When I discovered Fabric Drawers little notebooks, I knew instantly they needed to be an addition to our Beaut boxes. There's something about a unique design that makes writing/journaling more fun. Designed and printed in Melbourne on recycled blank paper, these notebooks are perfect for journaling, sketching, or jotting down notes!
We had a chat with Beck Ng to learn more about Fabric Drawer.
1. When did you start Fabric Drawer and how did it all begin?
My background is in graphic design and after many years of working, I eventually discovered the world of repeating patterns. I started Fabric Drawer in 2012, but back then I was solely focused on designing and creating patterns. Although I’ve always dabbled in making products, it probably wasn’t until a couple of years later that I started forming a range of products from my patterns. Since then I have continued to develop my design style, work with clients on their products, as well as expand and finesse my range of products. The Fabric Drawer range is still a small range of paper and fabric products, but I am focused on beautiful quality, sourcing things locally where I can and more sustainable options.
2. What inspires your unique designs?
Nature and my life living in Melbourne.
3. What is your favourite thing about your business?
The variety! I think a lot of jobs can become mundane when you are doing the same sort of tasks over and over again. When you have your own business, you create the work and determine the direction you want to go.
4. What were some of the obstacles during your early days and how did you overcome them?
Early on you are trying to find your style and voice and that is really hard. Everything looks unfinished or similar to something else out there. It can take years to develop your style, and even now I’m not sure if I have a signature style. You just need to keep creating and eventually you will find a style, theme or colours you are naturally drawn to. There are also lots of things you learn on the way usually from mistakes you make. Learning to move on and keep going is another important lesson.
5. What motivates you?
Creating art is my form of self-expression, so even if I wasn’t making a business of it, I would be creating in some form. I find the process quite cathartic, so I do feel motivated to create something all the time.
6. How do you decide on/come up with your product ideas?
I usually go on what sort of products I would buy myself, as well as products that I can either sew or have manufactured locally or in smaller quantities. There is a lot of trial and error and it can take awhile to really get a sense of what products and designs work. It’s important that you really love the products you are selling; I make sure that I’m really happy with not just the design, but the quality, function and how it is made.
7. What are you most proud of so far with your business?
I’ve been fortunate to work with some great clients and I’m seeing progress each year with my range of products. I know many people are trying to find their purpose or passion in life, but I feel lucky that I have found this in my business!
8. What are your goals for the future of Fabric Drawer?
I wrote some goals down at the start of the year but COVID had a different idea! I think for me, growth is really important… I sometimes have specific goals, like a client I would love to work with or a product I would like to create, but it all comes back to continuing to grow the business and be open to any opportunities out there.
9. What advice do you have for anyone who is on the fence for starting their own business?
Just go for it! You don’t want to regret not giving something a go. It also doesn’t mean you have to quit your job and start your business right away. I am working part-time alongside Fabric Drawer, so it’s important for me to not have to stress about finances and allow myself to focus on creating the best designs and products.
10. What was your mission when you started your business?
I started Fabric Drawer as a way to get my work out into the world. It's been a wonderful journey sharing my patterns through my own products and collaborations with clients. I'm also an introvert, so having a creative business allows me to be in my element!
11. What product is an absolute crowd favourite and why?
I sewed up a lot of masks last year and they sold out as soon as I released each batch! But normally, over the years my sunglasses pouches and zip purses still sell well.
12. Will there be any new product launches in 2022 we need to stay tuned for?
I had a few new products released in 2021, but because of lockdowns and COVID, I haven’t been able to properly launch them in markets, so I’ll be hanging onto them for 2022. I always try to refresh my designs, so the next thing will probably be refreshing my range of greeting cards.
Thank you Beck, we cant wait to see your new products and greeting cards!
Let us know what you think!