Gemma Sangwine
I originally trained as a weaver, studying Textiles and Fashion at Winchester School of Art. After graduating I spent some time in Peru working as a designer for a independent woven accessories label. On my return to the UK I set up my mother’s old sewing machine at the kitchen table and resolved to make what I could with what I had to hand – cutting up vintage fabrics and sample swatches to make handbags which I sold on a weekly market stall at Covent Garden, London.
Since then I have juggled my creative practice alongside working part time in various roles, including Textile Conservation and in a Vintage Clothing Boutique. Along the way I have trained in traditional and couture millinery, studying with and working for Denise Innes at The British School of Millinery.
I am now based in South Ayrshire and create a range of hats and hair accessories, with an emphasis on recycling and reusing materials as much as possible. My designs are mostly materials led, collecting up what I find and seeing what works together. This process often still involves taking over the kitchen table!
My pieces have featured in film and tv, including on Lady Gabby in season 3 of The Outlaws, and Pixie Lott as Mrs Cratchit in the film Christmas Karma.
Bespoke pieces made to order. Hat hire available.
I also offer workshops with a focus on sustainable fashion, visible mending and upcycling.