Never a chore, always pleasure.

Random Facts About You?

I once stood next to Zandra Rhodes.
I struggle going down stairs that are slatted.
I don't like Crabs, so much that I can't even look at a picture one without feeling funny.
I was a singer in a band when I was 16.

What got you started crafting?

I was always very good at drawing when I was growing up so it was always an ambition to do something involved in Art. As a child I was always cutting and sticking things and would always make decorations at Christmas with my Mum. I also used to knit with my Nan when I visited.

When I did get to Art college I was originally put into the 3D group and was advised to do Jewellery design, however on a visit with a friend to a University in Manchester I realised that I could do Fashion Design, I was originally put off as I thought it was more for people who were strict followers however I realised that there were so many different parts to the industry and that Pattern Cutting was what I wanted to work on. So the day after I changed my group and ended up at University of Central Lancashire 1 year later.

When it came to my wedding I wanted it to be about our wedding rather than a big show. I wanted it to all be personal to us which is why all that could be was not a mass produced item that was just expensive because the word wedding was in the title. I had always collected buttons so it seemed a good idea to put them to use, bouquets, table decorations, button holes, hair clips and dresses. I had so much fun creating it all so that it would be ours and everyone who came commented on how personal everything was, even the vicar did a lovely speech about it all and how it related to working hard to create a good marriage.

What is your source of inspiration?

Anything old fashioned really, I know it’s a big group but I have quite an eclectic taste.
I was brought up going to 50s music weekenders and festivals so I was surrounded by people wearing that eras clothing, but also studying Fashion Design I like to think that I have a wide appreciation of all styles. I like to mix things up quite often to have my own style, sort of revamping.

What have you made recently?

I have just put some rings on Etsy as I have so many really pretty Buttons I thought they would be good way to put them to use. They go nicely with any outfit so perfect investment for any wardrobe accessory.

Where do you sell your crafts presently?

I started just making items for family and friends but after the wedding I wanted to make more bouquets so I have them on Etsy and Ebay at the moment as custom made items.

The website I have was created when I did Alternative Fashion Week in 2009, I had made 50s style clothing and showed my Final Collection from University there, search for Lyndsey Cottingham to see images. The website needs to be updated a bit as it doesn't have any info about the Buttons but they will be on there soon.

Why are handmade crafts important to you?

Nobody else in the whole world has the same item as you, it’s all yours. In a world like today’s I think that’s a nice thing to have.

Find Me

Location
Leeds, England

Email Address
Lyndsey Fletcher (Cottingham)

Personal Website
http://www.lyndseycottingham.co.uk