Some people you meet just ooze craftiness - they don't just do craft as a hobby, it is just who they are. Beckie is one of those people! Incredibly talented and with a passion for anything vintage Beckie has put together a crafty collection of soft toy monsters, star wars satchels, crochet necklaces and stuffed wall mounted deer heads just to name a few of her unique up cycled creations. An eclectic mix of textures and styles make Huis Etc a must see at your next EPM visit!
Tell us about yourself and what you create...
I am a stay at home mama to 2 fabulous boys, Roy 7, and Des 3. Wife to an equally fabulous man, owner of dingo looking dog, coffee LOVER, and one man band at HUIS ETC. I create everything from bags, totes, purses, softies, homewares, and accessories from vintage and reclaimed materials. Recycling and reusing is very important to myself and my brand.
When did you know you first wanted to be a designer?
It was my 12th birthday and I got my first sewing machine, it was such a fantastic feeling to be able to try and make all the things I had in my head, and I haven't ever stopped.
What inspires you to be creative?
Fabrics, prints, art, my kids and nature all inspire me to be creative, but mainly the overwhelming urge to re-use, and recycle. I get a whole lot of satisfaction out of creating something beautiful and useful out of discarded or unloved items.
Describe your perfect day...
A sleep-in followed by brunch and fabulous coffee with my boys, maybe some gardening, crafting, and lots of cuddles.
What is your best ever creative moment?
Making two fabulously clever, quirky, hilarious boys is a pretty good achievement I think! But I am still amazed at how we managed to plan, and execute our wedding almost entirely ourselves. I made my outfit, all the decorations, altered the bridesmaid dresses etc etc, it was such a fun day!
Describe a lesson you learnt from creative failure...
I would have to say 'know your limits'. Im always one for giving anything a go, but sometimes you need to step back, think things through, and know when to stop. Creating has always been a pleasure for me, relaxing, and satisfying. I would hate to see it become a chore, so I know now when to limit myself.
What's the scariest movie you have ever seen?
I'd have to say 'the shining', I'm a massive Stanley Kubrick fan but when I got to see 'the shining' at ACME, I was equally intrigued, and petrified.
What's your favourite childhood book?
'Where the wild things are', I still enjoy reading it now!
What's the best advice anyone ever gave you?
"Measure twice, cut once" my late dad used to say it all the time, mainly to do with woodwork, but every time I draft a new pattern I hear him saying it. I have come undone a few times when I've been to impatient to follow this rule, you can't mess with vintage fabric!
What's your favourite tunes to get you in the creative mood?
Jarvis Cocker never fails to put me in a creative mood, PJ Harvey, and The Drones are faves too.
Connect with Little Wise Owl.
Facebook - Little Wise Owl
Website - www.littlewiseowl.com.au
Thanks so much Beckie for the window into your creative world! If you would like to find out more about this crafty genius why not join our next EPM workshop at the Jan 17 twilight market with Beckie. She will teach you how to create the cutest crochet bunting ever! (pictured above) For more information on the workshop pop on over here.
