Tell us a little about what you make?
I design and create appliqué pictures with a Welsh family theme. Each piece is created from small pieces of fabric, hand stitched in place and embellished with embroidered daffodils for detail.
What inspires you and where do you find that inspiration?
The pictures are inspired by the traditional costume of Wales and draw on Welsh traditions. Many of the pictures include words from Welsh hymns such as ‘Calon Lân’, poems or sayings which evoke memories for many.
Tell us about your favourite medium.
There is something very therapeutic about using pencil on paper and having the freedom to create anything that comes to mind. Each stage of the process has its appeal though. Curling up on the sofa of an evening to stitch a piece and see it come to life is definitely one of my favourite things in life.
What are your favourite and least favourite parts of being an artist or maker?
I think connecting with customers has become one of my favourite parts, particularly those who have commissioned work for sentimental reasons. I have created pieces from treasured fabric taken from vintage shawls and dresses and created family scenes which evoke memories for several generations of their family.
What does being a member of the Ceredigion Art and Craft Trail mean to you?
The support I receive from the other members is invaluable. Having such a strong network of talented and experienced artists to work with, being able to share ideas and gain advice has really helped me develop my business. Being a member also provides a platform to promote my business that I would not otherwise be able to achieve.
How do you manage a work-life balance as an artist/maker?
It’s never easy as I work full time and so I tend to create pieces on a Sunday and stitch them during the evenings. There is never enough time for the admin and promotion side of things but I love a good ‘to do’ list.
What are you working on at the moment?
I’m designing some new pieces at the moment which will include a little more background colour and some new poems. There are never enough hours in the day but I hope to have a new collection soon.
How do you know when your work is finished?
My designs are stitched onto a cream background with the aim of creating clean lines, using the pattern within the textile for interest and embellishing the finished piece with small hand-stitched daffodils. The temptation would be to add more and more daffodils as the yellow lifts the piece however it’s important to stop before it gets too busy and cluttered so I guess instinct is the answer to your question.
What is the biggest challenge of being an artist/maker?
Time management, admin and being organised is by far the most challenging aspect.
What advice would you give to new artists or makers at the start of their creative journey?
Do what you enjoy. If you don’t enjoy the process then you are unlikely to get any satisfaction from the finished piece. Create what gives you pleasure so that it doesn’t become a chore.
