Tell us a little bit about your label (art) and what you do?
Paw Folk Couture makes hand crafted fashion accessories and coats for dogs. It was born out of my frustration that most dogs bigger than a miniature poodle were extremely limited in terms of fun dog coats and accessories. There was a saturated market for frilly outfits made to fit teeny tiny pocket dogs, but everyone’s pup should have the ability to look super trendy. Everything is hand crafted and made with loads of love, and we try to help out as many rescue organisations and dog charities as possible.
What inspires your work?
I have always had a slight obsession with textiles and fabric, a love of fashion and animals so the three sort of collided and Paw Folk Couture was born!
What jobs have you done other than being an artist?
I have worked for over 10 years in the events industry and am also a stay at home mum to a beautiful (but crazy and chaotic) 19 month old girl named Ivy.
What memorable responses have you had to your work?
The emails and photos from customers blows my mind. It’s really lovely to know that the time you invest into making something to custom fit a dog is genuinely appreciated by the owner. To wake up to an email from someone saying it’s the best dog coat they have ever bought is really humbling and motivating.
One thing you can’t live without?
My little family and good coffee.
What gets you up in the morning?
The good coffee…
How would your best friend describe you in 3 words?
Determined, positive, a dreamer
What is the next skill you want to learn?
I would love to learn how to make resin bowls, and it is definitely on the to do list!!
What is your dream project?
I would love to do a super glitzy range for special occasions like dog showings and peoples weddings. Silks and pearls and lots of pretty shiny things.
Favourite or most inspirational place in Sydney?
I’m from Brisbane but have family down in Sydney and love the Manly waterfront area. It’s just beautiful.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Don’t let small minds convince you that your dreams are too big. I always have a million lightbulb moments moments every day, but if you never act upon them or follow through then they will always just be dreams and someone else could make a living out of something you never backed yourself enough to do.
What advice would you give to new, aspiring Makers?
Be patient. It can feel like an eternity between when you get your creative enterprise up and running and when people actually start to purchase items or appreciate your work. I could have given up a million times, but patience and strategic thinking are both really important in the initial phases of a small creative business.
And most importantly, what would your ultimate karaoke song be?
I would never under any circumstances (even severe intoxication) be up on a karaoke stage – it’s one of my biggest fears ever!!!!
Paw Folk Couture in stock at Work-Shop Makery, 106 Oxford Street Darlinghurst, NSW