Today we have the pleasure of getting to know Saffron from Saffron Craig a little bit better, so Saffron¦
Tell us about your business:
I am a print and pattern designer based in Sydney Australia
What inspired you to start your business?
I was inspired to create my own range of fabrics when I wanted to change the direction of my fashion business at the time and focus on what I love doing, and that is designing patterns. I also found it hard to find contemporary fabrics with bold prints, so I decided to make my own!
Is there an interesting anecdote behind your business name?
The business is under my name. But when my mum was pregnant with me she could not get enough Saffron cakes, so I was her Saffron cake when I was born. I suppose it was at the same time as Donovan˜s Mellow yellow song.
What is the most satisfying part of what you do?
I love it when I have a new idea and I turn off all distractions and focus on the creating of that idea.
Have you tried something in business that didnt work as planned, or on the flip side “ worked out better than expected?
Selling on Etsy did not really work for me. My own website has been much better. Good photos get a good result. Newsletters work really well for me as well.
Selling fabric at markets where people look for products is also not something Ill do again!
I am constantly experimenting with what works in my business. I feel as though I have not got a formula yet. But I am working on it. To be honest every time I receive a positive email or my online shop has a sale I do a little happy dance.
What would be your best tip for someone thinking about selling his or her handcrafted goods?
Just start, it is better to have started than to regret it later. Take a leap of faith and go for it. Be original and creative, love every moment of your day.
What is your favourite item you make?
My favourite item is the new range of fabrics that is just about to come out. I love the newness of it. So the Banksia Bloom range I am really excited about, particularly the Kookaburra River, I really love designing large scale prints.
Any personal or business highlights in the last year:
Its been a great year for me. I was chosen as one of 10 Australian artists to create a design for the 50 year anniversary of Lego Australia, which were recreated with Lego blocks and exhibited all over Australia.
Also switching my production to 100 percent GOTS approved organic cotton and being supported by my customers. Finally, taking my designs to the US and receive great feedback was also very reassuring.
3 things about you (not business related) that people might not know:
- I know how to milk a cow.
- I love sailing.
- I have more freckles than anyone I have ever met. Sun kisses I like to call them.
Thank you Saffron, it has been a pleasure meeting you, the maker!
