I learned embroidery and knitting from my mother and grandmother. My mother does mainly knitting and did some dressmaking when I was a child. My grandmother was far more interested in a variety of ‘crafts’ and always produced beautiful work . She was always working on pieces of sewing, embroidery, smocking or tatting. She often made gifts such as aprons, dresser sets, table runners, peg bags and monogrammed lace edged handkerchiefs. I used to love looking at the boxes in which she kept patterns, transfers, threads, pieces of cloth, buttons and beads. I still have one of these boxes which my mother passed on to me; I cherish it as I’m sure my mother realised I would!
Over the years I have explored a variety of textile techniques through books and by attending night classes and workshops. I really enjoy these for the opportunity to work with textiles and gain new skills but also for the people I’ve met and the experiences and ideas shared.
I Studied City & Guilds Level 3 Embroidery, at Missenden Abbey with Janet Edmonds. It was a fantastic opportunity to really gain skills and confidence with a great tutor and supportive co-students. I first completing the certificate and more recently (July 2009) the diploma for which I was awarded a ‘Highly Commended’.
I am current doing an advanced textile workshop at the city Lit in London. We have a wonderful range of textile artist who tutor different days. It is really helping me to find my bearings; I still feel I have a lot to learn and do!
I love working to themes, exploring a range of ideas and seeing the different ways that other people have developed their ideas. So the journey begins.