I am a Knitwear Design Graduate. Previously I studied (BA Hons) Fashion Knitwear and Knitted Textiles SW at Nottingham Trent University. During this time I have developed not only my design skills but also my understanding of commercial markets and trends. My graduate collection was sponsored by UPW Hong Kong, and consequently featured in Drapers Magazine as a designer to watch. I am a collaborative worker with the ability to work to a brief, or to manage my time well and work independently. Following on from winning the Fashanne Knitwear Award I have undertaken a placement in Design & NPD at John Smedley. During this time I gained vital experience within the knitwear industry and developed my own design skills. Previously I completed a 9 month placement at Bobble Ltd, where I sold swatches to brands such as DKNY & White Stuff.
Creating knitted swatches in response to Trend/Mood boards, and briefs from studio and clients. Using both machine and hand processes; including Standard gauge Domestic machine, hand knit, & crochet (also incorporating hand embroidery and surface embellishment).
Internship in Design & NPD covering a variety of duties including; garment specification & updating tech packs, researching & collating trend/mood boards, developing colour palettes, preparing neck cuts, updating trims, buttons & zips archive. Shadowing the NPD department, gaining an understanding of size grading, CAD technology, and size trial process. Working within the design team on the AW23 & SS23 collection. Collated a Comp. Shop report for the buying department. Whilst also gaining experience within the factory, understanding the production process involved in knitwear.
Worked in collaboration to create 3 knitted pieces to fit within their MA Collection. Following a set brief by designer, responding to vintage garments and photos for stitch design. Then designed and produced a hand-knitted cardigan, crochet vest, and lace vest.
Studio Internship covering a variety of duties including; researching & collating trend/mood boards, knitted swatch design & development, swatch finishing & hand-sewing, preparing the collection for buyers meetings, updating and organising studio social media & website, and keeping the studio organised and tidy. Sold swatches to brands such as DKNY, White Stuff, TJMaxx, Express, & Crew Clothing.