Makers Dozen – According to Alana

Tell us a little bit about your label (art) and what you do?

My name is Alana and I make matching skirts, bags, scarves and headbands out of fun novelty print fabrics and also a small selection of vintage fabrics.

I also make polymer necklaces and cute fabric jewellery pouches.

Bright colours are really important to me and you will see that in all the pieces I create.  The brighter, the better!

What inspires your work?

I am inspired by vintage fashion.  I collect vintage pieces and I love how they truly were made to last.

Co-ordination and bright colours are also a big inspiration.  I like creating pieces that match.  My love of co-ordinating fashion is what encouraged me to make my own accessories and soon I realised that other people love matching accessories too.

What jobs have you done other than being an artist?

Cooking, retail and officework.

What memorable responses have you had to your work?

If I am wearing one of my own creations then I absolutely love when I am stopped and asked, where did I buy it?  It is very exciting to be able to tell someone I have made it myself!

Also a great response is when a customer sends me a photo of them wearing something I have made.  I never tire of seeing someone proudly wearing something I have created with my hands. It makes all the effort worthwhile.

One thing you can’t live without?

Fabric.

What gets you up in the morning?

The thought of what I can possibly create in the day and the opportunity to dream up more ideas.  Plus coffee!

How would your best friend describe you in 3 words?

Colourful, co-ordinated and creative.

What is the next skill you want to learn?

I would love to learn how to crochet.

What is your dream project?

I am a firm believer in quality over quantity so I would one day love to be involved in a project that encourages more people to buy handmade and also support local businesses.

Favourite or most inspirational place in Sydney?

Newtown.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

Be confident and believe in everything that you create because if you don’t believe in the things you make then nobody else will.

What advice would you give to new, aspiring Makers?

Keep going, don’t give up.  If an idea is not working try something new or slightly different.  Find a niche in the market.  Keep your range small to start with and be true to yourself.

And most importantly, what would your ultimate karaoke song be?

Hmmm… I must admit “ Man, I feel like a Woman” is what I seem to always sing at karaoke.  It is about the only song I can sing in tune!

Want more According to Alana?

Email: accordingtoalana@gmail.com
Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/accordingtoalana
Instagram: @accordingtoalana