Where did Cupcakes for Clara come from? And who on earth is Clara?
Cupcakes for Clara was born one lunchtime at work, I was just doodling and Clara stumbled onto the page. A cheeky, bossy little red-head with a great need for attention. Since that day two years ago, she has never given me a moments peace! Before long Macy popped along, determined not to be outdone by her twin sister.
Clara and Macy were fully formed and ready to spring into action. So I had a go at making a doll. A Clara doll. It was pretty rough, but the character shone through, and I was so inspired that I made more. I had this image in my head of little fat round animals - all soft and squooshy - and not minding being little fatties at all. So I made a robin for my Grandma's birthday, and she just loved it. This of course made me eager to try more, and more, and more. All of them designed as Clara's toys - she wouldn't have it any other way!
The reaction to Clara has been amazing. I am in awe of how much people love her. She is bossy, and rude and often a little bit mean, but she has a good heart, and I guess people can relate to her. She speaks her mind in a way that most people wouldn't dare, and gets away with it! But Macy is loved too, just in a different way. And they are real. Children who fight, and say naughty things, and don't always like their twin sisters, but it's okay because they are quite nice really!
Which camera do you use? And what about editing software?
I have a Nikon D40. I love it! I bought it second hand from ebay a couple of years ago, and it's just a fantastic little DSLR. I also snap a lot on my iphone - it's always with me so handy for those 'in the moment' shots.
I edit with Photoshop. And Snapseed both on my phone & my mac.
What about packaging? Are you eco-friendly?
I try to be as eco-friendly as possible. Using local suppliers & recycled or biodegradable products where possible.
- Paper dolls are packaged with 100% recycled envelopes, and popped inside a biodegradable corn-starch bags.
- Post-it notes, notecards & greetings cards are also packed in biodegradable corn-starch bags.
- Make-your-own kits come in 100% recycled boxes.
- Original toys come packaged in their own re-usable 100% cotton bags, which I have handmade.
I am working towards using only recycled card for all of the printed material, but at the moment it isn't quite there yet.
Do you make custom orders?
Not at the moment I'm afraid - sorry! I'm a bit too busy trying to build up my product range & work on pitching my first picture book.
What about wholsesale?
Absolutely! Send me an email at [email protected] for more information.
Can I suggest some ideas for products, Clara poses, outfits etc.
Please do! I would love to hear them. You can email me at [email protected] or leave comments. Thank you!
