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How to: Handmade and Screen Printed Products

What exactly are handmade & screen printed products?

Handmade and Screen Printed Nebulae Linen Coasters
Handmade and Screen Printed Nebulae Linen Coasters

The video at the end of this post is a behind the scenes look at our screen print and handmade process, from preparation to the finished product of our Nebulae linen placemats and coasters.

We have had so many people asking us about what it is we do in the studio. People want to know how our beautiful designs are made and produced. Firstly, they are designed in our Edinburgh studio, by myself, and then screen printed onto either a wallpaper or fabric of the client’s choice or ones in already in our collection. It is then handmade or hand-finished resulting in an end-product that we are very proud of.

However, I still often get a puzzled look from them.

Designing

Designing can take time, as it involves researching the subject or theme of your choice.

There’s then a bit exploration to do after that. This tends to be in the form of drawings, sketches, cutting, pasting in the sketchbook, or on various sheets of paper, card.. or whatever appeals to me at the time.

I might do a separate post from this in the future – just for the designing – several posts perhaps?

Screen Print & Handmade: Eliza in the designing and drawing process
Screen Print & Handmade: Eliza in the designing and drawing process

Preparation

Then there’s the preparation stage, which is 90% of where the production perspiration lies.

We first prepare the fabric or paper that we are going to print on. Then we prepare to translate the designs onto the screens, so that it’s ready for printing.

Screen Print & Handmade: Eliza in the screen preparation process
Screen Print & Handmade: Eliza in the screen preparation process

And then there’s the ink preparation.

Firstly, one must match ones ink to the design or colour swatches one has in mind with lots of mixing and ratio calculations, etc. These inks are then tested in small samples to ensure that they come out in the finish and shade that was planned.

Also, testing for wash-fastness (for fabric) is definitely a must!

Screen Print & Handmade: Ink mixing and testing
Screen Print & Handmade: Ink mixing and testing

Each of the above stages could probably take several blog posts or videos to explain on their own. They are all very time and labour intensive in reality.

But today, we are focusing on a summary only. This will give you a taste of what it looks like in the studio while the making process happens.

How does handmade and screen printing work?

Many have requested how to and behind the scenes videos to explain this process a little better. It is only recently that I have managed to get things going on the video front. So I have decided to make one to demonstrate of how we make our handmade and screen printed coasters as a starting point.

I have been making an effort to remember to record some footage when I am at work in the studio. Footage showing me making and working on the products we have on offer. This has proven to be a great challenge to do. Especially, when you’re so focused on practicing your craft and trying to do a great job, video-ing your process is the last thing your think of.

And now that I have had a stab at video editing, I can say that the footage I have taken from last year has finally made it out to see the light of day!

Here’s one for the curious minds..

I hope this helps in explaining further about what we do and how we do it.

I look forward to all of your constructive feedback. Please let me know what you think so we can come up with more and better videos.

Have a great week everyone!

Eliza

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New Lighting trends

As the night’s are drawing in, it seems a perfect time to focus on the work of some innovative lighting designers.

I was able to take a personal look at some of their work, and trends to look out for, at the ICFF contemporary design showcase event earlier this year.

This combination of walnut sits well with the unique excavation technique employed by New York based In.Sek. Designer Ashira Isreal adds quartz crystal to specially blended concrete, creating a torn window effect for the shade, which in turn casts a sprialing light and soft glow across any space.

In Sek Design, New York, Excavation Dune Pendant
In.Sek Design, New York, Excavation Dune Pendant

Created from painted stainless steel mesh, the apparent simplicity of these Arturo Alvarez designed lamps belies their delicate crafting. Fine pleats form two overlapped layers creating two different lamps full of dynamism – two lively shapes born from one, creating the same movement yet at a different tempo.

Tempo Vivace pendant lamps designed by Arturo Alvarez

I particularly like how Iranian-born designer Ali Siavoshi works with everyday objects, transforming them into light fixtures, whilst injecting a sense of humour into these stylish and innovative displays.

Ali Siavoshi lamps on display at ICFF 2016 New York
Ali Siavoshi lamps on display at ICFF 2016 New York

Another designer who creates extraordinary pieces of art and lighting from ordinary “up-cycled” everyday glass bottles, is Altanta based Kathleen Plate. Her innovative techniques and sophisticated designs sit well within contemporary and stylish restaurant and hotel groups.

Smart Glass Art (SGA) custom chandelier designed by Kathleen Plate
Smart Glass Art (SGA) custom chandelier designed by Kathleen Plate

Zac Ridgely is a trained artist who uses his talent in the medium of light, son of a famed Canadian architect he quickly learned how to navigate his way through architectural drawings. The CRISS-CROSS series was created from a genuine desire to blend art with lighting, and this sculptural piece of cut steel rod is carefully arranged and welded in a seemingly random pattern.

Zac Ridgely's Criss Cross wallsconce

Zac Ridgely’s Criss Cross wallsconce

I hope these inspirational creations will give you some ideas for transforming your living or working spaces.

