Susan Bradshaw*
Susan Bradshaw | Textiles | Devon
Susan has developed her craft skills of art lace and embroidery since the 1980's, by attending adult education classes, local and national textile groups, since graduating from art college studying three-dimensional design.
Textile craft has been a creative activity alongside her 45-year career in the heritage sector. Now as a professional maker she can challenge and develop her designs and practice to the full. She uses a ball point needle to make her lace. Using 'buttonhole’ lace stitches (also known as raised embroidery) she forms the patterns that create the intricacies of the lace stitches. She has recently returned to making bobbin lace, with Honiton Lace being her first experience of lacemaking. Combining lace techniques is always an adventure for Susan.
Lacemaking is an endangered craft and as a member of the Westhope Lace Group helps her to promote and encourage makers. Susan regularly organises local workshops, as well as take part in art retreats.
She aims to use natural threads and fabric that have been part of her stash rather than buying new. Reusing fabrics, such as cotton sheets and using natural dyes is also part of her practice. She has signed the Green Maker Initiative (GMI) pledge.