PDX Profile: Stacie Barth, creatrix of Sew Many Cats

This week, we're meeting Stacie Barth, who makes stuffed cats . . . . But not merely cute or fluffy cats. We're talking Ninja Cats. Buddha Cats. Sock Monkey Cats. You can meet them all, and some wonderful owls and birds, at her website.

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Tell us about your work - what kinds of things do you make?
I primarily sew cat dolls. I also make owls, little birds and fabric buttons made with my scrap material. My first love has always been hand embroidery. I think it shows up in the hand work I put into my cats. Aside from my sewing projects I am always making something. Magnets, brooches, paintings or drawings. I also crochet and recently started learning how to knit.

How did you get started making all those awesome cats?
About 2 years ago, I decided to teach myself how to sew. I purchased my first sewing machine. When I got it home I wanted to make something right away. I was trying to figure out what I really like and the first thing that came to mind was my cat. I started sketching and came up with a pattern. I made a few patterns in between the one I have settled on. I am a major DIYer. I make all of my own patterns. Sometimes I even just take the fabric or whatever I am working with and freehand the whole project. I am not one for following directions.

What kinds of things inspire you in your creative work?
Cats, (that was obvious I think). I'm also heavily inspired by the materials I use. Sometimes I see a particular piece of fabric, or a certain color of thread - and I just get an idea. I guess I'm a very organic and sensory person. I like to see, feel and touch things. Fabric, thread, paint, paper, colored pencils, yarn, felt, birds, trees, animals, toys, stuffed creatures, nature, music, reading, food. I think it's possible to be inspired by just about anything.

Out of all the cats you've made, do you have a favorite?
I have two favorites. Kanji the ninja cat (that particular little fella has inspired me to write and sketch out a little book that will hopefully be ready very soon!), and the very first cat I made. It's crafted with this darling little vintage yellow flower print material. I only had a tiny scrap so I made a tiny kitty. (And then it began, hehe).

How do you define the difference between "Art" and "Craft?"
To me, art is something that moves me when it is being created. Or an item that evokes a strong emotion when I look at it. Much like seeing something that you could not fathom replicating. Craft is more of a project for me. Something I've done over and over.

What is your favorite creative spot in Portland?
My own sewing space at home.