Designer Profile - Zeena Shah

By Kate Marsden

I'm excited this week to introduce multi-talented designer Zeena Shah. Zeena shares her thoughts on the Just A Card campaign and gives us a little insight into her working life in East London...

Tell us a little about you. What do you do? 

Hello! My name is Zeena Shah and I am a printed textile designer, illustrator, author and workshop tutor. I have just published my second book, and teach regular printmaking workshops alongside making and selling a collection of hand printed goods for your home.

What does a typical day involve?

I live in East London a short walk away from my Dalston studio space, and head there first thing grabbing a coffee on route to get the day started. I'll usually spend the first part of the day answering emails and making a to do list. I'm a bit of a list obsessive and write one everyday so I can keep track of my hectic schedule.

Where do you work? What is your studio space like? What do you enjoy doing when you're not working?

I work from a desk space in a lovely light and bright studio in Dalston. It's very white and filled with colour from all of the ephemera I collect during my daily life. I have a peg board right in from of my desk that I can pin all of my inspirations/ to do's and planner onto.

I love pilates when I can squeeze in a class, otherwise you'll mostly find me in an independent restaurant or bar. I'm a real foodie. 

What ambitions do you have for your business over the next few years?

I'd like to launch a new collection of textile and paper goods, perhaps another book and start up an open access print studio... maybe one day who knows!

Please share any favourite independent shops/galleries and tell us why you like them.

My favourites;

Material Gallery - Filled with beautiful and inspiring books, prints and stationery. They hosted my Scandia book launch party too.

Molly Meg - Lovely things for little ones.

Chase and Sorenson - Gorgeous scandi inspired furniture and trinkets for your home to lust after.

Had you realised  the Just A Card campaign message suggests cards as an example of a small purchase - we're about encouraging all sales as they keep businesses afloat?  

Yes, I think it's a great idea. With just a small purchase you really can make all the difference and boost a small business.

How important is the Just A Card campaign message to you and your business?

The Just A Card campaign is hugely important it sends out a subtle reminder to buyers that just a couple of pounds can make all the difference for an independent designer maker.

Where did you hear about the campaign & what do you think people can do to support Just A Card?

I first heard about the campaign from Sarah Hamilton and thought it was a brilliant initiative that rings true to all small businesses. Just a card is often all it takes to help keep us afloat.