Catherine Hirst

As a little girl, I was taught to crochet by my grandmother. I quickly added knitting and embroidery to my repertoire and I have been hand-making clothing, accessories and gifts ever since.

My education in Art at the University of Pennsylvania informs my original designs. I always have half a dozen projects on the go, because I get so excited to try a new pattern or design idea. In London, I am inspired by so many things: from the skirt of a woman who passes me on the street, to the architecture of the old buildings.

In my late teens, all the patterns and designs I could get my hands on were outmoded and stuffy. So I began designing my own. And then came the contemporary craft scene: millions of people out there making craft hip, modern and relevant again.

Teaching these skills gives me enormous pleasure; I am sharing something that my students will keep for the rest of their lives. I especially love teaching young people, watching their eyes light up as they master every new trick, every fresh idea.

It is quite magical to create beautiful clothes with a ball of yarn and couple of sticks! I have now spent more than a decade sharing these skills and learning new ones. I look forward to working with you.