Helena Powell

Glasgow School of Art

Our aim for the project was to create a contemporary bespoke product that utilised modern equipment by minimizing wastage in water and dyes. We want to make a timeline and transparency within this process and create unique pieces related to our collections. Documentation of the collaborative process has been vital to developing a completely transparent production that allows the wearer to be part of our process.

With research in materials, dyes, and processes, our aim of this project has been to convey how each step of a traditionally woven scarf can reduce waste within a textile product and how to utilise modern technology to reduce waste further. With skein winding, hand warping, and weaving, I have spent the past few years working with an array of weavers, building on the knowledge they have passed onto me.

I have developed maths to suit my practice and minimise wastage, as well as understanding fibres' effect on my work.

Top 3 Learnings

1. Problem-solving, with requirements to research and keep up to date with what is being developed.
2. I have gained knowledge and a wider understanding of crossing over into STEM for textiles.
3. The importance of team work, discovering the new ideas and importance of individual research.