About KiwiDesigNZ

 

 

“Kiwi (/kiːwiː/) is the nickname used internationally for people from New Zealand”— WIKIPEDIA

I am Cathy Geraths, originally from New Zealand. I created Kiwi DesigNZ (yes, the “NZ” stands for New Zealand) out of a love of beautiful fabrics combined with modern design ideas, in turn creating functional and artistic blankets and bedroom decor.

Each of my blankets have been inspired by vibrant colors, soft tones, metallic highlights or dimensional patterns, depending on what I am feeling on creation day.  Who doesn’t like to snuggle up with a soft blanket that makes them feel safe and loved, or curl up with a great book, a favorite movie, or companion?

After navigating the “covid-chapter,” and sewing thousands of face masks, I searched for additional ways to feed my soul and discovered the pleasure of compiling and joining multiple fabrics and textures into designs that were pleasing to the eye and heart  … and Kiwi Designz stylish blankets was born!   

I discovered my love for sewing at age eight.  At age 11, while my classmates in home economics were making aprons, I was perfecting my jacket-making skills, complete with lining, zippers and pockets.

By age 14, I was designing and making dance wear. Soon my dance friends, and even my home economics teacher, were asking if they could purchase my work … and I was off and running with my first entrepreneurial enterprise.

Years later, I learned that I came from a family of talented tailors and dressmakers. My paternal great grandfather was a tailor in London’s High Street district, and my maternal grandmother was a talented dressmaker. Their skills were passed down to my Mum and my paternal grandmother, who both spent many patient hours teaching me everything they knew, from tatting, embroidery, tapestry, crochet, knitting and sewing.

Over the years I’ve explored many different forms of sewing - creating everything from rugby jerseys, tracksuits, costumes, prom and wedding attire, mens shirts, women’s suits and dresses, baby, toddler and kids clothing, maternity wear, and items of home decor.

Kiwi DesigNZ is my newest and most meaningful creative venture yet. Enjoy, and welcome to my world.