There is no singular source of inspiration. I’m inspired by so much! I love people watching, so observing everyday situations is a great source of inspiration to me. All of my work starts from observational drawing too, so this is an essential step in my process. Other sources of inspiration include fabrics, colours, films, fashion, blogs, books, fellow crafters and artists, the list is endless!
Tugba Kop
If I could, I would live off of cheesecake
I studied Illustration at Kingston University
My house is ruled by a gangster cat, 2 chihuahuas and a toy poodle
I used to wear headgear. Fun times!
What got you started crafting?
Growing up both of my parents worked in the textile industry, so I was surrounded! My mum would come home with bin bags full of unwanted fabrics for me to play with. The time I didn't spend teaching myself to sew, was spent drawing my favourite Disney characters. Although I pursued the drawing side of things, my love for sewing never subsided. Choosing between the two wasn't an option, so I eventually combined my two passions and my wonderful creations were born!
What is your source of inspiration?
There is no singular source of inspiration. I'm inspired by so much! I love people watching, so observing everyday situations is a great source of inspiration to me. All of my work starts from observational drawing too, so this is an essential step in my process. Other sources of inspiration include fabrics, colours, films, fashion, blogs, books, fellow crafters and artists, the list is endless!
What have you made recently?
I recently made a leather card holder. I thought I would finally make use of this strange furry leather that I've had lying around for ages. It's been among all my other leather bits and pieces for months and months, but I never really quite knew what to do with it (or even what possessed me to buy it in the first place!). So I used the texture and colour of it as a starting point. Eventually, I thought that it would really work as a bird design. So I did an observational drawing of a bird, stitched it onto this leather and I was right! It all worked out well in the end, I think the yellow fur really complements the birdy!
Where do you sell your crafts presently?
I sell my crafts via my website and in my Etsy shop. I also participate in local craft fairs, but want to extend this to all craft fairs around London. They are always very enjoyable and the people are so nice!
Why are handmade crafts important to you?
I've always enjoyed reworking old clothes to make them suit my taste. It's kind of the same with handmade pieces. It got to the point where I would walk into a shop and think 'I could do that, but better!'. Plus, in shops there would always be something I didn't like about an item, so I would just make my own! Why should you make do with an item you're not completely satisfied with, when you can have one that you love? It's always nice to have one off or personalised pieces, makes me feel special!
Find Me
LocationLondon, England
Email Address
Tugba Kop
Personal Website
http://www.tugbakop.com
Store Website
http://www.etsy.com/shop/tugbakop