I’m Carolyn Trafford, a designer maker based in Leek, in the Staffordshire Moorlands and my work is heavily inspired by this area and other gorgeous places in the UK. I have stitched virtually all my life, having learned basic embroidery from my Mum whilst still at primary school. Photography took over my life in my 20s and has been a focus of my work since then. I have recently returned to stitch as part of my degree course, graduating in 2019.
My Work
My work is predominantly textile based using a range of techniques such as free motion embroidery, hand embroidery, printing techniques, dying and appliqué. There are so many different textures and patterns achievable with textiles making a more versatile medium than paint.
I also make fine silver jewellery using pure silver. I use the textures and patterns captured in my photographs as the basis for many of the designs. Other pieces me be imprints of nature, examples are the replica leaves formed on real leaves or moulds taken from shells, both collected on my nature walks. The leaves burn away during the firing process making each one unique – just as nature intended.
With a camera always to hand, everything I create or design is inspired by my photography.
How to Buy My Work
Before COVID I sold my work through local artisan markets, and open studio events. At the moment my greetings cards, jewellery and gift items sell through my online shop. My current health has prevented me from returning to markets, but I will be back.
I offer a simple click and collect service via my Facebook page – Carolyn Trafford Art and Instagram pages.
I am open to doing commissions too. I completed a commission recently for someone whose mum used to live locally and has relocated to Spain. She wanted a special piece of jewellery to remind her mum of her childhood home near Cheddleton Heath. I really loved wandering the heath to find exactly the right Blackberry leaf for her. She loved the result. Please contact me via email me at carolyntrafford@gmail.com to find out more.
My Studio
I dream of working from a studio in my garden; however, circumstances dictate that I work between my dining room and my kitchen. I therefore work with a minimal amount of tools. Fortunately, my silver work requires small detailing tools not lump hammers!
For stitching, I print collographs onto fabric using a fold up craft press, and have a domestic sewing machine free motion embroidery and a range of hoops for hand embroidery. Fabrics, wool, embroidery silks, inks are all stashed in whatever cupboard I can find space.
My one luxury item is a 4-shaft tabletop loom that I was gifted. It folds flat, is still quite chunky to store and takes up a small dining room table when in use. I want to spend more time weaving, but have so many other projects to finish.