Meet the maker Nell Swift

Hello, I'm Nell
I can't remember a time before I could sew. I learnt on my mother's knee, making my first clothes aged five. Now, living in the Peak District, I’ve fulfilled a life-long dream in learning to weave. I'm part of an ancient band of artisans stretching back to prehistory. As an archaeologist, this connection with the past is a source of constant inspiration, reminding me of the privilege of the knowledge handed from generation to generation.

I am inspired to weave by my surroundings; by making things for my family and friends that I know they will love, and know, too, that I love them. I love yarn, the feel and the pattern telling me what to make and how to embellish it.

I fell in love with Sweden in my teens. I adore the designs I saw and I love Scandinavian textiles, particularly Swedish linen. My love of linen led to me finding Japanese linens and feeling a certain synergy between the clean designs and finishes of both traditions. All my yarns are lambswool, merino, natural linens and cottons.

I have taken my experience of production to the very beginning, making my own materials on an antique handloom. Weaving is my love, the expression of texture, colour and structure.

I hope you like my shop. All items are unique and made with love and care. I'm happy to make things to your specifications, so please drop me an email and I'll try to help...

Best wishes,

Nell