We talked to Dermot, the genius behind Crafty Kooka sewing patterns, about what inspires his work, his desert island crafting tool and what keeps him creative! Getting a sneak peak into our amazing designers’ creative processes is always interesting and we hope that it inspires you to set up a space in your home exclusively for DIY. If we’ve learned anything over the past few weeks, it’s that staying home doesn’t have to be boring!
When did you first want to be a pattern designer?
It was kind of an accident. I have twin boys and they had a favourite stuffed toy that they would take turns sleeping with. Occasionally there would be tears over who’s turn it was, so I decided to make them a toy each. I asked my wife to teach me to sew and after a week or two of experimenting I had a couple of stuffed monkeys.
I didn’t really know what I was doing and looking back they were very simple but the boys loved them and their enthusiasm gave me the confidence to have a go at selling the patterns.
Why are both pattern creation & making your own toys important to you?
I have a degree in 3D design and have always been one of those people who just likes to draw a lot. If I didn’t design patterns I would still be working on some kind of art project.
As well as that, the patterns were a really good fit. We have four children and live in rural Ireland, so one of us needs to be home. The patterns mean I can be at home for the kids.
I love to see people making the toys or posting photos. I feel the patterns are a blank canvass for them to express their own creativity.
Do you have your own studio? Tell us about your workspace.
I work from the house in a spare room. It’s a simple set up. Because I’ve had no formal training, my sewing skills are really quite basic but I think that’s only a good thing, if I can make my own patterns then anyone can!
How has the DIY industry changed in the years you’ve been active?
There’s certainly many more designers and makers than a few years ago but in a world of mass production, hand made or home made has more value than ever. Do what you love, and there’s a good chance someone else will like it as well.
Quickfire round!
Must-have DIY tool? A good pencil, I like the really thick ones with a soft lead that they make for young children.
What’s your sewing soundtrack? I work at home so I’m alone for most of the day, so I like a good podcast to keep me company. Saying that, When I’m writing the instructions I need silence or my spelling goes to pieces.
Desert Island sewing pattern/accessory?
I suppose there’ll be no electricity so I’ll go for a sketch book and pencil!
When you’re in a creative block, how do you get back into the spirit?
It happens to me with every pattern, when you’re just going in circles. If the weather’s good, there’s a beautiful lighthouse not far from here and I’ll take out my bicycle and go for a spin. I think the key is to do something different that allows your mind to drift. So things like cycling or walking (on your own) work well.
Tell us about your new Orca pattern, what inspired you?
I’ve been thinking about an Orca for a long while. They’re really beautiful and have wonderful flowing lines. I have a trial and error way of working. I just have a go and see how it looks, then I make some changes and try again, and again and just keep going until it looks right. It’ll often take twenty or thirty versions before it looks right. I use plain white fabric so the design is nice and clear. Plain fabric also means they can double up as a colouring-in toy for my daughter to decorate!
We hope that you enjoyed our conversation with Dermot from Crafty Kooka! Getting an insight into how our designers work creatively is like being in a sweet shop! Stay tuned for more interviews with designers.
