Toni Coward of Make It Perfect: Designer Interview

Toni What is your idea of perfect happiness?
“No life stress! No deadlines, appointments and bills to pay! With lots of time to lie on the beach and each chocolate...”

What is your greatest fear?
“Moths...maybe not my greatest fear but I am really, really afraid of them! Especially that dust on their wings, it freaks me out.”

What is your favorite color?
“Most consistently, green, but I do go through short-lived colour crushes from time to time.”


My favorite photo of myself:

What trait do you most deplore in yourself?
“Impatience.”

What trait do you most deplore in others?
“Belittling.”

What is your favorite journey?
“The one I am on at the moment.”

On what occasion do you lie?
“To keep someone happy - only over unimportant matters.”

What do you dislike most about your appearance?
“Probably my ears - I had them pinned back when I was 8 years old and they are dodgy!”

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
“Maybe not the most overused, but I do say (and think) this a lot: "I could make that!"”

What is your greatest regret?
“I actually can't think of anything that I have really regretted in life, I have a bit of a "what will be, will be" attitude and try not to dwell on how things could have been and focus my energy on the future instead.”


My Favorite thing I've made: I love this little Liberty top I made for Lil, then it got lost on our last family holiday to New Zealand - so, so sad! They never lose the daggy clothes…

What or who is the greatest love of your life?
“My husband and four small-frys.”

What talent would you most like to have?
“I learned to play the piano when I was a child/teenager, then I stopped and haven't tried to play again since I finished High School. I would love to be able to play the piano like a pro!”

What is your current state of mind?
“Tired and foggy (I have a baby!)”

Where would you like to live?
“Somewhere green and lush, with a little bit of farmland, but not too isolated from the conveniences of shops!.”

What is your favorite occupation?
“I love what I do now! Being a Mum is so fulfilling (and really challenging at times!) and I love that I can mix in Make It Perfect "work" to keep me sane...it doesn't even feel like work most of the time. I think any occupation that doesn't feel like work is a winner!”

What is the quality you most like in a man?
“Protectiveness.”

What do you most value in your friends?
“I love that I can say what I want without them judging me.”


My most treasured possession: gotta be the family!

Who are your favorite artists?
“Of the fabric design variety...Naomi Ito, Erin McMorris, Heather Ross, Lizzy House...actually that was a bad category to choose, I could go on and on!”

Who are your heroes in real life?
“My grandparents.”

What are your favorite motto?
"Kindness begins with me."

How would you like to die?
"Happy."

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Jill Dorsey of Made with Moxie: Designer Interview

What is your idea of perfect happiness?
“Laying in a hammock with a quilt on the beach with margaritas and my loves. And looking fabulous in a bathing suit helps.”

What is your greatest fear?
“Out living my children.”

What is your favorite color?
“Green. Then orange. But I seriously love them all. ”


My favorite photo of myself: This was taken the first time I flew to California and met my boyfriend's (now my husband's) whole family. We had been out drinking and polka-ing at Oktoberfest in Huntington Beach with them all the night before.

What trait do you most deplore in yourself?
“Being emotional. I want to be a robot.”

What trait do you most deplore in others?
“Lack of empathy. ”

What is your greatest extravagance?
“Reading"

What is your favorite journey?
“My quest to suck all the marrow of life.”

What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
“Patience."

On what occasion do you lie?
“When it makes a better story to tell.”

What do you dislike most about your appearance?
“My impossibly straight hair.”

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
“True story", "in any case”, and "freakin' awesome".

What is your greatest regret?
“Quitting piano lessons as a kid. It's my greatest and only.”

What or who is the greatest love of your life?
“Danny, Jane and Jimmy.”

What talent would you most like to have?
“To be an amazing super fly dancer. And to be fluent in many languages."

My favorite thing I made myself: Okay, so I am proud of these sweet Star Wars costumes that I made that landed me on the front page of Reddit, but what I am really proud of making is these kiddos. I mean, I made two human beings! And smart and cute ones at that.

What is your current state of mind?
“Sponge.”

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
“I would have an amazing metabolism.”

If you were to die and come back as a person or thing, what do you think it would be?
“A man.”

Where would you like to live?
“In a renovated chapel on the Big Island of Hawaii.”

What is your favorite occupation?
“Shop keeper.”

What is the quality you most like in a man?
“I have to pick just one? Ugh. Character. And a great kisser.”

What is the quality you most like in a woman?
“Self acceptance.”

