Tell us about your business:
Korinas Kreations began in 2011 and is a home based small business. I only use Funky Friends Factory patterns to make all the toys and only good quality prewashed fabric and stuffing is used. Each toy is made with love and only perfectly made toys are sold.
What inspired you to start your business?
I kind of fell into my business as it only really started out as a desire to learn to sew. I had just received my first ever sewing machine and stumbled across the Funky Friends Factory shop at my local market.
I met Pauline the pattern designer and got talking to her about her business and the toys she designs. Her passion for what she does left a lasting impression with me. I left that day with one of her patterns and I absolutely fell in love with it. I then made a few toys for my daughters and friends and so I bought a couple more patterns. One day my husband suggested I try selling them at a market. Needless to say 2 years later I have 55 patterns, attend 5 markets a month, stock 4 shops in Brisbane and sell online.
Im now a SAHM due to the fact my husband works overseas for long periods and Ive now converted my desire to learn to sew into a desire to make good quality toys for those who love handmade.
Is there an interesting anecdote behind your business name?
When I was thinking about what to call my business I found choosing the œright name quite difficult. I wanted something that would be noticeable and different. It was my husband who suggested I call it Korinas Kreations because basically I made them so they were my œKreations.
What is the most satisfying part of what you do?
The most satisfying part of what I do is knowing that I’ve created something different and something that you cant just buy anywhere. Every toy I make is unique and it doesn’t matter how many times I make one from the very same pattern they are all different.
Have you tried something in business that didn’t work as planned, or on the flip side “ worked out better than expected?
I took the huge plunge this year to put my toys in various shop locations around Brisbane. This is probably one of the best things I have done so far in my business as its been very successful for me.
What would be your best tip for someone thinking about selling their handcrafted goods?
Make sure you are passionate about handmade and what you are making. Keep it original and NEVER copy someone elses ideas.
What is your favourite item you make?
My favourite item to make has to be the Sugar Plum Fairy Ballerinas. They are just adorable to make and I just love how animated they become once their cute little faces are sewn on.
Meet the Maker – Korina’s Kreations
Any personal or business highlights in the last year:
Being featured on madeit.com.au regularly as Staff Picks and in the Monday New Finds section this year has been fantastic. I’m pretty proud of that as there are so many talented creators out there.
3 things about you (not business related) that people might not know:
I am a SAHM with 3 kids aged 17, 11 & 4.
I LOVE freckles chocolates.
I have a fear of spiders.
