Behind The Brand: Little Eskimo

Little Eskimo’s adorable hand-made baby and infant clothing are out-of-this-world lovely. Here, creator and maker Melissa Harwin explains how every little piece is created from the heart, designed for play and is easy to care for. Genius!

You are the designer, creator, seamstress and maker of such gorgeous baby and toddler pieces! How you manage all this?

I am the designer and seamstress for the business!But at my busiest times, like when I am launching a new line of products, I am fortunate to have the help of my amazing Mum–she’s a very talented seamstress who always stays focused and understands the business well.

As my children and the business have simultaneously grown, I do admit life can be a bit busy at times. Actually, it is ridiculously hectic, and that is an understatement! But even though it takes a lot of time, motivation and passion, I feel extremely lucky to have been able to turn my hobby into a business.

What is your background and training?

My background was working as an Executive Assistant. I did this for many years, and up until the birth of my first child eight years ago.

I have always been interested in sewing and designing–even through school. However, it wasn’t until I was living in London in my mid 20s that I started to become interested in it even more. I completed a few sewing courses and training while abroad and have never really let it go since.

What was the inspiration behind the Little Eskimo business?

Following the birth of my first son, I found it really difficult to find nursery linen and bedding that was unique, well-made and fun.Once my second son was born, about five years ago, I started sewing cot sheets and blankets and selling them on Etsy, and regularly visited the local boutique markets.

Stepping into the market scene brought some new direction for the business, and I discontinued the nursery bedding and turned my attention towards designing and making children’s clothing that is not only stylish, but also well-made and practical.

The prints and shapes and styles are LOVELY! Tell us about the choices behind each piece you create?

The philosophy behind Little Eskimo is very much focused on quality over quantity, with small batches of each design released at a time and individually handmade.

I like to choose prints and patterns which are very minimalistic yet fun! I can literally sit at my computer for days trying to find the right fitting prints for each product.

What was life like launching a new business with a baby?

It was extremely busy, and I definitely needed a lot of patience. I remember there were a lot of sleepless nights and very long days. However, when it is a passion, it always feels much easier to push through and continue to try and strive for the best.

Tell us about the fabrics you use?

The majority of fabrics I use are a cotton and spandex blend-95% cotton and 5% spandex.

The fabric is very gentle on the skin, super soft and washes really well.

The spandex blend I use for the stretch in the fabric is much easier on those beautiful little chubby baby legs.

Explain the Little Eskimo business philosophy?

My philosophy has always been about creating fun, practical and quality made clothing that is designed to be worn time and time again. When a customer purchases something for their child, they can rest-assured that their support makes a huge difference to my family too.

Want to see the products up close? Come to our next Sydney baby expo or Melbourne baby expo by visiting our Sydney baby expo page here or our Melbourne baby expo page here.