meet the maker

Meet The Maker - Kirsten Bright - CutiePie Creations

by Tanya Karolia February 04, 2017 5 Comments

Hi everyone,
Welcome to our first session of Meet the Maker! Every day we see gorgeous items in the Tadah Pattern Group on Facebook and I've always thought it would be nice to know a bit more about the clever ladies who make them. So each fortnight I will introduce you to a lovely creator who we admire and constantly feel inspired by.
I'm sure you all know Kirsten from her page CutiePie Creations, she is very active in the Tadah pattern group and makes the most delicious looking ruffle bums, among other gorgeous items.

Made using the Tadah Pattern Nappy Cover Combo Pattern

We have ask Kirsten a couple of questions, so grab yourself a cuppa and enjoy getting to know Kirsten.

When did you start sewing?

Late 2011 is when I started sewing. After another business I had with my husband did not work out, I found myself still in need to occupy myself.
So after visiting a local Handmade Babies and Children's Market, I fell in love with all the gorgeous handmade clothing, but couldnt afford it! So after some encouragement from my mum who gave me her sewing machine, bought me some fabric and patterns, off I went!!!
My little girl became my inspiration and model.

What was the first thing you made?

First thing I ever made was Ruffles, a ruffle nappy cover. I so wanted a pair for my daughter! They really weren’t very good lol

What inspired you to sew? Has this changed/ evolved during your journey?

I have always been quite a crafty person, i used to do cross stitch a lot . But when I went to that local handmade babies/children market, I just feel in love and I knew it was something I wanted to do. . My inspiration has changed over the years, now I love certain fabric designers and get excited about making pretties in the fabric.

I just love the happy feeling I get when I create something new and know that it will make some little girl or mummy happy too.

Made using the Tadah Baby Tea Party Dress Pattern (hacked to a peplum length) and the Tadah Pattern Flexi Shorts

What is your favourite thing to make?

It was ruffled nappy covers and rompers for the first few years and then in the last few it has been dresses. I love creating that special dress that will make any little girl feel like a princess.

Do you ever sew for yourself?

I do a little sewing for myself, not much. I've made myself a pair of shorts and some dresses.

What techniques would you like to learn in the future?

Mmm…. not sure. I guess to sew more with knits, it's an area I’ve not really ventured into much.

What do you like about Tadah Patterns?

I love that Tadah patterns are on trend and are always easy to follow. I love all the options to each pattern, and the clear well written instructions and great illustrations.

Made using the Tadah Patterns Pleatie Playsuit Pattern

Do you have a favourite fabric style/designer/colour palette you like working with?

Yes I do. My favourite Fabric Designer without a doubt is Tanya Whelan. I love most of her collections. I love florals and pastels - mint/pink/lemon/white

How do you keep (or not) your sanity running a successful business while managing kids?

Well it is a challenge thats for sure. Now both my children are in school it is much easier to find sewing/creation time. I sew most days when they are at school. Before they were in school, I would just work in nap times and when they were happily playing or watching a movie. I’ve never really sewed much at night until about 6 months ago. Now that I am much busier, I have found I need to do a couple hours of sewing at night just to keep up.

Do you a) choose the fabric, then the style or b) choose the style then the fabric?

I think I’m most definitely A. I get inspiration from the fabric , its print and colours. Sometimes I just know once I see it what I will make, it's easy. Then sometimes it takes me a while to figure out what co-ordinate fabric to use , when that happens I usually sit on the floor in my sewing room and just look at all my fabric and see what works best and then decide on a style.

If you didn't sew, what would you be doing instead?

Oh gosh, I'd go insane lol. It really is my life . I guess I’d go back to part time in the work force, but would always find some time for sewing.

Made using the Tadah Patterns Tea Party Dress Pattern

I'll be back next week with another session of Meet the Maker to introduce you to another lovely creator.

Bye for now!

Tanya x

Tanya Karolia

Author

5 Responses

Pamela Voltz

February 05, 2017

Love Kirsten’s work. I admire her styles. It is very hard not to copy her creations.

Cathie

February 05, 2017

Kirsten is a wonderful inspiration to many of us. Her style is gorgeous! Thanks for sharing Kirsten, it was nice to get to know you :)

Valerie Varney

February 05, 2017

Great choice for a first guest. I have saved so many images of Kirstin’s and reall need to get busy sewing for my granddaughters! Live her work, love Tadah!