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Makers Dozen - Q & A with Rhian Wyman

Makers Dozen - Q & A with Rhian Wyman

 Welcome to the Makers Dozen. We ask a Guild member a dozen quickfire questions about their life as a maker.

Today we talk to weaver Rhian Wyman. Rhian designs and makes blankets and home textiles using high quality British wools in her studio in the Forest of Dean.

The Makers’ Dozen Q & A - Rhian Wyman Design

Describe your work in 3 words
Unique, Textured, Handwoven

How long have you been a maker?
I started designed and weaving for my own company, Rhian Wyman Design in November 2017, so coming up to 7 years.

What’s the best part of your process?
One of my favourite processes is stretching the throw on the tenter frame. This is the first time that I can step back and see my design come to life.

What’s the worst part of your process?
Oh! hard question, lets go with sewing the labels on. All my labels are hand sewn on and can take between 15-20 minutes!

Do you have a favourite book about your craft?
Melinau Gwlan/Woollen Mills of Wales by Branwein Davies.

What are you reading?
I’m not one for sitting down to read but I do frequently look at The Concise British Flora in colour by W. Keble Martin, the illustration of the flowers are beautiful.

What’s your favourite film?
A Monster in Paris. Its a wonderful arty animation reflecting the style and feel of Paris.

What do you listen to in your studio?
The radio is on in the background but I am mostly listening to the rhythm of the loom, it's a good indicator to tell if something has gone wrong.

What one thing would improve your life as a maker?
I love the processes of weaving but sometimes setting the loom can drag on, so it would be great to have a bit more time.

What’s the best piece of advice you have received?
To keep sharing your knowledge to keep this traditional skill live.

What’s the worst thing you can say to a maker?
I’ve got one just like that from Primark.

Life as a maker can be challenging, would you do it all again?
Yes I would, if all the ups and downs I’ve found my way to express how I see the world.

Thanks Rhian! View a selection of Rhian's in our online shop here

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