5 Questions: science + crafting = awesome

There's just something about science that I love, I guess it's because being creative is all about experimentation; and so; obviously, is science. There is a whole sub-genre of Geekery on Etsy; nerd with cool factor thrown in for good measure. and one of my favourite Geekery shops on Etsy is Scientific Culture. With a range of items from famous scientist finger puppets, Microbe button and magnet sets and stuffed e-coli bacteria that not only have cool factor, but also some serious cuteness quotient to boot! I've had my eye on the Dinosaur buttons for the Peanut's birthday grab bags and they're in the mail as I type this. They are going to be a huge hit with the Peanut's friends.

Every last bit of it is part of Kate McCurrach's quest to meld science and art. With a degree in cellular, molecular, microbial biology Kate is mad about everything science and she loves to spread her excitement through her cute science crafts. Kate expands her love of combining creativity with science in her blog of the same name. You can also follow her on Twitter, and go ahead and "like" scientific culture on Facebook too. When you're finished there; head over to flickr to take a sneak peak into all things scientific culture.

For answers to my most pressing questions, keep reading. As always if you see something you like, click on the picture to get more information; all images are linked to the corresponding Etsy listing.

So, without further ado:

Can you describe the palette you use to create with, what colours do you always “reach” for?

I’m a huge fan of all muted and jewel tones. They let me keep my projects bright and punchy without being too overwhelming.

Do you listen to music when you create? If yes, what's on your play list right now and why?

Music is a wonderful influence on my creating; it helps me keep to a strong positive work ethic and makes long nights of embroidery or photoshop run smoothly. Right now I’ve been listening to a lot of CBC Radio 3 inspired folk-y musicians (Aidan Knight, Dan Mangan, Matthew Barber) as well as some melodic females (Laura Marling, Regina Spektor). I sometimes throw in some more upbeat Canadians (Mother Mother, Tegan and Sara, Said the Whale) depending on my mood – plus it feels great to support Canadian musical culture!

What got you started?

I’ve been crafting for as long as I can remember and am always exploring ways to meld science (influenced from my degree in cellular, molecular, microbial biology) and art! I decided to take the plunge into Etsy selling after three long months of medical leave and some helpful branding from a graphic designer friend.



If you were granted 3 wishes to furnish your dream studio space, what do you choose and why?

Wish 1 – Unlimited funds! I’d love to be able to focus my life on creating but the realities of life (and budget) really don’t allow for it.

Wish 2 – New tools! What I wouldn’t give for a serger, sharper pair of pinking sheers, and a cat free cutting table!

Wish 3 – Martha Stewart’s design team. Mmm…



Which Children's book character would you be and why?

Hermione Granger - overachieving, book smart, and drawn to red heads.