Knit Today

How did you become interested in crafts?
I was brought up in a crafty family. My mum and aunts were very creative and into lots of different crafts, so I think it’s in the genes – my two daughters are both creative too. I trained in dress and design, then did an advanced course in embroidery and textiles, and also trained as a design and technology teacher, so I’m equally at home using wood and wire!

Do you have a favourite craft?
As a family, we tend not to stick to one craft and are always on the look out for new things to do. I did feel at times I was jack-of-all-trades and master of none, but in recent years, I’ve really got into beading. I was asked to write a beading book for publishers David and Charles in 2003, and since then have written at least one beading book a year. While working on The Beader’s Bible (2008), I did a lot of research on knitting and crocheting with beads and have been teaching knitting with beads and wire at the Knitting and Stitching Show workshops.

Who are your craft heroes?
I was lucky to have an inspirational editorial director, Ljiliana Baird, early on in my book writing career. She really knew how to get the best out of me – better than any tutor I had at art college. I also admire anyone who can mix colours really well. I tend to go for safe, harmonious selections, but every time I go to Bead Crazy in Perth, the owner, Maxine, is wearing another stunning necklace – the colours just zing. I come away inspired and thinking “Must try harder”!

What inspires you to create new designs?
This is where I feel I should say something like “walking on the beach and gathering seaweed and shells,” but in reality I do a lot of research, looking at other designers’ work in books and magazines and also searching the internet for current and future trends. I like to go to the trade shows to see what colours and styles are coming in. I’ve subscribed to Marie Claire Idees for many years and love seeing what can be adapted for different crafts.

Do you have time to craft for yourself?
Now that my work is my hobby, I really only do craft work that’s been commissioned. Perhaps that’s why I love going to the knitting club at Di Gilpin’s shop in St Andrews – it’s the first time in years that I’ve been doing something for myself. It’s great fun, and I’m learning all the time from Di and the others.

Do you have any tips for fellow crafters?
It’s essential to have some sort of space that you can call your own – if not to work in, at least to store craft materials. When I’m designing, everything comes out and I find it’s easier to create if you have plenty of material to choose from, whether it’s wool, beads or paper. You can sort colours and textures much more easily if you have a wide selection, and that’s when you are most inspired.

Dorothy made this beaded mobile phone cover for Knit Today issue 31