Creative Aertz showcases the talents of crafter Sonia Foster (née Aerts), who lives and works in a small town in the South Waikato with one husband, two children and a fluffy three legged cat. Her distinctive designs range from brightly coloured hats inspired by sweets and strawberries to more subtle baby knits and sewn soft toys.
What do you make?
I hand craft a wide range of funky hats from baby size right through to adult, tea cosies, fabric bunnies, baby wear, dolls clothes and lots more.
How did you get into your craft?
My Mum taught me everything I know. I started my business when I became a stay-at-home Mum for my sanity and little bit of extra pocket money.
What inspires you?
Everything inspires me – even an acorn on the ground, which was the inspiration for my acorn hat. I like to try and see the world through my children’s eyes and they come up with some wonderful ideas for me.
Your favourite materials, tools and processes?
Wool, acrylic, my large supply of knitting needles and my ratty old notebook that holds all my handwritten patterns are my most treasured items. I also love quilting fabric – I can’t walk into a quilting shop without buying something. I love making lots of different things with the beautiful designs – especially my fabric bunnies and clothing for my daughter.
Your favourite feedback from a customer:
“This is the most gorgeous hat I have ever seen! Thank you for making this especially for me.”
Describe your workspace?
My “dream” workspace would be my own studio and shop but I am waiting to win Lotto for that so at the moment I work from a little corner in the garage, the dining room table, the sofa and the car when hubby is driving.
What are you currently listening to?
Lady Gaga – Born This Way – she’s a bit crazy like me.
Recommend an album:
Love Ed Sheeran – Plus.
Your favourite childhood book?
Without a doubt Cinderella – I still have my old childhood book and love reading it to my kids.
What are you reading now?
I have two books on the go at the moment which I am really enjoying – Growing Great Boys and Growing Great Girls.
Your hero/heroine:
I have two heroes and they are my Mum and Dad. They have both sadly passed and watching them endure their illnesses has made me treasure every day.
A favourite quote: Life is to too short to sweat the small stuff.
Do you have any pets?
Yes, we have a gorgeous three legged seal point Birman called Mishka and he is so soft.
What was the last handmade item you bought?
I bought the most beautiful bright red handbag from Ratbag on Felt – it is just gorgeous and so well made.
Visit Creative Aertz on Felt to check out more of Sonia’s creations, and like the Creative Aertz Facebook page to be the first to hear about new designs!
