Introduction
The process of designing my garments begins
with dyeing the yarns. I use wool, silk, cotton and linen, using space- and
tie-dyeing to obtain a range of subtle patterns and colours, which are
knitted as jumpers, jackets, waistcoats, hats, scarves and cushions.
Having trained in textile design at Surrey
Institute of Art and Design, Farnham, and worked with hand printed textiles,
I began designing and making hand knitwear in 1980. This background has made
me approach knitting as a way of constructing both a fabric and a
3-dimensional shape, exploring what the technique can do to alter the drape,
thickness and stretch of the material.
 As
well as an enjoyment of colour, texture and pattern, I explore shaping
through the structure of knitting, designing clothes knitted all in one
piece with emphasis on construction. My ideas for textures and colours are
sourced from the surrounding countryside, gardens, drawing landscape and
visiting museums while travelling. Designs for shapes are influenced
sometimes by studies of ethnic dress from around the world, but also from
discussions with people trying on the garments, and seeing how different
designs work on different people.
Teaching part-time for the last twenty-five
years with textile groups around the UK has stimulated more research into
technique and history, and inspired further exploration into designing.
My work is sold through galleries and craft
fairs, and commissions are undertaken for special pieces, and for a range of
sizes.
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