Designer of the Month

Canberra based accessory designer & creator of
PRIM AND PRETTY
Shop Handmade’s Designer of the Month!

When did you know you wanted to be an accessory designer?
Well, it just happened. Ever since I can remember I have

been making it a part of my life. It’s ongoing, it doesn’t stop…

I have dabbled in many craft mediums over many years.

The Canberra Handmade Markets and later the Shop have

allowed me to grow this into a successful business.

How would you describe your design style?
 I love to create vintage pieces, such as my pendants,

that have lace and doilies in them. I also have high fashion

pieces that are in the colours of the season.

How does a typical day of work for you go?
In my little studio, that I feel so happy in, I create my pieces.

The mediums I use to make my pieces are quite varied they can

involve sewing, soldering, collage, beading etc. This means

I get a lot of variety, so every day I work in

the studio is different!

What is your creative process when designing a new piece?
I usually just play until I am happy with a certain design.

Rarely is a piece ever made exactly the same again.

How would you like people to feel when they wear your designs?
They tell me they get ‘compliments’ so they are flattered,

and I’m even more flattered! 

What makes your designs unique?
They are all made by me. The materials and beads I have

collected over many years. I have a great ability to see a table

cloth (they would make great scarves) or the lining of a coat

(what a great brooch) in a new light. It is often said that

my colour combinations are stunning.

What is your advice to aspiring designers?
Start small. Just start. I am not big on business planning other than

analysing my last market. I see many people ponder and worry and

never start. I had two designs at my first market, lots of each though!

Then as I grew, I introduced different designs. If they were

popular I made more, if not I stopped. Go with the

lead from your customers.

What products do you currently stock at Shop Handmade?
Brooches (zippers, ribbon, fabric), soldered pendants and cufflinks

with stamps, maps, special words. Necklaces made from ribbon,

fabric, beads and t-shirt material.

Find the varied and vintage accessories by Rachelle ie. Prim and Pretty at
Shop Handmade - City Walk, Canberra City