My creative textile work takes me in two directions, working as both a textile artist and accessories designer from my shared studio near the foot of the Malvern Hills.
My work as a textile artist involves creating handmade natural fibre papers which incorporate dried flowers, petals, leaves and ‘waste’ threads from sewing. These are cut and sewn to make cards and larger pieces of artwork, often embellished using free motion embroidery techniques and hand stitching. More recently my work has included print-based elements and a journey into using natural dyeing techniques on a variety of fabrics. I am always experimenting with fabrics and techniques, enjoying the free element of play rather than following any specific technique too closely! I like to bring this element of fun and exploration to my workshops where I invite you to be experimental and base your workshop piece on favourite colours rather than be too structured. I offer a variety of textile workshops from the studio in textile paper making, free motion embroidery & more.
My other love of sewing and fabrics led me to develop a range of whimsical, boho and eco accessories for children, family and home. I was constantly inspired whilst raising my three boys who were always daydreaming, making up stories and requesting various props to enhance their creative play adventures! This led to many a mask or accessory being sewn and I still have the original fabric crowns I first made for each of my boys. I have a passion for designing accessories that encourage such creative play and an ongoing desire to make beautiful things as sustainably as possible, to re-use things and to find alternatives to mass produced and single use items. My designs and makes are under my brand 'Delilah And the Moon'.
I am a natural collector of things - things that are old, things that hold memories, things that are treasures from walks. My home is host to many pots of collections. There are so many stories attached to each object or collection and I find this true of fabric too. When making accessories for children I am regulated by safety standards that require me to use new fabrics but in my careful choice of fabrics I enjoy making what I hope are keepsakes and family hand-me-downs. Our strongest memories so often come from everyday 'normal' things but by choosing lovely fabric to work with I hope these things become treasured memories in time. My textile artwork allows me to use vintage and pre-loved fabrics which in itself is the inspiration for different pieces and creations.
Throughout Worcestershire Open Studios you’ll be able to see me at work demonstrating natural fibre paper making, free motion embroidery techniques and Kantha slow stitch pieces. The studio has a gift shop area that you are welcome to browse and purchase from.