SK Handcrafted

Sonja from SK Handcrafted has been sewing since she was just 7. Her grandmother taught her to hand stitch before finally allowing her to progress onto a 1950's sewing machine and she fell in love with the creative process.

When she began making her unique bubble rugs for her own children, her friends began asking her to make them for their children too and soon the orders started coming in. So from one mummy to another, SK Handcrafted lovingly creates your little one's very own bubble rug to cherish and enjoy.

About SK Handcrafted

How did SK Handcrafted come about?
It all started over a cup of tea. A friend and I were discussing how I could incorporate

my bubble rugs into a business, and it has progressed from there.

What was your inspiration behind SK Handcrafted?
My Aunty showed me how to create a bubble rug, and from then on I have loved
creating bubble rugs for my family and friends. With a love of sewing and wonderful

support from my home, it makes my dream possible.

Tell us about your product range?
Our range is manly focused on kiddies, while keeping in mind their mummas. My main products are the bubble rugs and pram liners. I also create bibs, the mummy nappy clutch, aprons, fabric storage boxes, baby blankets, throws and much more. We do also take custom orders.
Our products are created with quality cotton, organic cotton, polyester materials, and our bubble rugs and pram liners are filled with sheep's wool.

What is the best part about working on SK Handcrafted?

Being able to work the hours I want while working around my family in the comfort of my own home.

…..and the hardest?
The hardest part of SK to date was working Fulltime, completing orders and juggling family life. Also having the kids at my feet while trying to complete orders.

Where do you make your products? Tell us about your space?
My products are handcrafted in a home/office space located in Burleigh, Gold Coast.
My office/workspace is shared with my children, we have created a working space for SK in our sewing / playroom.

What are your dreams for SK Handcrafted? Where would you like to see SK Handcrafted in 12 months/ 5 years?
In 12 months, i'd love to see a wider customer base and regular orders / custom orders. Five years, it would be great to have SK Handcrafted established as a successful local brand and recognised nationally.

A typical day for you involves?
Usually running around with the kids, school runs, sporting activities, coffee catch up's with

friends and work. When I have spare time im in the sewing room or delivering orders.

How do you manage to fit everything in with young children?
I found it hard while I was working fulltime, now I just create after hours,

days off or while my son is having his day time nap.

What advice do you have for others who are dreaming about starting their

own handmade business?
Be prepared to spend the dollars to get yourself started, research, take

your time, plan and give yourself realistic goals. Utilise resources like

social media and don’t be afraid to get started.

How can people get their hands on your products?
SK products can be found on Instagram and Facebook.

A Bigcartel page is coming soon. I will also be located at a few local markets in the new year.

How can people connect with you?

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/S-K-Handcrafted-1558572081037171/
Instagram: skhandcrafted

About you

What is your work/life background?
I grew up in Cairns on a sugar cane farm and moved to the Gold Coast in 1999.
My working life has been in Customer Service and Human Resources.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
It had always been a dream of mine to work in the Airline industry, as cabin crew.

Who do you look up to? Who inspires you?
I look up to my grandmother, she taught me to sew when I was just 7 on her 1950's Singer. She made me do the hard yards.  I had to hand stich everything before I got to touch the sewing machine.  Plus it was a great time to bond and learn her life lessons on sewing.   We still have a great relationship, where if I need advise or some how-to in the kitchen or sewing machine, I just give her a call.

When your not working on SK Handcrafted, where would we find you?
Local beaches, hanging with the kids or hunting new fabric shops.

Favourite place to visit on the Gold Coast?
For the kids our beautiful beaches, Broadwater parklands, we are always

trying to find places for new adventures.

Favourite place to eat on the Gold Coast?
Good Wolf at Miami, Plantation House in West Burleigh, The Old Tea House

Gallery in Mudgeeraba and Currumbin

Favourite coffee/juice shop?
The Fruit and Veg shop in James Street, they make amazing juices.
When I need a place to catch up with friends or an excuse to get out of the house.  I love visiting Hide n Seek at Miami or when I feel like a drive I support a friends coffee shop in currumbin, Salt Mill.

What are your favourite Gold Coast made businesses?
I just love homemade/crafted items from Bubbles Lane; Sarah makes the most amazing baby decor, Tarasea and Bluebay; they make stunning boho inspired pieces  and lastly Vintage Timber.

Favourite quote you live by?
Finish each day and be done with it.  You have done what you could - Ralph Waldo Emerson