Many years ago I set myself a challenge. After years in the textile industry and years or seeing experience I decided to make a new collection without any stitching! This challenge was to create new work and fashion pieces that didn’t rely on using my expertise and skills to pish myself out of my comfort zone. To make a fashion collection in a slow and sustainable way, free from intensive factory processes was also my aim. Having skills in creative sampling and co-including with the covid pandemic I had no choice but to re-think my production. I had a home, a screwdriver and exceptional wealth of knowledge about materials and techniques for fashion and accessories. After much trial and error I developed many new ways to make a seam. Interlocking seams, riveted seams and also just creative pattern cutting became the founding principles or Mattocks - Handmade in Nottingham. By adding restrictions and removing parts of the production process intrinsically linked to the fashion industry I secured some freedom to do something different and develop ideas without the need for large minimum orders. This allowed me the freedom to make in small quantities yet still keep a reasonable price point for a handcrafted item. Using tradition leather skills and my knowledge of textile art I have developed a unique accessory brand that is easily identifiable creating statement pieces but with its roots in classic design and vintage styling. When you give yourself restrictions sometimes you do the most creation e work. You don’t need a lot just a few things you can use really well.