Moody Monday offers a bespoke design service to complement any projects you might be considering, and I’d be happy to discuss these further, Eliza.

Sources: www.insekdesign.com

www.arturo-alvarez.com

www.alialiali.com

www.sdgconstructiontechnology.com

www.kathleenplate.com

www.ridgelystudioworks.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

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MOODY MONDAY LENDS AUTUMNAL WARMTH TO INTERIORS

The nights are fair drawing in and as evenings get more autumnal, Moody Monday’s innovative collection of bold provocative prints for accessories include this season’s must-have – sumptuous velvet cushions. Perfect for creating a splash of colour, and adding warmth to any sofa.

 

Nebulae Velvet Cushions

 

Debuted at the ICFF New York earlier this year, this collection ‘STELLAR’ is inspired by the boundless hidden beauty of the sky and space. This luxurious, contemporary collection of designs captures the dualistic nature of the skies with a colour palette evoking both dawn and dusk. Vibrant jewel colours accompany mesmerising geometrical patterns paired against contrasting backgrounds.

From the dazzling colours of the Northern Lights to the abstract patterns of constellations, the depths of sky and space provide an intriguing array of inspiration.

The ‘STELLAR’ collection also consists of four wallpaper designs in varying colour ways, three fabric patterns, two cushion designs, four coasters and a set of matching fabric, coaster and placemat designs. One of our most provocative patterns, Nebulae, consists of strong geometric shapes with intense contrasting colours that creatively interpret the enigmatic nature of space.

Designer, Eliza Kesuma comments, “I love the changing of the seasons, which provide me with fresh inspiration to create new and contemporary prints. The Stellar range of fabric fits perfectly into nights on the sofa. Inspired by patterns of light created at dusk and dawn, the warmth and feel of the velvet cushions are the perfect way to create an instant boost.”

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Available to buy at: https://www.moodymonday.co.uk/shop/nebulae-cotton-velvet-cushion/
Follow us at: Twitter #MoodyMondayUK Pinterest – /MoodyMondayUk Facebook – /MoodyMondayUk
Contact:T: +44 (0) 131 618 2979 T: +44 (0) 131 777 2679
Unit 13 – Abbeymount Techbase, 2 Easter Road, Edinburgh, EH7 5AN

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We have a new stockist – Wallpaper Antics

We love wallpaper here at Moody Monday, we can’t hide it. It’s our staple product and it is our goal to make our creations accessible to as many customers as possible. So we’re always on the hunt for stockists to collaborate with to make this happen.

We’re pleased to announce that we now have our very first stockist in Australia – Wallpaper Antics.

wallpapers-antics-logo

With the simple aim of offering customers high quality bespoke wall coverings for their homes that are unique investment pieces, Wallpaper Antics concentrates on featuring wallpaper from skilled designers across the globe.

The wide array of wallpapers, many of which are screen printed present plenty of choice for customers looking to decorate their homes. From hand screen printed wallpaper to digitally printed wallpaper and murals, they have all you need to create a striking look in your home. They also offer a bespoke printing service which caters to clients working on a one of a kind project.

The full range of Moody Monday’s wall coverings are stocked by Wallpaper Antics. Check out our profile on their website.

blog_MM collageSecret Music collection by Moody Monday – The Dance ,  Black Keys,  Geometry of the Sound

Here are a few others from their assortment of wallpapers.

blog1_wallpaper collage1. Etoile wallpaper by Sian Elin | 2. Culcita wallpaper from Blackpop | 3. Muscat Small wallpaper by MissPrint

Founder, Andrea Renting adds that “Wallpaper Antics was created because of a passion to kindle a new love for wallpaper in Australia like there is in the UK and US. Wallpapers are like a piece of art and we want everyone to enjoy them by investing in something special not just any mass-produced run-of-the-mill wall coverings. The vision is to bring together designers and small boutique labels in one hub for the Australian market.”

To peruse their online store, go to http://wallpaperantics.com.au/

Images sourced from Wallpaper Antics website.

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Meet Alexandra – our new social media and marketing intern

This week, we’ve had a new intern joining Moody Monday: Alexandra will be working alongside our Head Designer, Eliza Kesuma, to increase the company’s brand awareness and reach, through social media and marketing communication.

We’ve asked Alexandra to take the stage and introduce herself, talking about how she came to join Moody Monday, her previous experience, passions and ambitions for the future. This is her story:

“Here I am, on one of my last evenings of a short road trip in Denmark, checking my email, when I excitedly read the following subject line: “Interview Invitation”. Sender: Eliza at Moody Monday. Oh boy!

When I first read about the internship opportunity one week before, it seemed a perfect match for my previous experience, skills and interests, so I applied immediately. After a closer look at Moody Monday’s website, blog and social media, I started to paint a picture in my mind of this highly creative, closely-knit, vibrant and friendly organization – and I wasn’t mistaken.

