fawn&forest

Sweetbeets makes me smile. Lisa of Sweetbeets not only rocks the letterpress (and so amazingly!) but also creates eco-friendly cards, using 100% post-consumer recycled paper that's also processed chlorine free and uses vegetable-based ink.

I think her "1 2 3 4 5" collection (1 and 3 shown above) would of course make beautiful birthday cards (blank inside so you can write your own greeting!) but would also look awesome framed + hung in a kid's room. And, if you are not throwing a party for 50, they would also make lovely birthday party invitations that would set the tone for a very very fun party.

It was the Tiny Warbler Whale that sent me on a quick search for Kate Keeler's email address. I fell in love with the whale! It made her little family of creatures instant Forest Finds. Not only are her small stuffed animals incredibly genuine, but Kate also perfectly captures the sweetness + character of each animal. I will admit one thing: I ordered a whale for myself and under the guidelines that these small animals are not meant for small children, I have no plans of sharing! 

 
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Truthfully, when I was  about 6 years old, my answer was always 'an artist'. I always loved to paint and draw and make collages. I guess not  too much has changed but now fabric has been thrown in the mix.

Does your "day job" (as a photographer's assistant) interact/overlap/inspire your "evening job" as creator of little friends?
Absolutely! I find being surrounded by talented and creative people really inspiring. On a shoot, I usually find out what someone's favorite animal is and then I start to see it as a pattern. It also pushes me to hone my technical skills and always try to do my best.

What does the rest of '08 hold for you?
There will be a lot of fabric, cutting, stitching and sewing ahead. I'm working out some new patterns now and hopefully will have some new products to offer in time for the holidays. There may be my first craft fair down the road as well. And hopefully a little travel and rest with my husband. 

Thanks Kate! I look forward to who else you create!