I live with my husband, Rob in our little patch of paradise, in a small village, by the sea, on the South coast of England, along with our Son, Rowan and our new Labrador puppy called ‘Wilson’. I have a lovely home studio, which is my permanent ‘ happy space’!
My passion for free-hand embroidery is as strong as it was 30 years ago. I graduated in 1990 from Loughborough College of Art and Design where I completed a Fashion/Textiles degree, specialising in fee- hand embroidery.
I have made my living on my sewing machine ever since, by working freelance in many textiles industries. These have included Wedding dresses, men’s wear design, children and woman’s wear. I designed and produced embroideries that were then sold to more commercial/ mass markets. Along with some embroidered cushions and very large map of the Uk for DFS sofa’s commercial campaign. In more recent years, my workshops and selling my homewares are now my focus. I teach large textile groups both here and Ireland and Scotland and also run frequent workshops from my home studio. I really enjoy the teaching aspect of my work. Seeing my studio full of that wonderful creative ‘buzz’ and hearing all the sewing machines, meeting all you enthusiastic students, is such a joy.
Joining the Sussex Guild was a really positive step forward. This enables designers, like myself to have regular opportunities, in the form of a gallery space and regular shows, to sell work and also to take workshop bookings.I also sell on NOTHS (not on the high street) and Etsy, along with numerous shows, throughout the year.If I am not doing a show, I am either teaching, designing, making, walking my dog or playing Netball!I do think I have the best job in the world!
Thank you for taking the time to read my ‘blurb’!
Lara
