TO STASH WORLD AAAND BEYOND!
The Beyond Stash World series explores the humans behind the stickers and stationery that we have the pleasure of stocking. Learn more about what inspires your fave makers and where you can discover more of their creations.
Tell us a little about who you are and where your love of art began?
I'm a designer, maker, mum and pattern lover from Melbourne. My creative journey started in web/graphic design, but took a side step into patterns when I started a textiles course. I created the label Fabric Drawer to showcase my love of patterns on a range of paper and fabric products. I also collaborate with clients, licensing my patterns to feature on their products. I was always creative and crafty from a young age, and one of my favourite hobbies as a child was collecting stickers. I am re-living my childhood love of stickers through my kids who are fond of collecting them!
Please describe your creative space – whether it's your art studio or the backyard.
It's a little all over the place! Which happens when you work from home. My products are stored in one room. Another for the sewing machine in one corner of the room and my desk is in a small nook in the landing of our house. I would love to have a large studio space, with everything in one spot. Something to plan towards in the future!
What inspired you to start your business?
I think every designer can relate to being constrained by what the business they work for or their client wants. I started Fabric Drawer as a way to create the kind of work I enjoy doing. I really love working with patterns and find the opportunities I’ve had over the years are from working hard to build up a folio and get my work out there. That sense of ownership and seeing designs come to life on products is incredibly rewarding.
Tell us about the inspiration behind some of the pieces you’ve made.
My work is inspired by nature and my life living in Melbourne. We just got a cat last year, so he’s featured in a few recent prints (including my cats sticker sheet). I also started doing some hand lettering in the last couple of years for fun, as a way to do some quick artwork (since designing patterns take awhile), so this has also featured in my other sticker sheet.
Who’s your favourite singer or band at the moment?
Oh gosh - I have to admit I don’t have a favourite band or singer. I have had phases where I’ve been listening to music from when I was in high school or uni ( a long time ago!), or (sadly) music soundtracks from movies my kids have been watching, but these days I tend to put on a podcast or work without anything in the background. The house is usually really noisy when my kids are around (which has been a lot over the last couple of years) - so I generally find I need the peace or quiet to work.
Are you a sticker user or do you hoard them?
One of my prized possessions as a child was my Hello Kitty sticker book. I carefully arranged all my stickers in that book. So I guess I am a sticker user, but the stickers were all for me to keep!
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not making your art?
I do a lot of sewing, not just for my business, but also personal projects. Right now I’m finishing off a baby quilt. Otherwise I quite enjoy being active, like running and also reading to wind down.
Of course, we have to ask, what’s your favourite sticker you’ve made?
I really like the stamp stickers. They are really cute to decorate envelopes with. They were really fun to make and now I’m looking into getting some stamp washi tape made.
Where can we find you?
Instagram: @fabric_drawer
Website: fabricdrawer.com.au/
Etsy: FabricDrawer