Oh the Places You'll Go! Giveaway
I recently had a chat to designer Adina Levy of The Cumulus Factory about her new range. The Cumulus Factory designs and creates cushions, tote bags and textiles in Sydney, Australia. She has teamed up with Brisbane Photographer Kristina Childs to create a collection of photographic cushions, 'Oh The Places You'll Go'. It struck a chord with me. Firstly, I love almost all creative homewares, I love textiles, I love photography and I love, love, love cushions (Just ask my husband!) Secondly, I had just had my own tropical adventures so the subject matter took me straight back to the crystal waters of Kota Kinabalu. Sigh!
So while I sift and sort through all my photos from the trip away so I can bring you highlights of each location, enjoy the beauty of the 'Oh The Places You'll Go' range and a quick Q&A with Adina.
(P.S. Who doesn't love all this social media for putting you in contact with people you would just never have met in your own little bubble of the world?!)
Also, as a bonus, Adina is graciously giving one lucky reader their choice of the 'Oh The Places You'll Go' photographic images as an A4 print. Check out the end of this post for competition details. For everyone else, head on over to their Kickstarter page to grab yourself a cushion (or four) before the deadline closes. The cushion covers are available for pre-order until 4th December 2013, with delivery in time for Christmas for Australian orders. I still can't decide between the 'Juliet' and the 'On the water' designs - with only a few days left!
R: What path lead you into your own cushion and fabric design business?
A: I've always enjoyed creating, from sewing, to collage, knitting and more. A few years ago I considered selling my goods, but it wasn't until late 2012 when I was busily saving money for a trip to South America that I officially started The Cumulus Factory.
R: How did the collaboration with photographer Kristina Childs come about?
A: We've been friends for over 8 years, and we've both watched each others' businesses grow. I adore the atmosphere that she captures in her photos, and thought it would be nice to join forces and share our combined skills with the world!
R: Who are your current favourite Australian designers or artists?
A: Earlier in the year I spent a couple of days in Melbourne and had the most amazing time being inspired by all the creative minds and products I found there. I made a pinterest board in honour of this! (you can see this here). Particularly notable designers were Spacecraft Studios who do stunning things with screen-printing, and Harvest Textiles who love neon, run workshops and have a very interactive creative model.
R: What's up-and-coming in the world of interiors and soft furnishings?
A: I think digital fabric printing is growing and growing, as the technology improves and becomes cheaper and more accessible. As I spend a lot of time on Etsy, I have certainly seen a rise in custom, one-off designs. I think there is a shift away from mass-produced items, and people are placing more and more value on individualised, hand-made, unique objects.
R: What's next for The Cumulus Factory?
A: Once my Kickstarter project with Kristina is finished, I'll be working on some other collaborations with other talented photographers and artists. Also, my focus is shifting towards more custom designs! I have the most fun when I'm working with a customer to design their perfect cushion/bag/fabric etc. I love being able to deliver unique items that I know are exactly what that person wants for their couch. I have lots of areas that I'd love to learn about, in time. Screen-printing is certainly one skill I'd love to have! This time of year is perfect for reflecting on my business and where it will go for 2014. Stay tuned!
{Photographic images by Kristina Childs for the 'Oh, the Places You'll Go' series by The Cumulus Factory}
All you have to do to WIN is comment below before midnight AEST Wednesday 4th December 2013. Tell me which of The Cumulus Factory's new 'Oh The Places You'll Go!' designs is your favourite and why you would love one of these prints brightening up your wall. The winner will be chosen at random via random.org but it is always fun to get creative with your answers. Competition is open to readers Worldwide so spread the word!
Good luck!
xo Mo
Disclaimer: Although the featured company is providing the prize, I am not being gifted anything and would not feature the products if I didn't love them and want to share them with you 
