Meet the Maker: Meet Nichola

Nichola joined ReTweed’s training course last autumn. She was looking to regain confidence in her working abilities and social skills after being away from the workplace for a year. She completed her training, then volunteered and now works one day a week with us as our Volunteer Support Worker. She is also a member of our business incubator and developing her own creative business.

Nichola (right) with fellow business incubator participants and bagmakers extraordinaire Sarah (left) and Pauline (centre)

Tell us about working and volunteering at ReTweed

It’s so encouraging, happy and productive. I love the creative environment and the people that work and volunteer here. There is such a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere about the place.

As one of the first participants in ReTweed’s business incubator, what are you looking forward to?

Producing products that I love and that others will love too. I love the feeling of finding a handbag that I want to use every day and show off to everyone and I hope that I can create designs that will evoke that in other people.

Any favourite textile skills or techniques?

I love working with tweeds and tartans and really enjoyed the level 2 training where we learned to make ties, and freehand embroidery on the sewing machine with applique. I have learned to love embroidery and a selection of hand stitches which I never thought would happen, ever! I really enjoyed making the Tweed patchwork purses.

Where do you find inspiration?

I am inspired by lots of things, mainly plant and animal life. And I love arts and crafts designers like William Morris.

Tell us more about living in the Borders

I grew up in Eyemouth and recently returned here after 20 years away so it holds a special place in my heart. It really is unique. The high cliffs around the sandy bay with the bouncy grass on top. Walks round the harbour never fail to interest, its a working fishing port so always a lot going on. The beach… the Hurker Rocks… the Bantry with the best view in the Borders… the swans that return every year… there is nowhere quite like it!

 

This blog post was written by Melanie Thomson – ReTweed Marketing Volunteer


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