makers and curators.

For more information.

Categories
Bedrooms Designers Expert Tips Furniture Homewares Interviews Kids Rooms Styling

Affordable photography & styling service by crafty supermum!

It’s not too often that I stumble upon something I’ve never seen before, but Concrete & Honey certainly ticks that box!

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With a unique business model, owner Nicola Greenaway provides an affordable styling and photography service for growing little businesses, encompassing everything from photography and styling to prop and studio hire, plus a little bit of PR.

“Clients post their products to me and in just a few days, they have beautifully styled images to share on social media, in online and print advertising and for their websites and webstores,” explains Nicola. “The service includes beautiful photography through to social media, as I share on my Instagram and/or blog. I also photograph babies and have been asked to design and photograph nurseries which I love to do.”

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Running Concrete & Honey alongside her blog and Etsy shop of the same name, Nicola is also a mother and a full-time employee (is she superwoman or what?!). “I work full-time in a bank and started my blog six years ago as a creative outlet from the corporate world. This year, I started my website and now style and photograph on weekends and craft at night for my Etsy shop.”

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Designed by Brie Stanley

 

Selling a range of products on Etsy, from paper feather clusters to stitch dot garlands, you’ll also find kids room design packages including mood boards, shopping lists and styling tips. Due to popular demand, she has even created a package based off her own dream nursery, her daughter Piper’s!

“Piper’s room is pretty dreamy: white walls and floors and grey linen curtains, a Número 74 canopy with lots of lush cushions and a great clothes rack to top it off. Her IKEA Ribba picture shelves are an effective way to display books and prints and the HK Living button wall hooks used as door handles on her wardrobe look gorgeous.”

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With a style that is modern, graphic and a little bit romantic; Nicola loves everything light and white, though let’s not forget some beautiful things to give the room a pop of colour. She believes you can create the look – be it in your kids room or anywhere in your home — without the big budget. “A fresh coat of paint is a must. If in doubt, make everything white and add colour with the wares. Remove anything you don’t absolutely love from sight. Paper storage bags are great for this. Beautiful greeting cards can be art when framed and they’re only a few dollars each.”

For more information.

Categories
Art Homewares Styling

World ­first accommodation experience with Etsy at The Cullen

​Etsy.com, the online marketplace for handmade and vintage goods, has partnered with Melbourne hotel The Cullen (one of my personal favourites), to create an unforgettable curated accommodation experience. For two weeks in April, guests will have the opportunity stay in a one ­of ­a kind junior penthouse suite styled with products available on ​Etsy.

Brooke Holm (left) and Marsha Golemac
Brooke Holm (left) and Marsha Golemac

Stylist Marsha Golemac and ​photographer Brooke Holm are set to curate and style the suite, located in the trendy suburb of Prahran. ​The products, a mix of handmade and vintage homewares, have been sourced ​through Australia’s burgeoning Etsy community of makers and finders. The result will be a world ­first boutique hotel experience.

“Etsy at The Cullen is a unique collaboration,” says Marsha. “We see that bringing together retail, local design, art and luxury as a rare combination that makes for an exciting and challenging opportunity. We’ve sourced products from Etsy designers and artists across Australia to create a ‘home away from home’ hotel setting. We wanted to enhance the luxe and artistic elements of The Cullen with exceptional designs to create a space that is considered, tasteful and bursting with character.”

Bookings for the Etsy at The Cullen suite are now open at​ for stays between 13 and 29 April 2015.

Visitors will also get the chance to experience the suite first hand at an open day on Saturday 11 April. This free event will give visitors the opportunity to tour the curated room and learn about the latest trends in homewares. The products featured in the space will be available for purchase at Etsy.com

Helen Souness, Etsy’s managing director for Australia and Asia, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with such a truly innovative hotel as The Cullen. We have an incredible range of homewares for sale in our marketplace and it is wonderful to be able to present a carefully curated selection in a contemporary hotel space. It provides us with an unprecedented opportunity to showcase the work of Etsy’s Australian creative community.”

Beckie Mitchell, Art Series Hotel Group’s marketing manager, said: “Being big fans of the work ​of Etsy makers and creatives​around the world, we jumped at the chance to collaborate on such an exciting project.”

For more information.