Meeting Eliza and Sara for the interview was a truly pleasant experience, as I genuinely felt we ‘clicked’ both personally and professionally. I left the venue happy, knowing that regardless which way this will go, we’ve had a productive encounter and a nice exchange of ideas. I was even leaving with a recommendation for a new book to add on my ‘must read’ list!

A few days later, I got the call from Eliza offering me the position, which I gladly accepted. And so here I am now, three days into the job, taking the lead of Moody Monday’s social media and marketing communication. I do have a few years of work experience in the field, so I’m confidently looking forward to use and improve these skills here, and to help drive Moody Monday on its path to reaching and engaging the right audience. I expect this to be a challenging and rewarding job. I can’t wait!

As for my other passions and hobbies, I occasionally participate in long distance running events, in support of various NGOs, and try to keep my personal blog up to date with random thoughts. That aside, I’m a naturally curious person, so I often drift into new projects:  graphic and web design, photography, painting, crafts, etc. While I don’t see myself going into business with this like Eliza has, I do enjoy spending some of my free time on these hobbies. I like being around creative work, so I joined Moody Monday with a strong desire to immerse myself in all things beautiful. So far so good 🙂

Photo: ©Alexandra Haret 2015

On top of the internship, I’m currently finalizing my Master’s thesis remotely, and will be graduating from Aalborg University in Denmark this summer, with my degree in Market and Consumption.

As for the future, I’m looking to advance into marketing and communication, promoting businesses in various fields, so this field will continue to be my main focus for the upcoming years. However, I’ve always been a ‘Jane of all trades’, so I want to continue adding new skills to my ‘portfolio’. In the near future, I’ll be looking to develop my web design experience, which at the moment is at an early hobby stage.

But all things in good time. In the meantime, I’ll be sharpening my creativity and marketing skills on Moody Monday’s social media space, so be sure to keep an eye on these!”

 

 

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Interview with Andrea, Design Intern

Over the past few months Andrea has been working alongside our Chief Designer, Eliza, as an intern. Andrea is currently studying Styling and Design with Academy Artemis in the Netherlands, though she has been working with Moody Monday for the past six months. As she’s nearing the end of her time in Edinburgh, we wanted to catch up with Andrea and ask about her experiences.

What three words would best describe your experience of Edinburgh and Moody Monday?
Worldly
Reality
Magnificent

How has interning for Moody Monday compared to your expectations before you arrived in Edinburgh?
Before I came I knew Moody Monday was re-branding as a company. What I did not expect was that I could help with literally everything. A great challenge!

What aspect(s) of the internship have you enjoyed most?
I loved working on the styling projects, so being highly creative. This involves setting up the photo shoots but creating the look book as well. Besides working, meeting the people at St. Margaret’s House made me happy too.

What advice would you give to other design interns?
For a long time I was quite shy about showing my designs to other people, until I noticed people actually enjoyed seeing my work. Don’t be shy – show your work to others. You will see when you do; people are supporting you., always.

How will you use your experience of this internship in the future?
Well, I always said I want to freelance or start my own business. Working at Moody Monday showed me a lot different aspects of having your own business.

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Photo: ©Andrea Koelink 2015.

What do you think is the most challenging part of getting into the design industry?
Everything should be challenging. Then you move forward and that’s something you need in life, although that is my opinion. I think the most challenging part would be to keep surprising the people who are enjoying following my blog, Poppin, over and over again with my designs and eventually my products.

Which designers do you idolise/get inspiration from?
One of my idols is Iris van Herpen, an amazing Dutch fashion designer. I recently discovered Blackpop, a designer from the United Kingdom. I think her print designs are quite amazing. And, of course, I love the work of Antoni Gaudi, especially how he found his inspiration and looked at things differently. Well, I can talk about this the whole day because there are a lot more great designers who I idolise!

What would be your dream design job? E.g. the interior of a famous building.
For me, working with prints is everything. That’s why I started my own blog about 3 months ago – Poppin. So, working with print design could be my dream job, especially if I create products with my prints.

Tell us about Poppin!
Poppin is my blog about prints, patterns, structure, and texture in fashion, interior, and exterior design. But that is not everything: for example, nature is something that can be really interesting with regards to patterns as well. We are surrounded by beauty itself – I filter everything that inspires me, to inspire you. At the moment I’m working on a first product but this takes time. When I’m ready, you will see it appear on my blog.

What has been your favourite experience in Edinburgh?
Wow, really hard question. Living abroad in general is quite an experience. There are a lot experiences and adventures I had the past five months. For example, my journey to the Isle of Skye was more than amazing. Scotland is absolutely beautiful. I tried haggis, surprisingly I really liked it! Although, black pudding not so much. During my time in Edinburgh I met great people and I’m thankful for that.

To keep updated with Andrea’s journey, follow her blog or find her on social media:
Poppin Facebook
Poppin Twitter
Poppin Pinterest

 

Photo: ©Andrea Koelink 2015.
Photo: ©Andrea Koelink 2015.