Justine Lee

My research into British wools started with knitting the wool from all 60+ British pure breed sheep, getting to know the unique characteristics of each breed. After identifying 12 breeds with particularly soft wool I now work with farmers developing fleece to yarn, designing styles to make the most of the natural characteristics of each breed. Using only natural colours, and making by hand, my aim is to create a range that is ethical with the lowest possible environmental impact.

Q&A

Artist Statement

My knitwear method of quilting on the domestic knitting machine was developed during my MA as a way to visually communicate my research in a quilt. I use different wools for the outer layers, usually a long wool for durability and a more spongy yarn, such as the downs wools for filling as these are better insulators. The pattern is made either by using a punch card or by hand needle selection, the fabric created is original and practical.

What craft do you work with?

Knitwear is my craft, with a background in knitwear design for the fashion industry I have experience in styling but my use of British wool and handmaking my own designs is a new development after my research into sustainable textiles.

What inspires you to work with this craft?

The infinite combinations of wools and the diversity of British sheep breeds keep my hands happy and the fact it is ethical and sustainable keeps my mind happy.

How do you start your creative process?

With the sheep.

How would you best describe your workspace and what tools could you not do without?

A small studio in the garden, a chunky domestic machine, and lots of hand-knitting needles.

Are there new techniques you would like to try?

Yes, always working on new techniques

What have you learnt or the best advice you have received that you would like to share with fellow crafters?

I would like to integrate woven wool with my knitted pieces.