South40 Designs... What are they and how are they made?
At South40 Designs, we are all about upcycling and repurposing! If the sewing machine's needle goes through the fabric, we will use it in our wall hangings and magnets. We use materials such as upholstery fabric, clothing and curtains. Techniques such as hand-dying, threadpainting (free motion stitching) and machine applique are used to add details to each originally designed piece. Janome and Bernini sewing machines are the tools we use daily to create this artwork. No pre-programmed, computer designs are used on these machines... just a lot of time, practice and hand-eye coordination.
Once the wall hangings are sewn to perfection, we stretch the base fabric over a wooden frame and attach picture hanging hardware to the back. All you have to do is hang it on your wall and enjoy! If you purchased an unframed wall hanging, just throw it in a frame of your choice. (if you're wondering, they look fantastic in a matted frame!)
Canadian provincial magnets are made with the same techniques as the wall hangings, but instead of framing this artwork, we sew our designs onto a magnet! These mini treasures have been a #1 seller for tourists visiting places in Canada or taking travelling as host or trading gifts. Did you know that Saskatchewan magnets have been spotted all around the world?! Check out the hashtag #StuckonSaskatchewan to see for yourself!

Who is Allison Brandt Malinski?
Allison is (and has always been) about small, independent business, the arts, and just living a quiet, creative lifestyle. In 2003, after a decision to leave a retail job in the photography world (another passion for another story), she registered for a one year, fashion design course in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Although Allison never considered her personal fashion statement to be a priority, she quickly learned how to use a sewing machine and discovered a love of working with fabric. This life decision (20 years ago) was the starting point to open her eyes to the vast, wonderful world of textiles in all forms!

Tucked away in the corner of a tiny, Saskatchewan village, Allison is gifted inspiration from mother nature. Just beyond her studio door, the wide-open prairies, ever changing seasons, and the vibrant colors overhead in the ‘Land of the Living Skies’ are never taken for granted. She has the freedom to create full-time in her backyard studio, dig in the dirt in her spacious garden, hang with her two creative, teenage kiddos and spend time with her loving, talented, VERY supportive, husband (AND hard-working co-worker when asked)! She wouldn’t be pursing her passion, her business and (sometimes) crazy ideas without the support of her family.