KIDS’ CORNER

the wallpapered nursery

Nurseries have long moved on from being fully papered (rather overwhelming for a little person’s space) to just one feature wall – a timeless decorative device that works in any space, large or small. Although it’s tempting to let loose with colour and pattern, it’s not a bad idea to keep the wallpaper eye-catching but not overwhelming; rather introduce those elements through soft furnishings and accessories. Our pick of the perfect nurseryfriendly paper is Orla in Fog, part of the new collection by Skinny la Minx with Robin Sprong Wallpaper. Good to know for parents concerned about glues and emissions: this new type of pre-gummed wallpaper is PVC free, 100% recyclable and printed with nontoxic latex inks. This pretty-as-a-picture nursery belongs to stylist, writer and blogger Vicki Sleet from the popular I Want That blog (iwantthat.co.za) and is currently being resided in by her newborn poppet. To see the full range, visit robinsprong.com or skinnylaminx.com.

crafty inspiration

If you’re looking for the ultimate boredom busters with an ecofriendly message for children, then you’ll love Recycled Crafting For Kids and Eco-Friendly Crafting

With Kids, both from R220 (Ryland, Peters & Small). Author and crafter extraordinaire Kate Lilley shows a myriad mindboggling possibilities using junk and found objects. Both available at Kalahari, kalahari.com.

doodle crazy

We were instantly drawn to these beautiful cushions by Frances White, the artist turned surface designer, from My Favourite Colour. What gives them a delightful twist is the story behind their creation: the images, drawn by White, were given to children to colour in, and the resulting juxtaposition of finely crafted artistic renderings and naive, bright squiggles, haphazard lines and whirls gives them a charming personality full of energy and fun. Picturebook Johannesburg Garden Birds cushion cover, from R389, available from Meekel, meekel.co.za. See more of White’s work at myfavouritecolour.someammo.com.

gummy drops

Winter is the perfect excuse to get some colour and pattern on your kids’ feet. We’re head over heels in love with the gumboot offerings from Cotton On Kids, from R169

a pair.