What do you most value in your friends?
“Their ability to cook fabulous foods and drink fine beers.”

My most treasured possessions: I would be heartbroken to loose my photographs. These are the walls of the stairway in my house. I get to relive my all my life experiences looking through my old photographs. My childhood, my family, my relationships, my adventures...they're always right there.

Who are your favorite artists?
“Salvador Dali, Frida Kahlo, Baz Lurhmann, Cake, Claire McCardell, Bjork, Monica Solario-Snow”

Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
“Laura Ingalls Wilder"

Who are your heroes in real life?
“Those who put the needs of others before their own."

What are your favorite motto?
"Dare to be different."

How would you like to die?
"I would not like to die. You'll have to wrench this life from me. "

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Heather Lou of Closet Case Files: Designer Interview

What is your idea of perfect happiness?
“A stack of books, a hammock, a cottage by a lake, filtered sunlight and a light breeze”

What is your greatest fear?
“Environmental collapse”

What is your favorite color?
“Coral, cobalt, kelly green, mustard, white, grey, black”


My favourite photo of myself: Technically not a photo, I know. I was bizarrely lucky enough to be painted in watercolour by two very dear friends, both times with weird things on my face. The one on the left was a birthday gift from my best bud Dan Bueller. He painted it from a snapshot on one of the funnest days of my life, when I got my face painted and ran around like a 5 year old high on sugar with my pals at a county fair. The one on the right was part of a beautiful series by David Shaw. He took photos of all his friends wearing these digitally printed masks he made, and then painstakingly painted huge portraits from them. I am blessed to be surrounded by creative, gifted people.

What trait do you most deplore in yourself?
“My inability to do nothing without feeling guilty about it”

What trait do you most deplore in others?
“Cruelty and selfishness”

What is your greatest extravagance?
“Butter"

What is your favorite journey?
“The one I'm on”

What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
“Moderation"

On what occasion do you lie?
“Whenever I tell myself I "need" more fabric”

What do you dislike most about your appearance?
“The grey hairs that are growing in at an alarming rate”

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
“The ones that get beeped on television”

What is your greatest regret?
“That I didn't travel more when I was young and free as a bird”

What or who is the greatest love of your life?
“Learning. And Guillaume.”

What talent would you most like to have?
“To be a teleporting, multi-lingual jazz pianist"


My favourite thing I've made: This dress is the one thing I would grab from my closet in a fire. The silk was hand painted by my best sewing pal Sallie Oh. We forged a real, true friendship through our blogs and this represents not only our affection for each other, but the love and generosity I've found in the sewing world at large. When I wear it I feel like I'm being hugged by the internet.

What is your current state of mind?
“Striving”

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
“The ability to be in two places at once”

If you were to die and come back as a person or thing, what do you think it would be?
“A tree - to be taught stillness, and patience”

Where would you like to live?
“A cottage. Or a treehouse.”

What is your favorite occupation?
“Making”

What is the quality you most like in a man?
“Character”

What is the quality you most like in a woman?
“Character”

What do you most value in your friends?
“Their wisdom”


Favorite object: I couldn't chose just one.... the tea cup is a family heirloom. Apparently a great great great ancestor was evicted from Germany during a pogrom in the 1800s and the only thing my family retained over the years was a set of Limoges tea cups. My grandmother gave one cup and saucer to each of her granddaughters. It got broken by a roommate years ago and was carefully mended by a china repairman. I never drink out of it, but when I hold it in my hands I can feel a few centuries of history. It's precious beyond words. The second object is an antique amethyst ring my mother gave me when I was a teenager. It's the only ring I've never lost and I hope to pass it on to my own daughter one day.

Who are your favorite artists?
“Frida Kahlo, Bill Murray, Joanna Newsom, Vivian Maier, Catherine Keener, Parker Posey, Joni Mitchell, Janet Cardiff, Henry Darger, George Saunders, Bob Dylan, Lynne Ramsay, Neil Young, Jeannette Winterson, Billie Holiday, my friends”

Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
“Anne of Green Gables"

Who are your heroes in real life?
“Anyone who chooses compassion and kindness when the alternative is much easier"

What are your favorite motto?
"Everything works itself out."

How would you like to die?
"With acceptance"

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Sara Curtis of Radiant Home Studio: Designer Interview

What is your idea of perfect happiness?
“Some of the happiest days I can remember were days that we took our little family camping at Mt. Rainier. Dirty children are happy children! No technology, lots of fresh air and exercise, beautiful wildflower meadows, and wildlife everywhere always left us in awe of God’s creation. ”

What is your greatest fear?
“I’m not sure if it’s my greatest fear, but millipedes creeping around my laundry room certainly make me scream the loudest.”

