Meet Lizelle Joseph

What’s a typical day in the studio like for you?

A typical day in the studio starts with a cup of coffee and a quick review of my to-do list, which usually includes sketching new designs, selecting colour palettes, and experimenting with pattern ideas. I spend a lot of time sourcing inspiration—from nature, interiors, or even vintage prints—before diving into the creative process. Some days are hands-on with fabric samples and mock-ups, while others are focused on digital design and planning upcoming collections. There’s always music playing, lots of notes and swatches scattered around, and a constant mix of creativity, problem-solving, and excitement as new ideas come to life.

What do you like most about your work?

What I love most about my work is the freedom to be creative every day and see my ideas turn into pieces that bring joy and character into people’s homes.

What do you like least about your work?  

The part I like least is the behind-the-scenes admin — it’s necessary but definitely not as fun as designing!

What’s your favourite craft item in your home?

My favourite craft item at home is a hand-stitched cushion I made early on; it’s a reminder of how far I’ve come.

Tell us about your first craft item you made

The first craft items I ever made were hair scrunchies and little outfits for my dolls, using leftover fabric scraps from my grandmother’s sewing projects. She would let me dig through her stash, and together we’d sew tiny pieces on her vintage Singer machine—it was such a special way to learn and create. As I got older, that early love for fabric and design naturally evolved into creating simple surface patterns for home textiles, where I could bring together my passion for colour, pattern, and interiors in a more intentional way. Those early memories still inspire the way I design today.

Who is your inspiration?

My greatest inspiration is my grandmother, who had an incredible talent for decorating her home with handmade textiles, all lovingly crafted on her vintage Singer sewing machine. She had a true eye for detail and an intuitive sense of style, transforming simple fabrics into beautiful cushions, curtains, and tablecloths that made her home feel warm and inviting. Watching her create with such passion and resourcefulness left a lasting impression on me and sparked my own love for textiles and home décor. Her creativity and dedication continue to inspire everything I do today.

What advice would you give someone who is considering this craft career?

For anyone considering a craft-based career, my advice is to stay curious, be patient with the process, and trust your unique style — it’s what sets you apart.

Where do you get your inspiration?

I draw a lot of my inspiration from the colours and textures found in nature—there’s something so effortless and beautiful about the way they come together in the world around us. Growing up in South Africa, I was surrounded by vibrant landscapes, bold prints, and rich cultural influences that celebrated colour in such a joyful, expressive way. That early exposure deeply shaped my design aesthetic and continues to influence my work today. I’m always looking for that perfect balance between natural beauty and bold, playful design.

Is sustainability an important aspect of your business?

Sustainability is absolutely important to me; I’m always looking for ways to reduce waste, source responsibly, and create décor that’s not only beautiful but also mindful of the planet.

What’s the most challenging part of your craft?

The most challenging part of my craft is finding the balance between creativity and precision—bringing a design idea to life exactly as I envision it can be a meticulous process. From choosing the right colours and patterns to making sure the final product is both beautiful and functional, there’s a lot of trial and error involved. It can be time-consuming and sometimes frustrating, but it’s also incredibly rewarding when everything finally comes together and a design feels just right.

What made you choose your discipline?

I chose this discipline because of my deep love for colour and home interiors—I’ve always been drawn to the way a space can be transformed with the right mix of textures, patterns, and hues. Designing cushion covers and wall art felt like a natural extension of that passion, allowing me to blend creativity with purpose by helping people express their style through thoughtful, eye-catching details. It’s incredibly rewarding to create pieces that not only brighten a room but also bring comfort and personality into everyday living spaces.

Have you ever had a “happy accident” while making something?

Yes, I’ve definitely had plenty of “happy accidents” while designing! Often, I’ll be working on a pattern and, almost by chance, shifting or rearranging just a few shapes completely transforms the design into something unexpected and much more exciting than what I originally planned. Those moments remind me to stay open and embrace spontaneity in the creative process—sometimes the best ideas come from letting go and allowing the design to evolve naturally.

How do you balance creativity with the business side of things?

Balancing creativity with the business side is definitely a juggling act, but I’ve learned to set clear boundaries and structure my time. I dedicate certain days or hours purely to creative work—designing, experimenting, and finding inspiration—while others are focused on tasks like marketing, finances, and customer service. Having a routine helps me stay grounded, and I try to view the business side as another form of creativity—finding smart, authentic ways to grow the brand and connect with customers. It’s all about staying organized and remembering why I started in the first place.

What would you say to anyone thinking of becoming a DCCI member

If you’re thinking about joining the Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI), I’d say go for it! Being a member has been such a great way to connect with other creatives and get access to loads of helpful resources like funding opportunities, workshops, and networking events. They also promote members through their directory and cool campaigns like “Made Local,” which really helps get your work seen by retailers and customers. Plus, there are practical perks like group insurance and a handy newsletter that keeps you in the loop with what’s happening in the craft world. Whether you’re a designer, maker, or part of a guild, being part of DCCI feels like joining a supportive community that really helps you grow and get noticed.