Back in November, my journey took me across Powys to seek out another creative to chat to, this time it was the lovely Jules Hogan, a knitwear designer based on the Welsh borders.
As a long-time admirer of her work, I have always been captivated by the simplicity and timeless aesthetic Jules achieves in her beautiful collections.
Her designs exemplify a timeless quality enriched by the subtle colours she employs. Jules draws inspiration from the local landscape, Welsh Sunsets, tradition, sea views, striping, and patchwork. Her knitwear seamlessly blends functionality with beauty. Jules’ unwavering commitment to quality shines through in her choice of materials; the fabrics she selects are sustainably sourced and endowed with a luxurious softness.
Jules crafts knitwear that seamlessly blends functionality with beauty. Her unwavering commitment to quality shines through in her choice of materials; the fabrics she selects are sustainably sourced and endowed with a luxurious softness.
Jules Hogan’s journey began in 2010 with a single domestic knitting machine and a small quantity of yarn, serving as a counterbalance to her fast-paced full-time design job. Today, she collaborates with artisan knitters in Scotland and the Lake District, sharing a passion for creating well-made, premium hand-finished knitwear that carries a personal touch.
Every piece is meticulously crafted, from the initial sketches to the final production stage. Jules’s design process often begins with sketching inspirations drawn from nature, which she skillfully translates into vivid patterns and textures. This harmonious blend of inspiration and technique results in textiles that tell a story rooted in the richness of the environment.
Jules's studio is a sanctuary of tranquility and calm—she is also training to be a Reiki practitioner and the positive energy in her workspace is palpable. I aimed to capture the essence of Jules and her creative environment through these photographs.
A Commitment to Sustainability
In today’s world, sustainability has evolved from a trend to an essential principle. Jules Hogan fully embraces this philosophy by ensuring her materials and processes are as eco-friendly as possible. By focusing on sustainable practices and sourcing local materials, she plays a vital part in reducing the carbon footprint while supporting local artisans and craftspeople.
Jules Hogan's website features a diverse range of textiles, including capes, gloves, hats, and hot water bottle covers. Each collection is a reflection of different themes or influences, catering to a variety of tastes, whether you're in search of bold patterns or subtle hues.
Beyond her creations, Jules actively engages with her community of followers and customers. Through blogs and social media, she shares insights into her creative process, fostering personal connections with her audience. This interaction not only cultivates a sense of community but also sparks conversations about art, design, and sustainable living.
Jules Hogan stands as a testament to the fusion of creativity and conscientiousness in design. Her textiles offer not only beauty and functionality but also embody a deep connection to nature and sustainability. If you’re looking to infuse a touch of artistry into your wardrobe or home, exploring Jules Hogan’s collection may just inspire you too.
Visit Jules Hogan to discover her full range of textiles. Follow her on instagram @juleshoganknitwear
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