What is your favorite color?
“Teal, blue-green, aqua – my parents used to tease me because everything in my closet was blue. I have branched out since then, but it’s still my go-to color. ”

What trait do you most deplore in yourself?
“I do wish that my words came out of my mouth as clearly as I thought them in my head, especially when speaking to a group of people. ”


Favorite photo of myself: It's not a professional photo, but this was taken last year on our 10th anniversary—still under 30 with 6 kids!

What is your greatest extravagance?
“If I had extra money to burn, I would most likely buy beautiful fabric…and chocolate…“

What is your favorite journey?
“My husband and I had the chance to travel to England this year. I would have loved to stay longer and explore the rest of the country!.”

On what occasion do you lie?
“We always tell our children that they are getting underwear and toothbrushes as birthday and Christmas gifts. ”

What do you dislike most about your appearance?
“This seems so silly… but I wish my eyelashes curled up naturally, instead of having to curl them up everyday. ”

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
"Get down from there. Stop making her scream. Please don’t ask me what we are having for dinner anymore. Go play. Put your shoes on. Who left this here? Clean up your toys. Do you need a diaper change? Yeah…I have 6 kids. "

What is your greatest regret?
“I wish I had known that a degree in art & design would be more useful than a degree in Psychology.”

What or who is the greatest love of your life?
“As a believer in Jesus Christ, I strive to love the Lord above all. But after that, my husband and children have my greatest affection.”

What talent would you most like to have?
“I would still love to learn to play the piano"


Favorite thing I made: I made this dollhouse for my daughter while my husband was away. I loved the challenge of making something with wood instead of fabric.

What is your current state of mind?
“It’s a little bit chaotic here—trying to get into a summer routine, while moving, husband changing careers, and working on some design projects.”

Where would you like to live?
“We love the English seaside! ”

What is your favorite occupation?
“I love sewing and designing things, of course, but taking care of my family is my primary occupation. I did not enjoy working as a bank teller...”


My most treasured possession: mI tried to think about what I would grab in a fire. This is one of many boxes of letters from my husband. We dated long-distance and have made it through several deployments over the years. A large portion of our relationship is recorded in our writing and I definitely treasure his words of love and encouragement to me.

Who are your favorite artists?
“Of the top of my head, I admire the work of Heather Moore (Skinnylaminx) and Anna Maria Horner.”

Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
“I tend to read a lot more non-fiction than fiction, but I am a Jane Austen fan…so Mr. Darcy and Mr. Knightly?”

Who are your heroes in real life?
“I enjoy reading biographies of Christian missionaries and I am often amazed at the strength and courage they display. Two I can think of are Elisabeth Elliot and Helen Roseveare. Elisabeth’s husband was killed by a jungle tribe and she went back with her young daughter to teach them about the love and forgiveness of God. Helen spent many years in Africa sharing her medical knowledge and God’s love with the people there. “

What are your favorite motto?
"Our family motto is “No fun.” Seriously. "

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Jenna Brand: Designer Interview

What is your idea of perfect happiness?
“Beer, husband, and a project done well.”

What is your greatest fear?
“Disappointing my family”

What is your favorite color?
“Deep blue, teal, grey often found in home exteriors.”

What trait do you most deplore in yourself?
“I find it hard to resist getting wrapped up in what other people think of me.”

Favorite photo of myself: Jenna with the pearl earring

What trait do you most deplore in others?
“Being petty”

What is your greatest extravagance?
“Frequent dinners out! “

What is your favorite journey?
“My transformation from 20 to 25: becoming a more peaceful and kind adult was by far my favorite trip.”

What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
“Celebrity. “

On what occasion do you lie?
“When a little fib would save someone from unnecessary pain.”

What do you dislike most about your appearance?
“My muffin top.”

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
"Awesome" & "Yea, no"

What is your greatest regret?
“I try not to regret anything and simply say "I needed that to know what I do now." However, I wish I would've spent more time building female friendships in grade school. I love my girl friends so much now and could've used these types of relationships earlier on.”

What or who is the greatest love of your life?
“My husband, Greg, is the kindest person on the planet who still loves raunchy jokes and swear words. He is absolutely brilliant, while always being humble. I love and admire him, and he inspires me daily.”

