I am a textile artist and teacher who specialises in kantha stitching and natural dyeing which I love in equal measure, and I love to share my passion with others. I was taught to sew by my mum and I loved my children’s Holly Hobby sewing machine. I am rarely found without a needle in my hand and love being driven to places so I can sit back and stitch. I love the simplicity of kantha work that you can take needle, thread and fabric, and combine with just one stitch, the running stitch, to create abstract and representational images with lots of texture.
My first foray into natural dyeing came over 40 years ago when I first deliberately squashed elderberries on to the bottom of a white dress. I constantly love the surprise element of natural dyeing and use many plants native to the United Kingdom.
I specialise in using woad, the oldest blue plant dye in Northern Europe. It gives me a real thrill to use a plant that was grown so far back in time. When I am dyeing with woad I am part of history, walking with Robin Hood in his Lincoln Green or with Boudiccea and her warriors .
The inspiration and colour palette from the Fenland environment in which I live provide constant stimuli for my work, whether I am dyeing or stitching. Walking my dogs allows me to get out on a daily basis and the wonderful camera phone enables me to capture this ever-changing landscape.
I love to share my studio space with others and run regular workshops there. The gentle movement of needle and thread and a constant supply of tea and coffee means happy stitchers!
I attend major stitching shows across the country both to teach and to bring my “shop”. I enjoy travel and am more than happy to travel to groups, here in the United Kingdom and around the world. This allows me to experience different environments which provide me with design ideas. As well as my workshops I am happy to come and give your group a talk to share my passion and enthusiasm.
I have had my work exhibited on a number of occasions including at Lincoln Cathedral, Sam Scorer Gallery, The Carre Gallery in Sleaford, Tranmer House in Sutton Hoo and the Yarrow Gallery in Oundle. I have had a number of articles on natural dyeing and stitched projects published in national craft magazines.
I am a qualified teacher, BEd(Hons) and adult tutor, I have a City and Guilds Diploma in Patchwork and Quilting. I enjoy being a member of the Quilters’ Guild and have held the position of National Young Quilters Officer. I love to share my ideas and enthusiasm with others. I have full public liability insurance.
Looking forward to meeting you soon.
Address
Unique Cottage Studios
Fulney Lane South
Spalding
Lincolnshire
PE12 6FA
United Kingdom
