The Nonsense Maker: Playful Illustrations For Your Wedding Stationery
The Nonsense Maker opens the door to a playful, nostalgic world where small details spark big imagination. Created in Melbourne, the brand blends slow, thoughtful illustration with a distinctly whimsical charm.
Who is The Nonsense Maker?
The Nonsense Maker is the personification of my adventuring alter ego; a caffeine-fuelled adventurer living in a curious world of hidden secrets, where little is what it seems. We like to think there is a little nonsense maker in everyone, just waiting to be discovered!
When did you launch the brand, and what inspired you to create a “nonsense” world through illustration?
The Nonsense Maker came to life when I returned home from living abroad in London. I had been keeping a travel sketchbook and had started experimenting with crosshatching and pen illustration. I found myself incorporating more and more quirky little features. Gradually, I found the more Nonsense snuck into my artwork, the more sense and meaning they had to me. I had my first solo exhibition shortly after returning to Melbourne, which inspired me to launch the brand.
Where do you find inspiration for your whimsical designs and characters?
Initially I was inspired by the beautiful old-world aesthetic I was surrounded by in London, and vintage storybook etchings like those in Alice in Wonderland. In recent years I find myself drawn to Australia’s own nostalgia and whimsical natural world.
How has the brand evolved since you first started in 2016?
In the beginning my illustrations were a peculiar mix of silly and sad imagery with a moody feel. I think I have grown as a person in the last decade, and my artwork has evolved with me. My business partner Sidonie’s influence has also crept in over time, bringing more bright colours and a playful energy.
Why do you choose to design and print everything locally in Brunswick, Melbourne, rather than outsourcing?
Producing all our products ethically in Australia is very important to us. We like to support other small businesses in our community and know our products are produced sustainably using fair labour.
By printing most of our products in-house, we can also test new products, print small quantities and have quick turnaround times, which is a huge bonus for our small business!
What makes your illustration style, and the world of The Nonsense Maker unique?
My illustration style is a very slow process that is a real labour of love. Each artwork can take me anywhere from 5 to 50 hours to illustrate and colour. I also think the nostalgic quality of my drawing method and the bright modern colour is a unique combination that you don’t see very often.
How do you want people to feel when they receive or see your designs?
Joy with a side of surprise! My favourite thing is to watch people slowly discover the quirky little details I hide within my illustrations. Even my business partner Sidonie often finds new details, and she sees my drawings every day!
Looking ahead, what’s next for The Nonsense Maker, new products, collaborations or worlds to explore?
We are always looking for new product ideas! We have a beautiful network of local suppliers here in Melbourne that we want to continue to work with. We are particularly excited by textiles at the moment – whether that means new homewares, or perhaps aprons, we aren’t too sure yet!
Visit thenonsensemaker.com.au
Instagram @thenonsensemaker
DISCLAIMER: We attempt to credit the original photographer/source of every image we use. However, in most circumstances, the images we use are provided by the brands spoken about, and we rely on them to inform us of the image source. If you think a credit may be incorrect, please contact us at info@theodoremagazine.com
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