Welcome to SewCottonCandy..

Vintage textiles, contemporary makes, sewing projects and drawing with stitch..

My blog is about my current textile projects, interesting fabric finds and ideas that inspire me.

I love vintage fabric, particularly prints from the 1950s to the 70s. I like to use them in my work, whether it's cushions and quilts or quirky fabric toys. I am always looking out for midcentury and Scandinavian graphics for ideas for simple and pleasing shapes and imagery.

I became interested in fabrics and clothing from other eras while working in a leading costume house and at The National Theatre's costume store. Having gone on to work as a freelance designer, I worked at a number of prestigious London Drama schools and became interested in working more in an educational environment.

I decided to train to teach 10 years ago to work in secondary schools, teaching a subject I am passionate about. So now, based in Brighton, I can mostly be found in the classroom with the challenge of encouraging teenagers to get interested in designing and making useful products with fabric!

As well as teaching I make sure to find time for my own creative projects, whether it be something to wear or bits to brighten up the home. 

I've always loved to draw and as a child I would spend hours sitting drawing fashion figures from my imagination. I still very much love drawing figures and clothing and over the last few years have experimented with 'drawing with stitch'. Building up surface textures, applying mixed media and combining machine embroidery are my current textiles interests.

I hope you enjoy my blog. I'd love to hear your feedback, so please do drop me a message.

Candy