The Wool Clip co-operative has a new member, Susanna Smith, who is now living in Carlisle after moving to Cumbria in February.

Susanna learnt about the co-operative after visiting the Brewhouse Studios in Alston and meeting member, Julia Neubauer.

"My fascination with handiwork and textiles began at primary school with cross stitch and embroidery but was really ignited by ballet costumes with their amazing embellishment and beading," she says. "From embroidery, my exploration of yarns and fabrics led me into patchwork, applique, machine embroidery and millinery. My interest in wool yarns and natural fibres came much more recently and it is still an ongoing journey – I now knit and crochet as well as weaving and felting and I work with lambswool, alpaca, cashmere, silk and angora."

"I've joined a few textile groups since moving to Cumbria and I was thrilled to discover The Wool Clip and to be invited to join. I hope I can make a positive contribution with fresh ideas that will inspire other people's love of wool and interest in all its variety."

Susanna Smith

A selection of Susanna's work, which includes unique knitted accessories as well as versatile crocheted vessels, is now on display in the shop and included online too.

Tracey Todhunter, known for her crochet designs and children's clothes, has also returned to The Wool Clip after a brief break.

"We're back up to 14 members," says current Chair of the co-operative, Julia Neubauer, "which gives us plenty of people to keep the shop open six days a week (Tuesday to Sunday) and gives each of us time for other projects and, of course, for our own making."