Business name: Karen Stewart Textiles
I have been designing and creating with textiles for all of my adult life, but in 2015 I discovered the ancient art of wet felting and was instantly captivated by its incredible versatility and malleability. Since then I have taken many in-person and online workshops from UK and international feltmakers to continually develop my work.I used to create predominantly bags and wearables but more recently have moved into the field of textural artwork both realistic and abstract. The main focus for all of my work is texture and colour. The changing light and colours of the seasons are a constant source of inspiration for me as are the textures and details in nature and natural elements. Woodlands and seascapes are particularly dear to me and are frequent subjects of my work. I like to incorporate a wide variety of natural materials into the wool, from silk fibres and fabrics to plant fibres, wool locks and yarns to create a richly textured surface. I use a range of felting techniques to manipulate the wool into natural forms and shapes. Shibori techniques are my current passion.Based in rural Leicestershire, UK. I teach wet felting to small groups.
