The Cutting (& Stitching) Edge - Justine Aldersey-Williams

Justine Aldersey-Williams is a surface pattern and textile designer from the UK.

“I have developed an eco-textile practice involving dyeing silk with wild flowers, roots and bark using shibori resist techniques, then letting the patterns inspire my philosophical graffiti which is embroidered by hand onto scarves. I am inspired by being outside and never grew out of my child-like wonder and appreciation for nature. I love the immediacy of the computerised world but recognise my need to balance it with some slow, organic, intuitive creativity.

“I like the interaction that takes place when using natural materials such as herbal dyes and ethically sourced fabrics. I feel they bring a provenance and wisdom to the creative process which often surprises and challenges me to relinquish my control.

“This way of working balances my other life as a freelance digital surface pattern designer and whilst I love the immediate thrill of digital design, there is a wise, sustainable provenance to my latest work which honours the slow pleasure of making by hand.

“I embroider poems that bubble into my consciousness in the early hours of the morning as a result (I think) of yoga and meditation. I like the idea that glimpses of text on a scarf might intrigue or inspire the viewer.

“I hope to contribute towards the introduction of sustainable textile production in the U.K. by offering others tuition in eco-textiles.”

I am always pleased to hear from new designers and graduates who are exploring textile spaces and ideas. The contrast between Justine’s dyed work and her digital designs show a breadth of idea and it’ll be interesting to watch the concepts evolve even further.

Visit Justine’s website to enjoy more of her work and check out her blog for process shots – she’s trying all manner of techniques!

Justine is one of many new talents exhibiting at New Designers in London from 26th – 29th on stand CAA20. New Designers is a must-see showcase of graduate work across a range of media, and is a fantastic resource for ideas and inspiration.

This video gives you a flavour of what’s there. For more information visit the New Designers website.