The Bonnet That Stayed On
On Ruby, and the Sydney beginnings of
little arvo
Ruby is a Sydney-based mumma, and the maker behind the bear bonnets you may already have seen, the ones known as little arvo.
She is a boy mum who, like most of us, likes to start the day with a coffee and a homemade breakfast, all while her son plays independently nearby.
The bonnet that stayed on
She has always been a maker. But when her son arrived she ran into a problem: she couldn’t find a bonnet that would actually stay on without him pulling it off, and still look cute.
So she grabbed some scrap fabric. The rest, as these things go, is history.
In two days she had the softest cotton bonnet concept formed, and her son wouldn’t take it off. Understandably, he collected a lot of compliments everywhere he wore it.
What holds the days
On the harder days she loves an afternoon nap with her son, and debriefing with her village: her parents, her partner. Her sketchbook and some snacks help too.
When the day comes to an end, she resets with a walk outside with her son, or a good long shower, even at 1am. Funny, but shower thoughts are her clearest, and mentally her most productive time.
For anyone just beginning
“Just keep going, even at a snail’s pace, you’re still moving closer to your dream.”
Made to be held onto
Years from now, Ruby hopes that children feel a sense of comfort and warmth when they see or remember their handmade bonnet.
That they know the person behind it took a lot of care and love, to make sure that outdoor playtime is safe and whimsical.
— With love, The Ditsy.
Celebrating the hands behind the handmade.