What I do
I design and make one-of-a-kind hand-dyed and woven rugs and wall hangings for exclusive interiors. Durable and natural wool or cotton yarn is used for the weft and strong linen threads for the warp. I use traditional techniques combined with contemporary design to create bespoke commissioned work for private collectors, interior designers, architects and places of worship.
My rugs and wall hangings are in public and private collections in the UK and USA. I exhibit my work throughout the UK at quality galleries and craft fairs. I occasionally run textile-related workshops and give illustrated talks about my weaving work to craft guilds and art groups.
Jobs in textiles
Jobs in textiles include:
Professional designer, maker, manufacturer, sole trader, employed by the textile industry, workshop leader, public speaker, dyer, spinner, technical assistant in a weaving workshop, college or university, author, journalist, expert, lecturer, teacher, mentor, artist in residence, gallery educator, policy maker, freelance artist, consultant, event organizer, administrator, occupational therapist, inventor, researcher, curator and archivist to name a few. I have actually done most of these jobs myself!
As a full time, self employed sole trader, I am completely responsible for all the many and varied tasks that are related to running my small creative business. Half of my work routine involves designing, making, dyeing, setting up my loom, winding yarns, weaving and finishing. The other half of my time is dedicated to marketing and administration including bookkeeping, research and development, business training, email marketing, newsletter / blog writing, databases, promotion and publicity, social media and everything else involved.
My schedule is full each day, but I like the variety.
Why craft?
From my earliest memories I have always enjoyed creative activities, learning new craft skills and making things with my hands. My interest in yarns and textiles first began as a young child when my granny and mum patiently taught me how to knit, crochet and sew. When I was ten my family traveled around Europe for several months where we visited many incredible museums and art galleries. This experience gave me a fundamental interest and great appreciation of modern and classical art, design and architecture.
When I was growing up we lived near a university and I occasionally walked through the art department on my way home from school. I can clearly remember being fascinated to see all the colourful threads and hear the rhythmic beat of the floor looms. I was enchanted. I did not imagine then that I would become a weaver, but I definitely knew I wanted to be an artist.