Justine Ellis Designs - Screen Printing

Changing Careers can often be a brave and hard thing to do for anyone, but for Justine Ellis it was just the beginning. Find out more here in this interview below, Justine features in our book Inspired:London and we are excited to talk to her today about her journey into screen printing and design.

What is name and background behind your company?

Justine Ellis Designs

I have been screen printing for nearly 10 years, but I finally took the plunge and left my day job as a Special Needs Teacher about 3 years ago. Since then, I have been printing like mad and teaching others to do the same.

Where are you based?

I’m based in woody enclave between Crystal Palace & Dulwich.

How long have you been in business for?

For about 3 years.

What do you love most about living in London?

What’s not to love? I was born here and yet I still get that excited feeling when I see the glorious view as I cross the river by train.

Who or what inspires you?

I’m inspired by mid century art, architecture, design & textiles. Places I’ve been, places I imagine going. Colour, pattern & texture.

What advice would you give designers starting out?

Be supportive of your peers, share your knowledge and help each other out.

What is new for your company?

I’ve recently been making a range of hand printed lampshades, which are currently selling well.

You can pre-order your copy of Inspired:London  by Mary McDermott from We Make London
Follow the link to get your copy here http://www.wemakelondon.co.uk/pre-order-the-book.html

Sophie Long – Hand embroidery

'Sophie is proud to announce, she was one of the many embroiderers that worked on the Royal Wedding dress' We are delighted that Sophie is featured in Inspired:London a guide to handmade in London.

What is name and background behind your company?

 Sophie Long – Hand embroidery.

I graduated with distinction from the Royal School of Needlework in the summer of 2008. From the first day of trading I decided to focus on several key areas, dividing my time between teaching, designing unique and intricate embroidery kits, and carrying out an array of specialist commissions for private customers.

Where are you based?

I am based in London, and teach primarily in London, Surrey and the surrounding areas. I have also been fortunate enough to have taught large groups of students in San Francisco, Thailand and various other locations around the world.

How long have you been in business?

I started Sophie Long – Hand Embroidery following my graduation from the Royal School of Needlework in 2008.  I had 3 years previous experience in hand embroidery, textiles and design, and decided to fully focus on my business upon successful completion of my course. Once graduated, I was fully prepared to begin my career as a professional hand embroiderer.

What do you love most about living in London?

London is a wonderfully diverse city with a rich historical culture and an unmistakably fast pace. It provides a constantly changing environment with a wonderful array of events, shows and gatherings. Inspiration is all around.

Who or what inspires you?

All things girlie! Really anything unique that glitters, sparkles and stands out! I always endeavor to let this shine through in any piece of art I create. Inspiration is everywhere in the world around me – it can be as simple as picking a certain subject or technique and letting my imagination run wild!

What advice would you give designers starting out?

If you love what you do – be positive, work hard and good things will happen.

What is new for your company?

The range of products sold at my online store (http://www.sophielong.co.uk) is continuing to expanded, meaning excellent growth in online sales. My teaching methods and range of kits are continuously developing through my passion to progress my techniques – allowing my students continue to develop also. 

You can pre-order your copy of Inspired:London by Mary McDermott from We Make London

Follow the link to get your copy here http://www.wemakelondon.co.uk/pre-order-the-book.html