Allison Kline of MishMash, Our Featured Designer for November What inspired you to start designing? I've always enjoyed the process of coming up with an idea, and seeing if I can create it. Also, as a graphic designer, I spend a lot of time working on a computer, so I try to balance that out by making things with my hands.

What's your background and have you always been creative?  Are there other artistic endeavors you're involved in?
I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a focus on Graphic Design from the Savannah College of Art and Design. I've worked for years as a graphic designer for design firms, and for the past few years have run my own freelance design business. I also do some illustration, some painting, printmaking, bookmaking, and other artistic pursuits. I'm always eager to learn new techniques and try new things.

Your line shows a clear love for feminine, bright designs. How do you come up with your designs?
Most of my designs are a direct result of something I need. My first piece was an iPod case I made because I needed one. Then I moved on to the tote bag because I wanted a purse that was durable and sassy, and so on. Now I'm making bags that are improvements on my original designs and trying to branch out so I'll have something for everyone, including the guys.

How did you get into crafting? What other types of mediums have you worked in?
When I was a little girl, my Grandma Irene and I used to do needlepoint together, and my mom did a lot of sewing and other crafty things when I was a kid, so I started making things at a very young age. I made clothes for my Barbies when I was young and in high school I'd buy clothes at thrift stores, and cut them up to make new things. I sew anything I can with my sewing machine and I also like to knit and crochet. Aside from the wearable items, I do make some art to hang on the wall. Currently I'm doing a lot of found-object collages and small paintings using mostly acrylic paint and layers of paper and glue.

Do you work out of your home or do you have a studio? What type of equipment do you use for the whole process?
I work from home, and use a Pfaff sewing machine and rivet and grommet setters as well as a host of cutting tools and hole punches to create the bags.

What has been the most difficult thing so far about starting your own line?
The most difficult thing is time management. Since I'm a solo show, I still have to work to make money, and then find time to create bags and other art in my spare time.

Whose work do you admire?
Artistically, I'm into Robert Rauchenburg at the moment. I love his use of mixed media in creating art. As far as designers go, I'm inspired by my fellow designers I see at various craft fairs and events. Everyone has such great ideas and I'm always very impressed.

Where do you find your inspiration?
Everywhere I go. Nature. Art. Architecture. The Ocean. Inspiration is an elusive thing…. Sometimes it's hard to pinpoint where it comes from, but when an idea strikes, I always feel compelled to try to make something of it.

What advice would you offer new designers entering the market?
Do what you love and you'll be successful. And trust your instincts.

What is your vision for your business and where would you like to be in five years?
I'd like to have a store where I can sell my designs and other designer's work as well. Or on the flipside of that, expand my business to include some people to help me manufacture my designs, so I can sell to more stores nationwide.

Any other area of fashion you'd like to delve into?
I'd love to take some classes on jewelry making, specifically metalsmithing, and enameling.

What current trend would you like to see go away?
Ultra low-waited pants… (Unflattering to most people, and you can't sit down in them!)

You can find MishMash at the following locations:

Archive of Past Featured Designers:
Miyuki Ott - August 2007
Seed Clothing - September 2007
Moxie & Oliver - October 2007
MishMash - November 2007
Tarah Prater Designs - December 2007