Jo Saunders’ Design Story
Jo Saunders Design is a printed accessories company based in East Sussex celebrating the joyful beauty of colour, pattern, shape and form. The range comprises of bags, pouches, make up bags, cushions, purses and more with emphasis on immaculate make and finish. We caught up with Jo to find out more about her bags and inspirations.
If you weren’t a designer-maker, what would you be right now?
I have always fancied puppet making as I love working on tiny detail – think Fantastic Mr Fox and Isle of Dogs – amazing hand crafted detail.
When did you realise you wanted to be a designer?
I grew up expecting to be tinkering in a shed at the bottom of the garden – and I’m not far off with a room in my home!
Describe your work in three words.
Colour. Pattern. Joy.
Are there any other designers whose work you admire, and why?
I saw “The Snail” by Matisse at the Pompidou Centre on a school trip aged 10 and time stood still for me. That set the seed for the style of Art and Design that has interested me ever since. I admire Marimekko for their distinctive, clean crisp, uncompromising style. And, closer to home I love Maxine Sutton for her sensitive and textural work. I have followed Fashion designers in my career more than textiles actually so I have to mention Dries Van Noten for just getting it right every time.
What do you do in your free time?
Hang out with my family. Athough I’m likely to be in my studio if I have any “free” time, that’s the good thing and the bad thing about having a studio in your home.
What’s one thing you like to do everyday without fail?
Exhale loudly as I fall into bed at night!
What brings you the greatest satisfaction?
My next piece of work.
What’s the best advice you have been given?
A delivery problem is better than a sales problem.
What’s the best gift you have ever received?
Anything that my daughter makes for me – one favourite is a teeny tiny clay book with teeny tiny hand written pages.
What is your favourite quote?
Start. Start with fear. Start with pain. Just start. (It came at the right time and I guess that’s why I was open to it).
What is in your bucket list?
I would love to produce a collection of prints or collages. A studio at the bottom of my garden would be amazing. A dog would be a great addition to our family.
What is the best piece you have bought and from whom?
I bought two matching Murano glass vases from a flea market years ago and still feel pleased with myself every time I look at them!