Natty: Celebrating nature through timeless design

In a studio shop nestled in Island Bay, Wellington, artist Cat has been quietly building her brand, Natty, into a beloved local treasure. Combining simple, classic designs with sustainable materials, Cat’s creations reflect her deep appreciation for New Zealand’s natural beauty. 

Cat’s journey as an artist began as a side hobby with a friend. “It was just for fun, designing and making things to sell at local markets,” she says. Over time, this passion project blossomed into a full-time business. Today, Natty operates as an online store, wholesaler and a brick-and-mortar studio shop where Cat not only creates her pieces but also supports other New Zealand-made goods. 

Much of Cat’s inspiration comes from her surroundings. “The beauty and nature of our country – plants, flowers, creatures, landscapes and a lot of birds – drive my designs,” she says. Her Puriri Moth earrings and necklace, her favourite pieces, are a testament to this connection. 

Artist Cat painting at her studio in Wellington using Resenetestpots.  

One of Cat’s favourite pieces, her Puriri Moth Necklace, painted in Resene Kumutoto, Resene Kombi and Resene White. 

Cat’s creative process is as meticulous as it is thoughtful. Starting with sketches on her iPad using Procreate, she transforms her designs into tangible art by laser-cutting Rimu wood panels. Each piece undergoes testing to perfect its details and size before being hand-painted with Resene paints. After assembly, the jewellery is finished with beeswax polish for a refined touch. 

Some of Cat’s creations delicately painted in a mix of Resene Kombi, Resene Kumutoto, Resene White, Resene Black and Resene Gondwana. 

These Natty Blue Butterfly Earrings are hand painted with Resene Azure, Resene White and Resene Dalek metallic paint. 

Resene paints play a pivotal role in Cat’s work. “I’ve always used Resene paints because they’re a New Zealand business, and they make environmentally sustainable waterborne paints that are easy to use and hard-wearing,” she says. Her palette draws from the natural tones of her designs, favouring greens and blues that harmonise with the warmth of wood. Currently, Cat’s favourite Resene shade is Resene Kombi, a versatile hue that she often incorporates into her work. 

This Natty Pohutukawa Brooch ispainted in Resene Pohutukawa.