the blog hop

Thank you to the lovely Col from Hello Olive who very kindly nominated me to take part in the blog hop. For those of you who don't know Col pop over and say hello. You'll find a very lovely blog and Etsy shop selling gorgeous prints designed by Col. She is quite the talent!

As part of the hop, I will be answering a few questions about my creative process.

What am I working on?

To be perfectly honest, at the moment not much and that makes me feel a little sad. I have been so busy with family life this past few months my love of making has been shelved. It definitely hasn't disappeared. It's simply waiting patiently in the wings. 

I have on-going creative projects which are a part of our family life. Baking, growing vegetables and tending our jungle of a garden. But the projects I really love doing just for fun and relaxation deserve more of my time. In September my youngest will be starting primary school. A new chapter, meaning more time for creativity. I can't wait.

How does my work differ from others of its genre?

Honestly I'm not really sure. I suppose the things I make differ from others because they are mine. We all create differently. From where we find inspiration to the physical process of actually making something. Each make has it's own identity. 

Why do I create what I do?

Simply because I love to make things. Being creative is very important to me. It has always been part of who I am. As a child I made things constantly. Always painting or drawing or sewing.

When I became a mother, my creativity returned with a vengeance. I gave up work to look after my children. A decision I have never regretted. But being creative allows me a little escape from the everyday. Time to relax, empty my mind and just be me. Making things for the love of it. Is there a better reason, I wonder?

What does my creative process involve?

Inspiration comes from everywhere. From books, magazines, online. But the most inspiring thing for me is nature. All things flora and fauna. I was a free range child, spending long days exploring nature with my brothers, cousins and friends. My love of the natural world has remained.

Botanical prints, floral fabrics, animal motifs, insects and birds of all descriptions are very evident in my home and creative projects. 

My creative process begins with choosing an idea. I have many scribbled down in notebooks with curious little doodles alongside to help jog my memory. I really enjoy gathering together the supplies and getting started. I love when I can create uninterrupted. Not often a reality but a pleasure when it happens.

Pure joy is in finishing. Creating things makes me feel good.

And that is that. I hope you have enjoyed reading my contribution to the blog hop.

And now its time to introduce two very lovely and talented women. I have many favourite blogs and these are two of the very best. Pop over and take a look. You won't be disappointed.

Sharon blogs at modflowers. She designs and makes beautiful creations from vintage fabrics. Her blog is a joy to read. Full of adventures in stitching, thrifting and living creatively.

Aniko blogs at Idle Needle. She shares snapshots of her life in Northern Europe. Aniko is a talented creative who has a great eye for finding vintage treasure. Her blog is wonderful.