I am an original designer and pattern cutter, whose approach is based upon research, analysis and the evaluation of data and ideas. I am enthralled by the whole creative process, from inception to completion, and find that designing, pattern cutting and grading fulfill both my creative and mathematical interests. The evolution of a well-made and beautiful garment, from simple sketch to finished product, is something I love to be part of. This, of course, is not without its pitfalls and problems; I enjoy tackling these with calm logic and a sense of humour in adversity.

I enjoy working as part of a team but, when necessary, have leadership qualities, which I have used in community work. My computer skills have served me well both in design and research, as well as in the development of my own website.

I have excellent time management skills, which help me to be very professional in all I do. I enjoy organising my time effectively - this helps me to be independent and work without constant supervision.

Work:

KnitAlert, New York.  2002 - 2004
I worked freelance as Chief Fashion Illustrator for a trend magazine company. I produced illustrations for two different editions, KnitAlert and CircularLogic.

Laura Ashley.  July 2002 - Oct 2005

I was employed as a Resident Visual Merchandiser.  I travelled around to different Laura Ashley shops and merchandised their products to company standards in both garment and home sections.  I also advised and assisted each shop on room set layout, dressing and implementation.  

The Great British Collection / Simon Lucas (Executive Games). July 2001 - July 2002 
I was employed as designer and webmaster of The Great British Collection website and the Bridge Cloths Direct website.  I was also in charge of orders taken through these sites.  The second part of my job was producing handmade card-table cloths.  I designed the new range of cloths that have recently been added to the full collection.

The Wedding Vault / Truly Scrumptious. April 2000 - July 2001
I was employed as Manager of Bridal Gown Production. My main role involved the design and production of wedding gowns and the management of a team of employees. I also dealt with customers in the shop and answered the phones as necessary.

Achievements:

I have my own websites promoting my fashion, illustration and jewellery work.  I designed and produced these myself. 

I design and make my own range of jewellery that I sell online and at craft fairs.  I specialise in fantasy inspired costume jewellery.

I appeared on Granada Breeze, a live television program.  I was the fashion 'expert' giving advice about revamping old garments.

I was interviewed by Cambridge Varsity Newspaper. I appeared in an article about the struggles fashion graduates face after they leave college. The article also featured photographs of my work.

For the last eight years, I have been designing and making garments for clients.  In recent years I have specialised in bridal / evening bodices.  I go through the whole process of the client coming to me with an idea, then I design the garment for them.  I then make the pattern, toile the garment to make sure of the fit, and then produce the garment in the chosen fabric.