Meet the Mafia – Clare Nicolson
This week we we turn the screws on mafiosi Clare Nicolson:
Why did you start in business/crafting?
- I studied textiles at university and always wanted to work for myself so this has always been the plan! I’ve been crafting since I was little and I’ve always wanted to have a creative career. I also hate being told what to do, so becoming self employed was the perfect solution.
How did you come up with your crafty name?
- Hmmm, well there wasn’t much thought put into ‘clare nicolson’. I toyed with lots of names at the start but always came back to that!
Is your glass half full or half empty?
- Always half full. Usually with cider…
What is your favourite thing that costs nothing?
- Most of the things I like cost money! Hugs are free. I like hugs.
Where do you find inspiration for your work?
- Obviously I’m heavily inspired by birds but I generally just love pattern. I look at vintage wallpapers, fabrics and ceramics, children’s story books, packaging and stamps.
Top 5 desert-island essentials?
- Eyeliner, ipod, a pen, paper and probably some more eyeliner.
What is the ugliest most pitiful thing you’ve ever made?
- I made a pretty disgusting mac & cheese with hotdogs last week which I’m not particularly proud of. It seemed like a really good idea at the time.
What have you made that you’re most proud of?
- I recently embroidered Kris Kristofferson as a prize for a friend’s party. It only took me a few days to complete but I was so happy with the way it turned out. It’s also surprisingly fun to embroider a beard.
Favourite biscuit?
- Wah! there’s too many! Milano cookies! Chips Ahoy! Hobnobs!
What crafts do you still want to learn?
- I’d like to get into printing again and papercutting, and would love to learn how to knit properly.
What is your idea of a perfect day?
- Sleeping late, then having some delicious breakfast, going shopping and exploring in vintage shops and markets stopping along for some cakes along the way, dressing up and having a great dinner then going out with friends.
What do you do in your day-to-day life, other than being a mafioso?
- At the minute I just run clarenicolson.com but I’m moving house in 2 weeks so I’m spending a lot of time planning how I’m going to decorate as well as buying furniture and fridges!
What is your favourite crafting tool?
- I have to have my sewing machine for the business but I couldn’t live without my embroidery hoop and needles.
What are your plans for the future?
- I want to keep building up the business and make it a massive success. I’d love a shop and a separate studio. My current plan is to get my new house featured in a magazine, and to get a cat and call him Maurice.
Thanks Clare!
Pop on over to Clare Nicolson right now for some vintage inspired goodies to make your home happy.
