Tell me what inspires your work and sparks your imagination. Where do you turn for inspiration?
The wallflowers were inspired by a trip to the Eden project. I love the modern feel of the botanical gardens and spent a couple of days testing out my photography skills and sketching. I went in late summer and the dahlia and chrysanthemum flowers were in full bloom. They were so beautiful. Because I make a real effort as a British designer to get everything made in Britain, I thought it was only right to keep the UK countryside as my inspiration – you can see this with my most recent print collection. I turned to the British countryside, especially hedgerows. The Bradbury print looks at the negative spaces in blackberry bushes and my new bird family specifically looks at British songbirds.
What do you enjoy most about the design process?
The process of designing takes you on your own personal journey. When I start, I have an idea of where I want the design to go, but the drawings and ideas take me on their own path. Often I end up with a design that’s completely different.
What do you enjoy most about running your own business?
There are many pros and cons. I love being my own boss and the day-to-day challenges this presents. I never get bored and get a real sense of achievement when a new shop orders or a commission comes in. At the moment I’m really excited about some robins I’m bringing out for Christmas and can’t wait to show them at Top Drawer [the UK’s leading event for design-led gifts, lifestyle and fashion accessories].