Set up in May 2008, Doinky Doodles showcases Handmade Art that has been creatively made from an assortment of earth friendly recycled fabrics. The result is original, nifty and fun pieces of art that visitors will find hard to resist.
Xin’s aim of setting up Doinky Doodles is to let people connect easily with art by making it more affordable and handy to use, as opposed to the classic notion of only owning pieces that are sold in galleries.
Interior of Doinky Doodles
Pursuing her passion as a crafter
Owner of Doinky Doodles – Xin
Xin graduated from Lasalle College of the Arts in 2004 and it was during her final year project where she discovered her love for sewing dolls using second-hand clothing. She explains, “I love working with second hand material because they have interesting existing textures (folders, pleats,) and elements (zippers, pockets, buttons) for me to cut-&-rework into something new!”
Prior to Doinky Doodles, Xin and her sister sold their handmade art under the label Maki Squarepatch. After two years, the sisters decided to pursue their individual dreams and goals – marking the start of Xin’s solo journey.
The joys of running Doinky Doodles
Xin hopes that Doinky Doodles helps to spread a little magic by reminding a visitor or customer the value of patience, love, humor and passion through the wonders of Handmade – particularly in a fast paced environment such as Singapore.
She elaborates, “As a crafter, I love receiving custom-order requests because it is nice to be able to play a part in peoples’ gifting ideas. Kind of like being one of the elves in Santa’s workshop; receiving letters on what they (customers) would like and me play a part in creating it.”
A snapshot of Xin’s collection made back in 2008
Xin’s store draws a fair share of fans and visitors that range from a wide spectrum. Most of her visitors are women, but there are men, who are looking for gifts or are generally more open to the idea of wearing colors. Running the place gives her the chance to meet travelers who are passing by Singapore as part of their round-the-world journeys. Listening to their stories makes it all the more enjoyable for her.
On finding the right location
The store is located on the second level on 33 Bali Lane and carries a quiet, cheerful, and relaxed atmosphere. It is here that Xin draws, illustrates and sews her charming creations.
The young entrepreneur says that she has grown to love it being secluded and hidden from the crowded places. The quiet environment lets her work, while at the same time functioning as a shop.
The fact that Raffles Hospital is located diagonally across her shop provides a slight comfort too. “If I should have any crazy accident with the sewing machine, I could still try my mighty best to hop over there.”
Teaching others to make handmade items
Doinky Doodles conducts hand-sewing workshops by Xin at the shop. She hopes to encourage people to spend time creating something from scratch. “I have also liked Art as a tool to connect with people, so I hope even more that these sewing workshops will encourage people to sew something interesting for their friends and loved ones,” she said.
Advice to fellow crafters and entrepreneurs
A child wearing one of Doinky Doodles’ creations – the Slug tee
Xin emphasized the need to follow your gut instinct. Her own unique characteristics shine through her work. Individuality, Colors and Absurdity are elements that prevail in every piece of creation. All these make Doinky Doodles an attractive space for crafters and fans alike.
If you’re looking for interesting gifts or custom made items, check out Doinky Doodles’ website or blog for more information and the latest updates. If you’re in Singapore, you should just drop by the place at 33 Bali Lane, where you will no doubt find Xin stitching new whimsical creations.
Doinky Doodles
33 Bali Lane (2nd Floor)
Telephone: (65) 6292 2248
Email: xin@doinkydoodles.com
OPENED
Every Tuesdays to Saturdays, 1.00pm – 8.00pm.
Thanks:
1. All images in this article are courtesy of Xin.
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