We’re heading up to the Highlands of Scotland this week to watch textile designer Catherine MacGruer knit her latest line of abstract cushions and throws for Heal’s.
Balancing craft and new technologies, each design starts out as a series of deconstructed collages before it is reworked into a beautiful knitted accessory from super fine merino wool. To find out more we paid a visit to her small studio in the countryside to talk textiles and what the future holds.
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Tell us about the first piece you ever designed?
After graduating I started designing patterned Merino wool blankets before expanding my range to include other textile products for both body and home.
Where did you study?
I studied Textile Design at The Glasgow School of Art, and specialised in knitted textiles. I was and still am fascinated with the endless possibilities knit has to offer when combining bold patterns and quality wool yarns.
What is the inspiration behind your work?
My inspiration is constantly evolving, I am always inspired by travel whether it be within the UK or further afield, recording patterns and shapes along the way, through photography and collaging. Other constant sources of inspiration include, Scandinavian design, masquerade and folk costume and traditional Scottish Knit.
The collection of cushions available at Heals was inspired by the fragmented patterns within mosaics seen in Barcelona. The eclectic mix of styles and colours made an exciting starting point.
Do you have a design hero that influences your work?
I admire the work of many, from photographers like Charles Freger to brands such as Marimekko and artists and designers including Sonia Delaunay and Alexander Girard . The list could go on and on.
Where is your studio?
My studio is a small wooden cabin in the Highlands of Scotland, It was a building project for my partner Mike and I. With a lot of help from family and friends we sourced the materials, using reclaimed windows, flooring, doors and timber. It is naturally bright and I feel very lucky to be able to work in such a lovely space.
Tell us about your design process, how do you get started?
My design process always starts with collecting inspiration and collating it on the studio wall. I use collage to experiment with shapes, colours and compositions reworking them until something clicks. I then have to consider how these designs will work technically when developed in to a knitted fabric.
Do you have a preferred material or process?
I currently only work with high quality super fine Merino Wool. It has so many amazing properties, it is great to knit with on the machine and it is a non fibrous yarn which keeps the geometric shapes in my designs sharp. It is soft to touch and a natural sustainable material. The pieces are machine knitted using advanced jacquard techniques creating double thickness quality fabric.
How did you get involved with Heal’s?
Last year I won the New Design Britain Award for my Textiles at the May Design Series, A member of the judging panel arranged for me to meet with Heals buying team. It has been a dream of mine to have my designs stocked by Heals so it has been a very exciting and surreal experience.
How would you describe the collection?
The designs are a bold and vibrant mix of geometric patterns and shapes creating statement accessories for any interior. Knitted in the UK using the highest quality Merino wool, they are made to last and be treasured.