Sponsor Spotlight: Polly Taylor Designs

Our living room is full of traditional furniture: Two blue chairs, a coffee table and a dark-green couch, complete with matching throw pillows. But if I had it my way, I’d add splashes of color everywhere, and when I discovered the United Kingdom-based Polly Taylor Designs, I knew exactly where I’d start. Polly’s handmade cushions, art and greeting cards are bright, bold and fun, which plays into her creativity passed down from her parents. Read on to find out what inspires Polly and her exclusive decorating tips! xoxo

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Tell me about Polly Taylor Designs. What’s the inspiration behind its launch?
I’ve always been interested in making things and being creative, and as my parents are both creative people, they encouraged me to take this path through my education. After studying Interior Textile Design at Somerset University, I’ve gone on to design, make and sell my own products. I saw a gap in the market for bright, colorful, contemporary designs!

Your shop features so many inspiring things. What inspires you the most?
I love to use bright color; exploring and experimenting with color is something I can never do enough of. I live for it! Also I use maps, landscapes and geometrical shapes a lot in my work. I like to look at things from a bird’s eye view!

What are your top 3 tips for shopping online and finding great deals…
1). Don’t get distracted — have a clear goal in mind. I find it helps to write a list of exactly what I’m looking for.
2). Don’t be afraid of using smaller, boutique sites like Shoply.com.
3). Don’t be afraid to ask questions — if the seller is a good business person, they will go out of their way to answer any questions you might have, even if you don’t end up buying anything from them!

How can people still decorate for less? Any tips for decorating with pillows/cushions?
Using wallpaper to cover old furniture is always a good tip; it makes such an instant difference. With cushions, I say don’t be afraid to mix and match. Go for contrasting patterns and colors, stripes with plain, etc. Your instinct will tell you when to stop!

What is your favorite piece in your shop and why?
I love my silk screen-printed cushions because I know how much hard work and craftsmanship has gone into making each individual one! Also my new digitally printed cushions that will be on my Web site shortly!