Tell us about your business:

Pollykinz Designs began 3 years ago, creating handmade bed linen and accessories for babies and children. Since then, the range has expanded to now include clothing and hats for children, with a particular love for creating designs for boys.

What inspired you to start your business?

My first born son. Like every mother I was excited about putting together his nursery. I struggled to firstly find bed linen for a basinet, and when it came to him moving into a cot, I could not find a suitable unisex option. With the arrival of my second son, my passion to create handmade products for boys grew and hence the development of clothing and hat designs transpired.

What is the most satisfying part of what you do?

Seeing the designs I imagine in my head come to life and having elated and complimentary customers. When I receive such lovely feedback from my customers, it really does bring a smile on my face from one ear to the other!

Polykinz-Designs

Have you tried something in business that didnt work as planned, or on the flip side “ worked out better than expected?

I introduced a range of Newsboy hats for boys this Winter as an alternative option to woollen beanies. To my surprise the demand for a warm non-woollen hat was larger than I anticipated. What I also didnt expect were girls to the love the style as much as the boys, so hence a limited number of designs suitable for girls was introduced.

What would be your best tip for someone thinking about selling their handcrafted goods?

Once your hobby has become your work, then you need to treat it like a business. That may sound daunting but there are a plethora of handmade products readily available through websites like Etsy and Madeit, so your potential market and number of competitors have increased significantly.

What is your favourite item you make?

The new range of long short styles for boys this coming Summer. More designs will be unveiled over the next month or so, however I love the Smarty Pants design that is currently available.

Polykinz-Designs

Any personal or business highlights in the last year:

The increasing number of products that have found homes overseas “ its a fabulous feeling to know my brand and products are now in countries such as Norway and the United States.

3 things about you (not business related) that people might not know:

I am a pianist, drummer and singer.

My husband and I own a small sheep breeding property.

My mother taught me to sew.

Polykinz-Designs

Meet the Maker – Pollykinz Designs

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