I have a couple of tables; one for pattern drafting, one for sewing. Empty jam jars are filled with bobbins, pins. Old chocolate and biscuit tins full to the brim with buttons. String and pegs create a washing line to hang materials of inspiration from. Images adorn the walls from different ethnic cultures and images from era gone by, historical costume and tear outs from fashion magazines.

I work from my studio full time using a range of different hand sewing techniques and pattern drafting skills. I love to drape fabric round the mannequin creating new forms and silhouettes. My studio is stacked full of Harris Tweed fabrics and a collection of treasures from around the globe.I collect vintage brooches, feathers and buttons to create new pieces to add to my jackets. A collection of shoes, socks for shoots are kept in boxes.

I receive packages through the post from my college Alison Macleod. She works on the Isle of Lewis producing handmade textiles. Her pieces bring new inspiration to the studio. I often have pictures on the wall by twin sister who is an artist which inspires new cloth combinations.

//////////

‘Where I Make’ invites readers behind the scenes of artists from many disciplines to share photographs and a little insight about where they create their masterpieces. See more from the series here.