I started using denim in 1991 after being given a pair of old jeans.  I loved its texture and flexibility.  I spent hours and hours experimenting with different weights and processes, including colour discharging, embroidery, applique, dyeing techniques and applying paint.  Eventually I found methods that suited my style and continued down that road.  

From 1991 to present I have sold over 800 unique waistcoats.  Most of them denim but many created from my fabric collection.  In the near future I hope to create a slide show detailing the progression of my style.  

During this time I have undertaken numerous waistcoat commissions including the following themes:  bottles of beer, fish, birds, animals, divers, dogs, horses, music, dancers, monogrammed, chess sets, bees, dragonflies, hares, just a few that I can think of at the time of typing.   Please see photo albums.

I have created waistcoats for all sizes, men and women plus many unisex.   The actual styles have not changed much over the years.   I have a few patterns that I know work.  These styles are simple, without darts or front fastenings.  Sometimes I add pockets.  The emphasis has always been the artwork in the garment.   Over the years I have experimented with made to measure garments.  Pattern cutting in an art in itself and prefer to leave that to the experts.   Ask to try one of my toiles or compare the measurements given to a garment you already wear.

Most my garments are created using 100% cotton.  Waistcoats are always lined with cotton fabric.   The exception being alternative beautiful fabrics used in some patchwork waistcoats.

In 2010 I was asked by VOGUE magazine to create a small vintage fabric waistcoat for a photo shoot. I totally enjoyed the creative process of working with patchwork again . It was fantastic to re-visit fabrics carefully hidden in boxes. All sorts of memories came flooding back as I chose fabric combinations to create Waistcoat 134. I could not wait to start sewing and worked almost without a break until the waistcoat was complete. The result worked perfectly. Please watch this space for my new "Collection of Vintage Patchwork Waistcoats".

Over the years my work has been sold consistently by Brigid Foley - Paddons Row Tavistock.    During the early 1990's  I sold at the Higher Street Gallery - Dartmouth, and The Seymour Gallery in Totnes, and with The Devon Rural Skills Trust at Cockington Court (where I had a studio). 

I saw the potential of the internet in the late 1990's and from then on most my work has been sold online and from recommendation.   

August 2011 - Now preparing for Devon Open Studios - 3 to 19 September 2011

I am hoping to open my studio to the public on at least one day a month. I am always happy to show my waistcoats and other work if you phone for a mutually convenient time.

Always happy to  answer your questions and discuss any ideas.

Thank you for reading these words.