To be honest, when I initially heard there was a ‘weaving’ craze I had terrible visions of ridiculously ‘over the top’ hairpiece extensions! I was clearly ignorant and THANK GOD that is not what we’re dealing with here ….
Chief and Kewpie create INCREDIBLE pieces of artwork that will instantly become a feature wherever you hang them, without a single ounce of ‘Nanna’ about it ☺
‘Need’ is a very strong word but I have decided that I need need need one in every room! ….. (which for me is only 2 rooms….. oh my glamourous life)
The brilliant, obviously talented and hilarious Kel is behind this booming small business and she has taken the time in her hectic life to give us a glimpse in life behind the scenes…… read on…
Where on earth did you learn to weave so magically!!??? And how did this blend into Chief and Kewpie’s existence?
Look, I taught myself the art of weaving. To be honest (this probably isn’t great for business) it’s really easy! There are heaps of tutorials online. It’s therapeutic.
I started C&K to get a little second I come for our family. I have always loved fibres and wool, trying my hand at almost everything in my time. I’ve crocheted, knitted, sewed, macrame-d, tasseled and felted. And let’s face it, I’ve sucked at them all. Weaving somehow came very naturally to me. Unlike anything else. Certainly not like mothering!! (Anyone else find that heaps harder than they expected???)
How much have you personally grown and in what way since launching your venture?
I’ve grown HEAPS! For starters I’m about 10kg heavier. HA. But really.
C&K is still under 1year old, so there’s been lots of growth in such a little time. I’ve learnt new techniques, built some looms (with power tools!), and definitely refined some skills. But my biggest area of growth would be my business mindedness. Of which I had ZERO until C&K. I’ve learnt heaps in the way of self promotion, which is so uncomfortable but so integral. It doesn’t sit comfortably with me to talk about myself (she says in an interview about herself) but I’ve learnt that you have to believe in yourself before others will believe.
Who are your ‘go to’ inspirational Instagrammers/Pinteresters?
You know what? I’m so behind in the times. I’ve only just set up a Pinterest account and I rarely visit it. I’m a little bit confused about how it works. Don’t tell.
Instagram though- geeeeeeez. There are too many inspirational grammers. @ladynoel covers it all. She’s an unreal artist, she is a mother to 2 incredible boys and girl knows how to take a photo!
Another feed I LOVE is @laurablythman she’s incredibly clever, very funny and also a hard working Mumma. Her art is colourful and inspiring.
I could go on…. Heres a small list
@kenzijaws
@holliemartin
@littletienda
@twiceblessed
Seriously- just go to my feed and follow everyone I do. HA. It’s worth it!
How do you stay focused and motivated on days where you’d love to stay in bed?
Ugh. Bed. I love bed. A real lot. I don’t have the luxury to stay in bed even if I wanted to. My two busy loud children would make sure of that.
There are days though when I don’t feel like weaving. When my waiting list seems overwhelming and impossible. But I like to have those days to keep me level. I’m thankful that I have people out there who dig my work enough to actually wait for it. So I guess I just give myself a little kick in the butt and get to it. Instagram is a great way to stay accountable too!
If you had to choose between Les Miserables with Julia Gilliard or Coldplay with the Pope, what would it be?
Les Miserables with Coldplay???
I LOVE Coldplay. Much.
How do you relax and unwind after a ridiculous day?
Most days are ridiculous. Either ridiculously busy or ridiculously great. Me and Chris (not Chris Martin but my husband) get on the couch with a wine and some TV. Some of our faves are Parks and Recreation, Arrested Development, The Mighty Boosh, IT Crowd and Black Books.
If you could say anything to someone starting their own business what would it be?
Hmmmmmm. Don’t let people take shit off you for free. Everyone will ask. As much as it might be in your nature to be generous, say no!
Where to next for Chief and Kewpie?
I’m hoping (this just in!) to start some weaving workshops towards the end of the year. So that’s exciting.
Are there any kids/interiors trends you can forecast for 2014/2015?
I hope against hope that this indoor plant thing gets taken way too far and people start living in trees.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your Chief and Kewpie journey?
Meeting excellent people. Honestly. The community of wonderful art loving people I have met already is amazing. Many more to meet!
Thanks so much for having me visit your blog. Xxxx
Thank YOU Kel for being so candid and brilliant to chat to ❤
Instagram @chiefandkewpie
Baby Bean Design 