Artist of the Month - November

November features an artist with an obsession for unusual textiles and an infallabile sense of taste. Sewing, stitching and quilting are her fervour but the thing that passionates her the most is fabric-hunting. Tarryn Stewart is the owner of 'She Chases Butterflies', a cute little brand that produces bags, pouches, quilts and the like. Originally from South Africa, she now lives in Malta and now works on her craft mostly on customer orders. Read her story here:

1. When did you start creating?

I started creating from a young age. I was very lucky to be exposed to art, sewing and creative activities throughout my childhood. My grandparents ran a creative business and my mom and aunt taught me to love sewing when I was a child.

2. How did you start the business and how did it evolve today?

My craft business started when I was in my early twenties, I sold bags, greeting cards and jewellery made from recycled paper at a craft market in South Africa. I decided to stop with the markets after I became a full time primary school teacher, as there simply wasn’t enough time to do everything! When I moved to Malta 4 years ago I stopped creating for a while because I had left all of my tools and materials back home. I slowly began purchasing fabric and became quite involved in the inspiring quilting community on Instagram. I was so inspired that I decided to risk bringing my sewing machine to Malta on one of my trips back, fortunately it arrived here in one piece. I quickly amassed a large stash of beautiful fabrics that were begging to be used. I wasn’t working, so I decided to give the artisans markets a try.

3. How do you manage the work/life balance?

Since returning to work full time last November, I have had less time to create. I do find that this fact has made me more productive in terms of spending a concentrated amount of time making a production line of sorts. I cut everything at once, then iron, then sew all the zippers etc. It’s definitely a more effective way of getting things done than before.

4. What has been your best moment so far?

I’m not sure if I can pinpoint a ‘best moment’ so far. But I have made some wonderful friends since embarking on my crafty journey in Malta and on Instagram. It’s been so incredible to connect with a group of ladies with similar interests who support and cheer each other on.

5. What is your one piece of advice to other handmade sellers?

It’s easy to feel discouraged after a ‘bad market’. It happens. I find it’s best not to dwell on the negatives and rather just try to enjoy the day (above mentioned friends help with this!). Learn from your mistakes, try to figure out your crowd, and show up to the next market.

6. What's your favourite motto for motivation?

This is one I came across earlier this week, and I love it! Simply, ‘put on your positive pants’.

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