How it all began:

Indigo Blue designs was started back in 2006 with a Blog that I set up to get involved in a creative community online which I could fit in with my family and teaching job. This gradually evolved into opening an Etsy shop, taking part in craft fairs and accepting a few commissions. At this time I was making bags and purses and other textile based items. Then one day, whilst looking for some wool in my sewing room I found some thin rope/string. I tried crocheting with it but was a bit hard going then glanced at my sewing machine! Before risking mechanical damage I googled Rope Baskets…….well you can probably guess the rest.

There was not a lot of information out there at the time but that has changed. A lot of practice, trial and error and broken needles later I gained my own way of making rope bowls and baskets, started giving them away and then was asked could I show others how to make them. I like to source my materials from UK suppliers and currently I use 100% cotton rope, Recycled Cotton Rope, Cotton Rope with a strengthening poly core and Biodegradable Jute. I like to oak with other small businesses and due to this I have small batch runs and for the more colourful items I may only make two or three of that style and colour combination.
Commissions are always very welcome, as that is really how I started all of this.

I also tutor Workshops for others to learn how to make Rope Bowls and create their own unique Rope Bowl. These have proven to be very popular and gives another avenue for using up scraps of lovely fabric.

Whilst making bags and visiting craft fairs I was also running sessions for friends and colleagues on how to make bags, learn how to use their sewing machine and even running a few sewing evening classes. Demand started to grow and I then began hiring halls and small venues to run different themed classes for small groups. This then evolved in to the Rope Bowl making becoming my main work and most popular workshop to date. I am currently being booked by other small businesses, Sewing Guilds, small sewing groups and local event organisers to run various workshops and creative sessions for all abilities in Cornwall.

Today, 16 years after setting up my Blog and many twists and turns later, I am now taking part in local CIC events, workshops, supplying small batch wholesale orders, accepting commissions and new opportunities and directions are still enabling me to develop and evolve my small business.
The latest new direction is this website which I hope will enable me to reach people even further away.
I never thought that the skills I gained during my Fashion degree would eventually end up creating a small business and being fascinated with creating 3D shapes out of rope!