Llew of weave company Hope & Buddy is one of those bright happy people that everyone seems to know and everyone loves to be around. When I had a chat with her about her businesses and family-life juggle, her candid answers provided insight into something many of us struggle with.
I found her openness particularly refreshing in this Insta-perfect world and was left with a feeling of rawness and honesty that I am so pleased to be able to share with you here…
You have 2 kids, a web development and content business, have written a book… how on earth do you fit in Hope & Buddy weaving?!
Weaving, macramé and crochet are my de-stress tool. It is something I do to distract me from devices, and to keep my brain happy. I love creating, but as I spend most of my working hours in my website business, I have to leave the crafting to nights. You will usually find me on the lounge after dinner with some sort of project in my hand.
What Inspired You To Start Weaving?
I was pregnant with my first baby and whilst pregnant, I wanted to make something for my little bub. My mum had always knitted but I found it a bit hard to do, so she got me into crocheting. It was easier for me to learn and I managed to make a baby blanket out of crocheted squares. Then I started to make them for friends as gifts when they were having their babies. Not long after that I thought maybe I could try to sell some, and Hope & Buddy was born.
Where Did The Name ‘Hope & Buddy’ Come From?
The name comes from my kids – My daughters middle name is Hope & my son’s nickname is Buddy.
Which Are Your Favourite Colour Combo’s?
Bright colours! I love colour, and I love to spread colour throughout the world. I also love putting colour shades together that make each other stand out. Like coral & navy, or watermelon & purple, really out-there bright colour combos.
What Is Your Favourite Weave Technique?
My favourite weaving technique is the Soumak. It is the weaving action that creates a plaited look. I think it is so cute and can be achieved with thick or thin yarn, depending on the look of your creation.
Tell Me A Bit About Your Book ‘Crazy Mummy Syndrome’
I wrote Crazy Mummy Syndrome back in 2014 as part of a course I was doing. It is about my time dealing with Post Natal Depression, and depression in general. I always knew there was something affecting me, but never knew what it was. My book was a way to verbalise all the emotions and it also takes you on a funny journey to finding a way to manage those thoughts in your head. I still deal with depression & anxiety every day, and my craft is a huge way of keeping my brain in check or ‘happy’.
How Do You Follow Trends?
Instagram. I love Instagram. I follow so many amazingly talented crafters and I love seeing what colours they use, what fabrics/yarns, and the process they go through. They are all so inspirational! I feel like with craft, there is no one trend happening at any one time, you go where your creativity takes you.
What Sets Your Creations Apart?
I try not to make too many of the same design as it is really hard to be creative if I am just making the same design over & over again. And because I love colour combos so much I’m always trying new shades.
Will You Be Running More Workshops?
Yes, I’m currently mapping out workshops for 2020 now.
What’s On Your Wish List For 2020?
I’d love to open my own little space where I can sell my items & teach others so they can carry on my love of craft.
You can find Llew’s creations over on Hope & Buddy, a curated collection on TUBU Kids and at local market events and workshops.
