Makers on Main forge a seamless return to quality

Savvy shoppers are increasingly turning to bespoke, quality handmade goods — rejecting those built to break — and four crafty ladies from Samford couldn’t be more happy.

Pauline Forsdick, Elyne Osborne, Joy Cawdron and Mekaela Ferrero opened their shop, Makers on Main, in January, after the success of a pop-up shop they ran before Christmas.

They all share a passion for creating quality handmade products including quilts, soft toys, bags, clothes, homewares, wall hangings and even fairy wings.

Mekaela says that they enjoy producing something different that’s made to last.

“There’s so much mass produced, lower quality stuff out there that people enjoy getting quality stuff that’s not going to fall apart after the first wash,” she explains.

The goods make perfect gifts and can be custom-made for special occasions or to incorporate a name.

They have created a warm and open space in the shop, with a bay window and veranda adding to the cottage feel. “It’s been really good. Everybody oohs and aahs when they first come in. That’s really gratifying,” Joy says.

They already have a loyal local following and have welcomed visitors from overseas who have popped in while exploring Samford Village. “What we sell is made in Australia and it’s lightweight and easy to travel with,” Pauline says.

They not only stock their own handiwork, but also quality goods crafted by others in the district. These include candles, pottery, key rings and lamps. “That’s our ethos: make locally, sell locally,” Pauline says.

Joy reveals that the group support and help each other, and couldn’t do what they do as individuals.

They spend dozens of hours every week sewing, mostly at home, but if there are quiet moments in the shop they do a bit out the back.

“It’s my happy place. There I can zone out and focus on creating something,” Elyne says.

Customers enjoy watching them work and many have asked the ladies to run classes. It’s a move they are resisting for now, as they focus on building up the retail side of the venture.

Pauline says Samford is quickly becoming a creative hub, and she predicts big things for the future. “I see Samford at the moment like Maleny and Montville in their early stages.”

Makers on Main is open Tuesday to Friday, 9am-4.30pm; Saturday, 9am-4pm; and Sunday, 9am-2pm. Search Makers on Main on Facebook or phone 0458 966 151.