We’re pleased to welcome a colourful new maker to our fair today. Meet Chantel of Mashona Designs at our Christmas fair at Worthing Charmandean on Sunday 4th December. Find out more about her ahead of the day…
Please introduce yourself and your brand….
I’m Chantel, founder and designer at Mashona Designs. I’m a self-taught sewist based in sunny Eastbourne and started the business in late 2020. I create quality handmade, colourful accessories and homeware from sustainably sourced African textiles and up cycled materials.
How would you describe your style and your creations?
I would describe my self as a ‘Colour Lover’ and have been from an early age. Always drawn to colourful designs and patterns. I once wore a fire red dress to a black tie ball.
The products I design, bring a vibrancy of Africa to everyday life.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I love being able to express my love of colour and in particular the spectacular African textiles. I enjoy to learn and discover different types of fabrics and explore the traditional meanings behind these materials.
Working with remnants, off cuts and upcycled materials allows me to think outside the box and look at ways to creatively bring together the African prints and up cycled materials.
What can we expect to find on your stall at So This is Christmas on Sunday 4th December at Worthing Charmandean? And are you looking forward to taking part?
I will have a selection of accessories such as Wired Headbands, Infinity Scarves with a hidden pocket! to homeware such as storage baskets and placemats.
I’ve never been to a Fairytale market but I’ve heard great things, so I am excited to be taking part and helping a great charity at the same time.
Do you have a best seller?
I would say my wired headbands are the best seller, people love how easy they are to use.
Do you have any plans or ambitions for the future?
I would like to develop my own website and to explore the use of upcycled materials further in my designs. I have ideas, I just need to find the time to get creative!
Do you have a motto or inspirational quote?
I don’t have a motto as such but as I’ve got older, I’ve grown in my confidence, to give things a go, what is the worst that can happen?!
Describe your Christmas in 3 words…
A large Baileys!
How can we find out more about you?
You can find my hanging out over on https://www.instagram.com/mashona_designs or check out my designs at https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/mashonadesigns
