We sat down with English Paper Piecing author, Jenny Jackson to talk all about her book and her journey as a designer, here’s what she had to say…
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
Hiya I’m Jenny, I am an English Paper Piecing Designer based in a village just outside of Brighton. I have been sewing for many years and have a degree in Fashion and Textile Design with Business Studies. I live with my 11 year old son Dylan who is just the best thing since sliced bread. I run a small business called Hashtagsew where I sell my patterns, paper pieces, my favourite notions and fabric. I am also a designer and demonstrator on Sewing Street TV.
Tell us a bit about your new book?
My new book is full of bright and modern designs. All projects are English paper pieced. I decided to design homeware projects for the book, because there is nothing better than decorating your home with your own makes! I have a love for geometric shapes so you will find the projects in the book are very much influenced by this love.
How do you think you reached this point in your craft?
I think that I have reached this point in my craft by constantly designing and getting a feel of what people are looking for. Working on Sewing Quarter and now Sewing Street has also given me the chance to show so many people my love for English Paper Piecing. The support of my lovely customers keeps me wanting to design new projects all the time.
What is the most challenging thing about being a designer/artist?
Finding the time to make all the ideas that I constantly have flying around inside my head. I often find myself wishing for at least another six hours added into each day
What makes up for the challenges?
When I start a new project that has been in my head for a while and see it developing gets me so excited, and when I get lovely feed back on my designs it makes the late nights so worth it.
What advice would you give to your beginner self?
Don’t be afraid to just go for it and believe in yourself.
Which project would you recommend from your book for a beginner to try?
I would recommend either It’s All About The Hexies or Star For A Star Mug Rug as they are both small simple projects.
In one word, how would you describe your book?
Colourful!
Find out more about Jenny’s book here on Bookmarked Hub.
