Warp and Weft

                 ‘Warp and Weft’ was a recommended book to aid me in understanding weaving more. Throughout the book I came across work from ‘Dashing Tweeds’ and ‘Wallace & Sewell’. It was really interesting to read about them away from the internet because it gave me a better understanding of who they are and how they work in their teams.

Dashing Tweeds

                 I had briefly heard about Dashing Tweeds incorporating technology and traditionalism within their weaving; but had never found anything more in depth. When visiting Kirsty McDougall in her studio the focus was much more on high end couture which although was extremely interesting and amazing to hear about, I am also interested in where it all began and what the foundation was that built up this company. 

              Within reading about the origin of McDougall and Guy Hill, I also learnt that “Tweed was made as the origin material for sportswear”. As a sportsman myself I find linking the two things I spend most of my time on, highly fascinating; as it creates an opportunity for me to potentially combine them in an intriguing way.  A beguiling factor, for me, about combining their work of light and functional tweed is how hidden the ‘light’ side of the work is. In different lighting it gives the garments two completely different personalities which continually carrying off a very suave appearance.  (McDougall, 2012)

 Wallace & Sewell

                What I discovered about Harriett Wallace-Jones and Emma Sewell from this book was how much they still try to challenge themselves with their work. They clearly have a distinct style but still relish the opportunity to work on an interesting project like designing seating for the London Underground/ Overground. Projects like these are an opportunity for them to problem solve in a way that is outside of their comfort zone; which is a skill I am very much still working on but will take inspiration from Wallace and Sewell as I move forward. 

 Hemmings, J. (2012) Warp and weft: Woven textiles in fashion, art and interiors. London: A & C Black Publishers.