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Carol Coleman
Carol Coleman is an artist specialising in textile jewellery and wearable art. She has recently published her first book, Fibredancing Book I: Brooches, Bracelets, Rings and Things, which shows readers how to begin making textile jewellery based on her designs. I spoke to Carol to find out more about her work.
What are you working on at the moment?
I always have a number of things on the go at the same time. I am developing several pieces to exhibit with Diverse Threads under the general theme of 'Elements' this year. I am always making and experimenting with more jewellery and wearable designs. I also spent a very enjoyable weekend on one of Richard Box's courses last month learning to use my sewing machine in a more painterly way and I hope to find time to make some progress with that while it is still fresh in my mind. As soon as I have a decent gap in my commitments I will start to make the samples I need to include in my second book Fibredancing: Set in Stone, as the text is already in progress.
What pieces of equipment are essential to your work?
A reliable, controllable sewing machine with the necessary attachments, lots and lots of thread and dissolving film. I find I need more and more storage to keep all my treasures and fabric stash on view and available. I also have a fully adjustable office chair to enable me to work at the correct height with my machine. I do all of my own photography, so I have a good digital camera and a couple of computers with printers.
Where do your inspirations come from?
I have always been captivated by rocks, stones, fossils, shells, etc. and most of my individual jewellery pieces are designed around individual stones. I am particularly attracted to amber as it is so light in weight that it can be used in profusion. Coming from another direction, sometimes while experimenting in a relaxed way with a particular technique, the results are very pleasing and will become the inspiration for something new.
What advice would you give to people who are interested in beginning the craft?
You will need a sewing machine that can drop the feed teeth and has a swing needle (zig-zag) that can be smoothly controlled. It does not have to be an expensive or complicated model. Find a needlecraft or embroidery group that offers practical guidance such as workshops or tuition near you that you can attend regularly. Search out some books that give step by step instructions so you can follow them at home. Some Colleges, such as Alston hall in Lancashire, have excellent courses that are aimed at different skill levels. The internet is also a good resource, as well as magazines such as Stitch, Classic Stitches, Flair, Sewing World, etc. Once the basics are understood, a little practise leads on to competence and from there the world is your mollusc!
You can view more examples of Carol’s work in her showcase on The Textile Directory website by clicking here. Or to buy Carol’s book please click here.
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