Few can tell you what they’re trying to do. Even fewer can realize those visions. DIY Artist and Designer Erena Te Paa is one of the few who have this gift.

Each and every piece is infused with her signature touch of whimsy and imagination, making them one-of-a-kind treasures to house in one’s living or workspace.

We had the pleasure of chatting with Erena to get a behind-the-scenes look at her creative genius. Where does she get the idea to turn a mat into wall art? Construct a Christmas tree out of rocks? And transform a gym ball into a plant pot?

P: Pendulum Magazine

E: Erena Te Paa

P: How did you begin your career in DIY?

E: As a kid, I relished the opportunity to craft, sew or make items from scratch, and while I didn’t set out to make it my career, my love for DIY has evolved in a very practical way: in making pieces for my own home or in styling a room for a client. For me, DIY is really about learning by doing. It’s about having an idea and having the confidence to make it real.  

P: What materials, textures and colours do you love?

E: I’m drawn to earthy tones and natural materials as these, when brought together in a space, bring me a sense of calm. I’m drawn to wooden furniture and natural stone, interesting shapes and natural imperfections, whether in the patina of an aged vessel or a unique wood grain detail.

P: How would you describe your aesthetic and style?

E: Simple, elegant, peaceful. At least, this is the overall feeling I strive for.

P: We saw your video, which currently has 5.7 million views featuring the gym ball you repurposed to make a plant pot, and we have a question: Where do you find ideas for new designs and scrap materials?

E: It varies. Oftentimes an idea comes from seeing an object or piece of furniture and envisioning it a different way, for example, a fun writing desk that resembles a robot. Platforms like Pinterest might spark an idea or help brainstorm, but it’s also working with what I have and building upon that. This includes materials. I’ve built up an array of tools, paint and leftover materials over the years that I will often use or re-use in my designs.  

P: What do you notice when creating product designs to make them interesting and beautiful?

E: I am drawn to different textures and interesting materials and try to incorporate these into my work. There is an element of trial and error and experimentation in everything I create and also in trusting my eye.

P: What are your three secrets in design?

E:

1. Stay curious. Experiment and be open to trying something new. 

2. Take inspiration from the unexpected. It could be the patterns on a pavement or the handle of a cup. Small details can spark big ideas.

3. Don’t be afraid to be different. Even if the design or idea seems a little odd or offbeat, trust your design instincts and create for yourself first. This helps you to stay true to your own aesthetic and point of view.

P: We saw you using fabric as wallpaper in a recent Instagram video. What inspired you to do this? How did you like the results?

E: I was sampling different fabric pieces in my son’s room with the intention of making curtains, only to be drawn to the prospect of using a striped piece of fabric as wallpaper, and so I began to experiment with the idea. I love the result and would consider doing it again if the right fabric comes along.    

P: Are there any key projects that significantly impacted your development and growth as an artist?

E: There hasn’t been one specific project that has been more impactful to my growth than the slow and steady renovation of our home. I am self-taught in the sense that I have learnt how to make things by experimenting with my own style over the years. By using tools and upcycling pieces of furniture, whether out of necessity or curiosity, my growth has come from using what I have as a canvas to explore what I am capable of.

P: What additional materials and/or art mediums are you excited to work with or incorporate into your upcoming projects?

E: I am excited to revisit and evolve some projects like the concrete pot but I will also be repurposing secondhand items into new furniture pieces. I’ll also be experimenting with wood veneer, twine and cement, to name a few.

We are just as excited to follow along on Erena’s path forward as one of the most inspiring DIY artists on our list. What will she come up with next? If you want to be the first to know about her latest creations, follow her on Instagram and TikTok.

Photos courtesy of Erena Te Paa