Made by a Mzungu

I love using postage stamps in my resin pieces as they become wearable art – why leave them in stamp albums unseen for ages when you can wear them.  Most people identify with stamps as also being a part of their travel experiences.  The graphics and designs available are fantastic and original and I can create unique one-off pieces.  The designs in my pieces using vintage wallpaper also have great colours and patterns.  Everything old is new again.

Why is handmade important to you ?

What can be better than buying something that is unique, individual and has thought, time, effort (and love) put into making the item.  Meeting the maker also gives a great connection to the piece.  It’s also a great way to support small businesses and makers that are passionate about what they do.

Which is your favorite Melbourne suburb and why ?

I live in Preston South so of course it’s my favourite suburb.  I am fortunate to have some fantastic neighbours not to mention a great and unique selection of food, cafes and individual shops – the diversity and individuality is wonderful.  It’s location is fantastic and I love that Preston South is linked with the other great inner northern suburbs of Thornbury, Northcote and Fairfield.  I also love the way the residents support their local shops and markets.

When you are not making or selling at markets, what would we find you doing ?

On Thursdays you will find me doing volunteer work at FareShare (rescuing food, fighting hunger) , a food rescue organisation where I do a food preparation shift making quiches, sausage rolls, slicing, dicing, mixing vegetable etc.  I work with a great bunch of volunteers at a great place contributing to the well-being of Victoria’s hungry.  Every second Friday you’ll find me back at FareShare doing a cleaning shift in their commercial kitchens.

When I’m not doing my volunteer work I’m either crocheting which I’ve just rediscovered and love (currently crocheting a blanket for charity), or doing the general “home stuff” that needs to be done – I think you know what I mean by “home stuff”.  I’m also slightly attached to my laptop staying in contact with friends, looking at patterns, getting new ideas etc.  Reading is also a big part of my life – a good book to read and I am happy.

Coffee or tea ? Wine or beer ?

I love a good pot of chai made with chai leaves and steamed milk – not that mix stuff that passes for a chai latte.   Wine or beer – sorry, neither of them do it for me – but give me a cider (apple or pear) and I’m happy