Feature Friday: Teaka Marie

As a children's clothing designer, I am constantly looking for my next inspiration. It could come from a line of music, colors in a work of art, or the weather outside my front door. I am constantly amazed and inspired by other handmade artists in particular, so I decided to begin an on-going series featuring some fellow artisans who create beautiful things with their own two hands.

My first interview is with Teaka from Teaka Marie, a line of beautifully designed women's clothing and accessories. Everything from fabric choices to photography is carefully crafted to create this incredible shopping experience inspired by the Canadian prairies and vintage styles. I fell in love with her charming design aesthetic of vintage elements that are highlighted in wearable updated creations, and I hope you enjoy her shop as much as I do!

1. How would you describe your art?
The art of sewing it something I'm constantly learning and because of this I guess I would describe my "art" as a constant learning curve. It's hard to not get distracted by other designs and want to incorporate their styles into my own. Yet I try to always remain true to my first love and keep my designs simple. This also helps keep life manageable as I have to be able to grade the pieces in small, medium, and large size. That being said I enjoy when I'm able to challenge myself and try new designs. That's what keeps sewing interesting.

1. Mustard Yellow Wrap Cardigan With Elbow Patches

2. Bow Tank Top

3. Mustard Yellow Plaid Blouse

2. Name three adjectives that describe your artistic point of view.
I'm not sure I have an artistic point of view but let's give it a shot.
1) Vintage prairie 2) Simple 3) Girly

3. What inspires your designs?
My inspiration comes from memories during my childhood, growing up on a Saskatchewan prairie farm. I seem to go back to that, and try to picture each garment in that setting. Sometimes it's hard for me to narrow down designs, so when I get overwhelmed I try to imagine whether that garment would look like suitable standing nostalgic like in a field, or playing by a barn. My designs tends to be simple and hopefully cute. Nothing modern or overly bright.

1. Flannel Infinity Scarf with Cuff

2. Autumn Skirt with Shaped Waist Band

3. Gingham Button Down Dress

4. What is your favorite item currently for sale in your shop?
Oh this is a hard one because I love so many of my pieces. They become like my babies after spending so much time with them. But to make this bearable for you guys my two favorite pieces are my Scallop Hem Shirt. I wore mine own so many times this summer. I love this shape and fit of this top.
www.etsy.com/listing/151914632/scallop-hem-shirt?ref=shop_home_active
I also love the Ivory Pocket Dress. This one is simply adorable and I love the baggy fit when first put on and how girly it looks when tied up with a belt.
www.etsy.com/listing/104778736/ivory-pocket-dress

5. Do you have any occupational hazards or mishaps?
There are not many hazards or mishaps I've experienced. I know some gals can find their finger sewn to their fabric if their not careful but thankfully I've been safe so far. I think the worst thing is being in my sewing room and knowing I've dropped a dozen sharp pins over a few months and never being able to find them. I know they're some where's in the carpet. I pray my eyes find these pins first before my feet. Haha!

1. Caramel Brown Plaid Blouse

2. Peter Pan Collar Shirt

3. Color Block Dress, Brown and Purple

 

6. Where can people find you and your art online?
You can find my shop at www.teakamarie.etsy.com, for updates and giveaways check out my Facebook page www.facebook.com/Teakamaire and my blog at www.lifelikehoney.ca