What talent would you most like to have?
“I could use more Serenity!"


Favorite thing I made: this jersey jumpsuit I self-drafted

What is your current state of mind?
“In 2014 I've been charged! Ready to tackle more work, more endeavors, and more adventures.”

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
“I wish I could enjoy the moment a bit more: this is a growth area, but I've been improving.”

If you were to die and come back as a person or thing, what do you think it would be?
“A dog with a loving owner. People go nuts over their dogs.”

Where would you like to live?
“I love my home - I'm very close to a lot of family and in a community that values art and togetherness. I could use more mountains, however.”

What is your favorite occupation?
“Bartender.”

What is the quality you most like in a man?
“I like a sense of humor in all humans. For a man specifically I'd say an ability to let go of the unimportant.”

What is the quality you most like in a woman?
“Kindness and a quick wit.”

What do you most value in your friends?
“Smarts, humor, and loyalty.”


My most treasured possession: my back-yard! This is where I play catch with my two boys, where I tend to my garden, where I bake in the sun, and where I drink a beer with my husband.

Who are your favorite artists?
“Changes all the time, but I am currently thinking a lot about the paper work of Matisse.”

Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
“My favorite literary characters are not heros, so I'll turn to television! Leslie Knope, Amy Poehler's character in Parks and Recreation is a terrific smart, giving, and energetic hero. “

Who are your heroes in real life?
“All of the mothers I know. Every mom I meet inspires me.“

What are your favorite motto?
"You don't have to be fearless, but don't let fear control you."

How would you like to die?
"In my sleep, before I am a burden on my loved ones."

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April Rhodes: Designer Interview

What is your idea of perfect happiness?
“Being completely content with all that I am, have and do, just as it is. ”

What is your favorite color?
“Right now it's pale fleshy peach, or black.. or maybe mustard... actually I just can't answer that.”

What is your greatest extravagance?
“Maybe Channel mascara, or brie and these amazing gluten free crackers, Raincoast, that are about $10/box! Yikes."


My favorite photo of myself: If I had to choose a favorite photo of myself I would certainly pick one from when I was little.. I looked just like my daughters or rather they look like I did. Also I was so opinionated about fashion, even then. I liked ripped jeans and too big t-shirts. I have one picture that I can't seem to find.. but I was 3 years old, wearing nothing but underwear and my mothers army boots. It's definitely my favorite photo.

What is your favorite journey?
“Life”

What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
“How could a virtue be overrated?"

On what occasion do you lie?
“When something costs 1.99... I might tell my husband it cost $1 ;)”

What do you dislike most about your appearance?
“I'm 5' 2" and I've always wanted to be taller... sigh. ”

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
“"So" and "awesome" and "so awesome". ”

What is your greatest regret?
“I honestly don't have one.. I have little ones but I try not to dwell on them. It doesn't help anything or anyone.”

What or who is the greatest love of your life?
“My husband, Jeffrey..”

What talent would you most like to have?
“I would love to be able to play the guitar.. or the accordion."


My favorite thing I've made (recently) : It's too hard to pick an ultimate fave, but this Date Night Dress is my favorite recent make.. I pieced the front together with a print form my Arizona fabric collection with some Art Gallery solid, and lace for the flutter sleeves. It is definitely my favorite Date Night Dress ever.

What is your current state of mind?
“Happy :)”

If you were to die and come back as a person or thing, what do you think it would be?
“I would love to come back as a beautiful creature.. a horse or a wolf, something powerful, smart and fast... but I might actually come back as a mouse, who knows.”

Where would you like to live?
“If I weren't so well rooted in my hometown, I would love to venture to Portland or Toronto or Bristol.”

What is your favorite occupation?
“I dont really like the word occupation. Just sounds too serious. ”

What is the quality you most like in a man?
“Compassion and kindhearted humor.”

What is the quality you most like in a woman?
“The same as above.”

What do you most value in your friends?
“Their companionship, encouragement and ability to have fun!!”


My most treasured possession: Sheeesh that's another hard one... but I'd have to say it's my Bernina.

Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
“Sookie Stackhouse and Katniss Everdeen, and Clary Fray. All the smart, tough girls. "

Who are your heroes in real life?
“My parents."

How would you like to die?
"I would prefer to die of old age... but not so old that I'm terribly dependent.. just old enough. It would be nice to lay down and say "Ok I'm done, thanks for the good times!".. is that an option?! "

Looking for the Parcel #3 Inspiration Tour? It's Right Here.
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