I've made things from beads, thread and fabric for as long as I can remember. School holidays were spent at my grandmother's house
where I would spend hours sewing and gluing together whatever I could find in her collection of lace, ribbons, buttons and other treasures.
Later, a degree course in graphic design allowed me to explore the relationships between colours, shapes and textures and I find that
beadwork is a wonderful medium for bringing all these elements together.
I find ideas for beadwork all around me, in
architectural details, the arts, and nature. I love creating a three dimensional shape with beads, or capturing a mood inspired
by mythology or the changing seasons. Beads are combined with hand dyed threads and silk ribbons in many of my designs,
creating garlands that resemble flowers and foliage. I also like to embroider with beads, building up richly textured surfaces.
My sketchbook is an important tool and a constant source of inspiration. The challenge of transforming a drawing or watercolour sketch
into a piece of wearable art is a beady puzzle that I find endlessly fascinating.
I also write beading patterns, and have contributed
to 'Creative Beads and Jewellery' magazine. I believe beadwork to be one of the most relaxing, meditative and therapeutic crafts and
enjoy inspiring others to express their own creativity.
