Perhaps best known for designing the Sarapapers, Sarabooks and Sarabinders ranges, here Sara takes some time out of her busy schedule to chat with Beverley Todd.

If you were stuck on a desert island what three things would you take with you?

Hmmm . . . a desert island sounds really appealing right now in the midst of our wet and windy Oregon winter!

If it’s for holiday, all I need is a nice fat book and some sunscreen—otherwise I’ll be as red as a lobster! But if you mean for scrapbooking, I’d have to say a paper trimmer, loads of patterned paper and my computer so I could catch up on my journaling! (Not sure where I’d plug that in, but this is fantasy, right?)

If you were limited to using only one product range, which would it be?

Right now I’m in love with our 8”x8” range of papers and matching albums. I made two mini scrapbooks as gifts for Christmas, and the paper packs made it so easy. (I made one of them in a day—a miracle for me.) Even better, the papers are perfect for cardmaking.

Describe your crafting style in five words.

Shabby chic, eclectic, distressed, lumpy (I love lumpy embellishments!). I’d also have to say ”wordy” as I love to incorporate words, quotes and sayings on my cards, tags, mini books and collages. It’s part of being an English Lit major at university, I think!

If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?

I love the craft industry and working at Hot Off The Press—so I’d probably still gravitate toward that. If I was completely outside the craft industry, though, I’d probably do something in social services . . . looking for ways to eradicate homelessness or feeding the hungry.

Bulk makes or exclusive one–offs?

Usually one–offs—I know it takes more time and energy but for me, the best part of crafting is making something totally unique and perfectly suited for the person who’s receiving it. I often do versions of things . . . for example, I’ll make handmade books for lots of different people using the same basic techniques—but the colors and embellishments and theme will be tailored to each person. Christmas cards are a bit different, though: I’ll come up with a basic card layout, then change up the papers and embellishments.

How many Christmas cards did you make?

This year, only 25 handmade cards! Like most crafters, I do different types of handmade cards for different people: Simple cards for the people I know are going to toss them in the recycle bin after Christmas, and more elaborate cards for those who save them. (You always know the other crafters on your list, don’t you?)

What, or who, inspires you?

I get most inspired when I least expect it: In the shower, right before drifting off to sleep, or in the middle of yoga class. I’ve got to be relaxed . . . inspiration comes when it comes! (Unfortunately it’s rarely when you’re in a crunch.) I also get a lot of inspiration from museums ... the National Portrait Gallery is one of my all-time favorite places for inspiration, and I go there every time I’m in London. I see something new every time. I’m always on the lookout for art exhibits done by young people—teenagers and university students—because they’re often the most daring types of art, using materials and techniques (including digital photography) that really push the envelope and make you think.

Where would you most like to craft?

That desert island sounds pretty good! J

Actually, my very favorite place to craft is my basement studio . . . this is where I’ve got all my little bits and pieces: Ribbon, fabric, paper, buttons, charcoal pencils . . . the list goes on! If I were crafting anywhere else, I’d have to pack it all up! I know where (most) everything is here, and I can go from one type of project to another.

Describe your perfect day.

Sleeping in, a leisurely breakfast with my husband at our favorite café down the street from our house, maybe some rain or snow to keep us tucked up indoors . . . then a nice long lazy day with a pile of unread books and maybe a craft project or two.

A close friend asks you to help organise her wedding. What makes would you suggest?

Funny you should ask, as that’s exactly what I’m doing right now! We’re making her invitations (thank goodness it’s not a huge wedding), table settings and the jewelry for the bridesmaids.