In the February issue of Bustle & Sew Magazine we were delighted to feature an interview with the lovely Lesley from Mrs Moog. Based in Hampshire, Lesley became a full time textile artist after a career change in late 2014. She creates individually handmade free-motion machine embroidered bags, purses, brooches and textile art.
We asked Lesley to tell us a bit about her design process, she told us;
“I’m known for my applique designs on bags, pictures and brooches and each design starts with the germ of an idea. Once I get an idea it can sit in my mind for quite some time before I’m ready to develop it but when I am ready I usually know exactly the look I’m going for. Initially I always sketch my designs by hand and often make numerous sketches before I’m happy with it. I may reference books or Pinterest to help with getting proportions and the look of something right but other than that I use my own sketches for the final applique designs.”
We also asked Lesley if she had any advice for anyone wanting to start their own business. Her advice was;
“I’d advise anyone wanting to start out to do plenty of reading about running a craft and online business. Read up on the tax regulations and know exactly what records you’ll need to keep. Try not to overburden yourself with using all the different social media outlets – find the one you feel happiest with, with the community you love the most and really focus on making interesting, fun and varied posts where people get to know not just your product but you as a person.
If you love what you do it will show in your work so just go for it!”
Be sure to visit Lesley’s Etsy shop to see her beautiful creations. She’s also on Instagram too!
*Read the full interview in the February issue of Bustle & Sew Magazine
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