My name is Charlie. I am a textile designer, illustrator and craftswoman living and working in the beautiful and historic cotswold village of Lechlade-on-Thames.
I have over 20 years experience working in the fashion industry both in the U.S.A and the U.K. and I am now making a living as an artist and maker as part of a transition away from the regular hours of my design studio job. Building a creative business and being self-employed has given me the ability to work odd hours and enables me to take better care of my physical and mental health.
I live with a chronic pain disorder that often means I feel my best and most productive late at night, long after most businesses have closed for the day. Owning my own business, being able to vary my working hours and manage my own deadlines has made it possible for me to continue working as a creative designer.
The simple fact that you have taken the time to read this far means the world to me! Choosing to purchase one of my designs when you have so many other options to choose from means even more!! I'm thrilled that you like these designs.
Your support is changing my life and the lives of other creatives and independent makers like me. We all work hard to overcome the challenges our lives present us with, and choosing to purchase something from Stone Dove not only helps support me as I continue to build my business and improve my craft, but also helps bring awareness and understanding to neurological and mental wellness.
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The name Stone Dove comes from the beautiful, grade II listed building I look at through my studio window every day. The cotswold stone Dovecote is approx 300 years old, and on the very apex of it’s angled roofline sits the stone dove I have named my crafts after.
Over the last 20 years I have spent designing and illustrating fabrics for the apparel and accessories industry, I have come to understand the toll that the mass production of materials can take on the environment. Now, as I begin to grow my own handmade craft business, my primary goal is to use local suppliers that produce materials responsibly.
All the fabrics I use are either Vintage, Repurposed or Responsibly sourced in the UK. I only use water based inks that are certified and eco-friendly and all stationary items I make for my business are locally produced and 100% recycled.
On a more personal note, I have also lived with Chronic Daily Migraine disorder for most of my life.
Chronic Daily Migraine is a neurological disorder that often has mental and physical health repercussions.
Designing prints and patterns and making bags and accessories is my greatest passion. Focusing my creativity and love of colour and textiles on something I enjoy producing and sharing with others helps me overcome the daily challenges of living with a chronic pain disorder.
Purchasing one of my handmade items not only helps me to continue my craft, but also brings awareness and understanding to mental and neurological wellness.
If ever you find you have a few pennies to spare at the end of the month, please consider including "The Migraine Trust" in the list of charities you would like to support.
The Migraine Trust is a charity dedicated to helping people living with migraine and their families. If you live with migraines or know someone who does and need help or more information, please visit "The Migraine Trust" at www.migrainetrust.org or contact them through their Helpline on 0808 802 0066