Exhibition at 'Origins', the Crafts Council Fair 2006

My work has been concerned with the 3 dimensional manipulation of fabrics since setting up my label in 1995. During this 12-year period the focus has been on a handmade ethos. Mechanical processes intended for mass production have been explored and rejected, and the research has instead concentrated on techniques which can only be created by hand. This ensures that the fabric produced is unique, of the best possible quality, and ‘long life’ (Chapman). Since 1995 the research has been about continually improving and adjusting processes. The fabrics have undergone rigorous testing and redesigning following periods of reflection. This 2006 collection was unique, having previously concentrated on fabrics for fashion this new work considered larger scale pieces which had a different functionality focused towards interiors. Interior textiles are most usually woven or flat printed for reasons of durability, but this new collection attempted to use 3d print techniques and stitch. They were either individually printed with a special printing ink or hand embroidered, before they were passed through my unique shrinking process. Many designers who produce 3 dimensional textiles consciously steer away from issues of functionality because of its inherent problems, but as a designer recognised for wearable and functional fabrics, I subjected the fabrics to testing to sustain a performable textile. In 2006 this new collection of work was exhibited at ‘Origins’, a juried show championing the best of contemporary craft both nationally and internationally. Designer makers, curators, journalists and academics that are leaders in their field are amongst the selection committee. They are looking for work of an exceptional high standard and crafts people who demonstrate creativity and technical skill.