My study into sustainability of fabrics and dyes continues. Because something is “natural” it is not necessarily the best for the planet and I try to bear this in mind when creating work. A stitcher by inclination, my interest in dyes continues while trying to get clear in my mind how best to avoid damage to the environment.

I up-cycle as many fabrics as possible (cotton and linen bed sheets, tablecloths etc), hand dyeing them and working into them with stitch. Old jeans have been transformed into artists’ aprons, cushions and any number of useful items. I also seek out sustainable new fabrics to dye and screen print for scarves – my current favourite being banana fabric.

Recently, I have been inspired by our very local chalk streams which support a diversity of plants, fish and invertebrates. Research generally involves a visit to a pub alongside these streams to sketch and take photos. I am enjoying this new body of work.