I have worked as a dressmaker/tailor for many years, starting in theatre & costume, but for the last 20 years working mainly in the bridal and special occasion wear. I have kept my involvement in costume through maintaining the replica dress-up collection at the Fashion Museum and working with the education department at the Roman Baths in Bath. I also make for Zenith youth theatre group.
Mary is a systems/electronics engineer, working in the Aerospace industry, and has spent many years designing aircraft fuel systems. She is interested primarily in Medieval and Tudor costume, and is involved in Medieval re-enactment, where she makes costume for both herself and her husband. She is also a keen embroiderer and maker of modern clothing for herself. She can often be found at WECS events, sitting in the corner knitting whilst listening to the talks.
I’ve always been interested in textiles and costume and started making my own clothes while still at Junior School. Although I have never worked in the fashion industry I still do make clothes and furnishings, do embroidery, knitting and crochet, and have been an enthusiastic lacemaker for many years, particularly Flemish laces.
I've always been fascinated about fashion and textiles and have vivid memories of the outfits Mum made for me, especially the lime green flares and navy blue cape. After college in the late 80s I was an assistant to several small independent designers. I also love museums and heritage, spending the last 20-odd years working at some wonderful places.
Having begun my working life as an industrial chemist, I became interested in dyes and synthetic fibres working for Courtaulds. After several career changes, I am applying the knowledge gained in that industry to my most recent career as an archaeologist. I am interested in the production of textiles of all kinds including the application of dyes and special finishes, and the recovery and analysis of textiles from archaeological contexts. I have an unhealthy fascination for water mills, especially if they are associated with spinning, weaving or fulling.
