What inspires you?
I love putting fabrics and chunks of colours together, that really excites me. The brighter the better. My materials guide me, and nothing is more exciting than a fresh piece of bold coloured felt and all the possibilities that my collection of fabrics and threads offer. I just love seeing a character coming to 'life'. I recently saw a beautiful exhibition on Monet and the Impressionists which got me going. Lately I have been inspired by pop culture. I think my strong interest in character overlaps in all the things I do, from my costume design to these little guys.

How were your Oogaboogas born? (they are the cutest lil fellas, we want them all!)
My Little Oogabooga was born out of boredom and a need for a creative outlet between jobs. When my 'real' work dried up (which was blessing really as I was burnt out and jaded) I really needed something to do with my hands, my mind and my heart. I was on a holiday in Byron Bay and saw a plush toy that was handmade and thought I could do that! That first Oogabooga turned out entirely different from that toy I saw, it just sparked a confidence in myself to give it a try.

What are 5 of your favourite items?
Items in my store? I especially love my Boy Wonder and my Sailor Boy I just made for a custom order. I also love my Sumos, Ninjas and Robots although the Classics have a special place in my heart too!

Where do you see yourself or your little ooga boogas in 10 years?
This is a question I think about constantly. I would love to grow my business so that I could quit my day job which I hate, but at this stage it is not viable. I doubt it could ever be viable unfortunately, as each toy takes me up to eight hours and I could never justify charging enough to make it worthwhile. I see them possibly moving into an illustrative form and I am looking at maybe writing a book using them as characters, or greeting cards etc.

Is there a message or feelings you try to convey in your creations? I wouldn't say a message as such, but I try to pour as much joy and humour into them as possible. I didn't realise that at first, until seeing many peoples reactions were giggles, chuckles and smiles. At first my intent was sophisticated, 'cooler', more design orientated adult plush toys, but that really didn't happen. I don't think I have made an Oogabooga yet that hasn't warmed my heart and made me smile. It is so lovely to bring cheer into peoples' lives no matter how tiny that moment is.

Do you have any exhibitions or projects coming up?
Unfortunately no special projects, I am looking at doing some local markets which is exciting for me since I have only ever sold through Etsy. I am travelling for a few months towards the end of the year so I will be taking a break from the Oogaboogas, hopefully come back with lots of exciting new ideas and materials.