Back in November, my journey took me across Powys to seek out another creative to chat with. This time, I had the pleasure of meeting 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 colors she employs.
Inspiration from Nature
Jules draws inspiration from the local landscape, Welsh sunsets, traditions, 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 perfectly balances functionality and beauty. Each piece is meticulously crafted, from the initial sketches to the final production stage. Her design process often begins with sketching inspirations drawn from nature and translates them into vivid patterns and textures.
This harmonious blend of inspiration and technique results in textiles that tell a unique story rooted in the richness of the environment.
A Journey of Passion and Growth
Jules Hogan’s journey began in 2010 with a single domestic knitting machine and a small quantity of yarn. This served as a counterbalance to her fast-paced full-time design job. Over time, Jules has grown her brand tremendously. 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 she produces showcases her dedication to craftsmanship and her understanding of materials.
The Essence of Jules' Studio
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. In my visit, I aimed to capture the essence of Jules and her creative environment through 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 that her materials and processes are as eco-friendly as possible. By focusing on sustainable practices and sourcing local materials, she plays a vital role 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 reflects different themes or influences, catering to a variety of tastes. Whether you're in search of bold patterns or subtle hues, there's something for everyone.
Engaging with Her Community
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. This interaction fosters personal connections with her audience. It cultivates a sense of community and sparks conversations about art, design, and sustainable living.
Conclusion: Embracing Creativity and Consciousness
Jules Hogan stands as a testament to the fusion of creativity and conscientiousness in design. Her textiles offer beauty, functionality, and 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.
Visit Jules Hogan to discover her full range of textiles. Follow her on Instagram @juleshoganknitwear.
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