If you’re fond of handmade treasures, one-of-a-kind homewares and an interior scheme that gives a generous nod to the nomadic, bohemian vibe, you’ve found your own private heaven in online store When the North Wind Blows. Here’s why you’ll be head over heels for this local biz!
Below: The Vintage Kantha Throws are hand-stitched by up to five women, taking three or four days to make.
Established in February this year, When the North Wind Blows is your go-to destination for handmade homewares and accessories with heart. Nicole Jones, who’s the talented creative behind the store, tells me that she spent a lengthy amount of time researching artisans around the globe who really had a story to tell through their work.
“I wanted to select products with a conscious, products that have a history and products that could somehow be functional and fashionable in 2014,” she tells me. “Everything we sell has a story…a beautiful story”.
The handmade aspect of When the North Wind Blows is what appeals to me most, and Nicole’s dedication to this ethos is an inspiring one. She is all about supporting the artisans who make the products, with a strong focus on empowering women.
“The business I hope, communicates that no matter the race, colour, creed – women around the world love creating, art, fashion and style and that sisterhood should be communicated and celebrated”.
The homewares themselves are pretty dreamy – and I love that they can be worked into a variety of interior schemes. I’m losing my mind over the Vintage Kantha Throws and Moroccan Pouffes, which Nicole is also a fan of.
“They are versatile. Great as side tables, extra seating or for the purpose they were made for…the feet!”
Below: The Kilim Boots are made from hand-loomed Kilim Rugs, by Berbers in the Atlas Mountains. Nicole admits she wears them a lot, “the Kilim boots don’t come off!”.)
When asked to elaborate on where the name of her business comes from, Nicole’s explanation really cements what her venture is about.
“When The North Wind Blows…it signals a Gypsy’s spirit to move on. That is exactly what we do… travel from village to village and seek new and amazing things and then, move on to the next”.
When the North Wind Blows: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
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TO GO IN THE DRAW TO WIN A KANTHA THROW:
Like When the North Wind Blows on Facebook
Click here to check out the collection of Kantha Throws
Drop a comment below naming your fave throw and why!
(Valid for Australian residents only. Comp closes 11.59pm Sunday July 6)
Number 20 is gorgeous rich in colours that make me think nature…..such unique and honourable rugs individual and perfect in their heritage I’m in love with all these beautiful creations
Definitely the Vintage Kantha Throw – Design 20, it’s mixes of green and yellow times work perfectly on the natural base. Perfect as a statement throw for nuetral room!
*tones
I adore the earthy and organic tones of the Vintage Kantha Throw design 9. But I especially adore the mandala print that runs through the pattern……I love to draw mandalas and immediately felt a connection which is so important with homewares you’ll live with and love for life!
They are all fabulous! But I love design 4 the most, those lovely purple feminine colours would go perfectly with everything I own!
I loved looking through these pictures. What makes each one special is that each one is unique And handmade by talented ladies. Its nice to know that by buying one we are also helping someone. My pick would be 9, i love the rich colours And patterns.
Design 14 . It reminds me of all the seasons – new growth in spring, green grass in summer , leaves falling in autumn and snuggly warm in winter
I’m in love with no.9 – it’s gorgeous!!! It has my favourite colour blue in it!!!!! Blue makes me feel calm and serene!!!!!
All gorgeous, surprised that I like #27 because I don’t normally go for pinks!
I’ve fallen in love with Vintage Kantha Throw – Design 23. It’s just beautiful and romantic.
Love them all but Design 25 is by far my favourite. The pop of colours are so gorgeous. It would be the star of my vintage tropical garden patio. Love your work!