Celebrating creator Annemarie from Scatters Matter

A Life Reimagined

If anyone told me five years ago that I would be making scatter cushions and doing outdoor upholstery to earn my keep, I’d have smiled sweetly and returned to my Excel. Over 30 years’ experience in the corporate world lay behind my previous existence as one of life’s ordered, calendar-controlled, meeting-filled souls that so many recognise and understand. But life, as it often does, had other plans—and amidst the upheaval of COVID-19, my artistic self flourished and I finally got a chance to express myself.

Born Out of Necessity

It began out of necessity. Like so many others amidst the pandemic, I suddenly had time, uncertainty, and a need to pivot.  When the world ground to a halt, I started considering what truly made me happy—and sewing was always top of mind. I’d tinkered around with it over the years, created curtains, hemmed trousers, played around with patterns and designs in my free time. I’d always loved fabric, texture, and taking a piece of cloth and creating something lovely and useful.

The First Stitch

With my corporate world uncertain, I decided to dust off my sewing machine and get back to making something special.  A colleague recommended the name Scatters Matter, and I love it.  Because it started with some scatter cushions made from left over fabric I had around the house. I put pictures up on social media, and friends ordered straight away. The feedback was good and positive, and it planted the seed of potential: what if this didn’t have to be just a hobby?

Before long, I was sewing every day, working out patterns, trying sizes and shapes, looking for tough material suitable for outdoor use. I started purchasing small quantities of unusual material, particularly items with a history. I have always thought that a cushion can be more than simply match the curtains, it can add warmth, colour, and character to a room.

So instead of making things in bulk, I’ve kept my designs petite, making just a handful of each. That means each one is individual.  They are like finding a gem in a boutique instead of a chain store.

Finding My Place at the Market

Markets were the obvious next step. Setting up a stall for the first time was scary but exhilarating. Would people stop? Would they enjoy my work? Turns out, they didn’t simply disappear, they browsed, chatted, asked questions, shared their own stories about their homes, their aesthetic, and their favourite colours.

The vibe of those mornings is one I still eagerly anticipate, the hum of preparation before sunrise, the aroma of coffee in the air, and the joking between sellers as we roll out our booths and exchange information.

The Joy of Community

There’s something so spiritual about being a market stallholder. I’ve encountered the most fantastic people and the other makers, artisans, and customers have become friends. There’s a sort of magic in giving someone something you’ve made with your own hands and seeing their eyes light up. It’s fulfilling in a way corporate life never quite was. I’m no longer running after KPIs, I’m running after joy, creativity, and connection.

The Thrill of the Fabric Hunt

One of the biggest parts of my process has been looking for fabric.  It is something that I both view as a chore and an absolute pleasure. I go on  “fabric adventures”, where I scour markets, visit suppliers, and rummage through rolls and remnants in an effort to find the kind of fabric that leaves me breathless.

I have just returned from KwaZulu-Natal on a quest for new material—sumptuous prints, nubby textures, and ocean, field, and sky inspired hues. I get lost in what each piece can be. Every cushion begins with that vision.

Let’s Chat, Stitch, and Share

I’ve also done more outdoor upholstery projects, turning faded cushions into vibrant, gorgeous statement pieces. It’s a continuation of my passion for fabric and reinvention. Reflecting on this path, I’m thankful for the twist of fate that brought me here. What started as a response to a worldwide pandemic has evolved into a successful small business. Scatters Matter is my own source of joy and comfort.

So if you happen to see me at a market, surrounded by cushions in every colour and texture imaginable, please do come over and say hi. Let’s talk about your home, your favourite colours, or that chair you’ve been wanting to reupholster. Because for me, this is not so much a business as a calling, and each conversation adds a bit more soul to the journey.

Bringing My Creations to Featsy

Recently, I joined Featsy, an amazing online craft and flea market platform where fellow creatives and small businesses come together to showcase their work. It’s a beautiful extension of the community vibe I love at physical markets, except now, anyone, anywhere, can browse Scatters Matter and buy my scatter cushions from the comfort of their home. I’m so excited to offer my handcrafted pieces to a wider audience through Featsy.

Each cushion listed is made with love, care, and a touch of adventure—and I’d be thrilled to have one of them bring warmth and colour into your space. Pop over to my Featsy shop Scatters Matter and take a look!