Meet the Maker - Monda

Just over a day to go!! So the last few Meet the Makers today, firstly Monda !!



What got you into crafting?

If I really think about it - it was probably my CDT (craft, design and technology) teacher in secondary school. He was great, and very encouraging - not many teachers had a profound effect on me, but he did. I think he saw the potential in me and nurtured it. I've also got creative parents - my dad is a writer and photographer, and my mum can turn her hand to pretty much anything: crochet, embroidery, knitting, quilting, upholstery - you name a craft, she can do it.
At University I went on to do a degree in Design Crafts - a combination of ceramics, printed textiles and multi-media textiles (and specialised in the latter two disciplines).

What is the best thing about making your softies and mixed media pieces?

One of the things I like best about making my softies, accessories and cards is that I have complete free reign over the creative process and decision making. I don't have this same level of freedom in my day job (not a creative discipline) where 'collaboration' is the buzz word of the moment. Sometimes you just want to do it the way you want to do it without having to involve the world and his brother! Also, because I create in my own time, I think it's generally quite a good stress reliever and a complete contrast from my day job which an be quite mentally and emotionally demanding at times.
Creating makes me happy - I like to produce nice things which I think people will also get pleasure from.



What Handm@de stuff do you have your eye on ?

The handm@de stuff I have my eye on is, well everything! I'll be like a kid in a sweet shop. I'm getting married next year so I'm eager to see what Hatastic has to offer - perhaps some nice wedding headgear for me!. Also, I'd like some more of Kate's (Paperleaf) cards - her printed designs on recycled paper and card are lovely.
I met some fab people at handm@de Oxford last year, so it will be nice to say 'hi' again and see what they've been working on since the last time we met.



Lots of stuff to do, but back later with another!!!