Welcome to Naka Made!
My name is Nga and I love to create! be it crafting, crocheting, natural dyeing, and more recently, bilingual storytelling - to name but a few.
My first passion is sewing.
Growing up, I learnt to straight stitch on an industrial sewing machine in my parents’ home workshop. They sewed clothes for a living after arriving in Australia as refugees from Vietnam. I picked up sewing again when I was pregnant with my daughter. I taught myself how to make a baby quilt and enjoyed the process so much.
Enter Naka Made; namesake from a nickname given by my Japanese school teacher, “Nakachan”. I started Naka Made in 2016 as a creative outlet and to sell made-to-order quilts and other sewn items. I enjoy sewing beautiful pieces that are loved by my customers. More recently, I have branched into garment sewing on commission.
My other passion is teaching.
Professionally, I have a PhD in Environmental Microbiology and teach Science/Medical Science/Pharmacy university students. I enjoy sharing my curiosity for the weird and wonderful world of microbes with my students.
Beyond the lab, I have facilitated textile workshops at my local bookstore Lost in Books. I also offer private sewing lessons in my home.
Naka Made has evolved into a true passion project over the years. My aim is to create, share, and encourage everyone to nurture their creativity; no matter how big or small. So, do reach out for collaboration and projects.