Meet The Maker: Slow Progress

Who are you, where are you from and what do you make?

I’m Elyn (pronounced like Erin – but with an L) and I make all things patchwork at home in Sheffield.

What inspires you?

Architecture. Usually, but not exclusively, Modernist and post-war buildings. I find the sculptural forms fascinating as a whole, but its the little details that get me. Decorative patterns, material textures, the quality of light – endless inspiration!

What is your workshop luxury?

I work in my living room, so having a workshop would be a luxury! I dream of not having to tidy everything away at the end of the day.

Your favourite studio lunch?

There’s no beating beans on toast. A bit of marmite on the toast and grated cheddar on top for me please.

Best spot in the British Isles?

I’m not sure I can pick! There’s so many great places, and so many places that I’ve never been.

Edinburgh holds a special place in my heart, though. The train journey there up the east coast mainline is spectacular too. It runs right along the coast around Berwick-upon-Tweed, and the views out across the North Sea are magical.

What do you find challenging about being a creative?

There’s not enough hours in a day for me to realise all the ideas in my head.

What would you like to learn next?

Woodworking. I have a thing for chairs and I want to make my own. Maybe I should start with a spice rack though…

How do you let your hair down?

A nice long walk topped off with a celebratory pint. Living so close to the Peak District, I don’t have to travel far to see stunning countryside, but I love a good stroll around the unexplored areas of the city just as much.

What are you listening to at the moment?

Breakfast with Flo on NTS radio, a.s.o, The Blue Nile, ML Buch, Cocteau Twins.

What makes you feel well chuffed?

When I cut all my patchwork pieces the right size first time. And when my cat comes running to meet me at the door when I get home from work.

What is your fave recipe?

Meera Sodha’s recipe for spinach and paneer is a stalwart. I like to add things that need using up from the fridge – yoghurt, cream, extra veg – it’s always different but always delicious. I’m a throw it all in a pan and hope for the best kind of cook.

Who is your biggest inspiration? 

Sophie Teauber-Arp, Anni Albers and Gunta Stolzl – pioneering textile artists who pushed age-old craft into a new era and really knew their way around a complex geometric pattern.

What is your fave item on The Chuffed Store? 

Rose Arbuthnott’s Still Life with Orange Vase would look fantastic on the wall above my dining table. 

Spring summer autumn or winter? 

Summer, without a doubt. I can’t stand the cold and I hate the short days so winter is a big no. Spring and autumn both have their charm, but summertime is my time.

Hannah Way would like to ask you….The question of all questions…..Marmite? Yes or no?

Mmmm salty and delicious. That said, it has to accompany other things – I wouldn’t spread it on toast by itself

And, lastly, one question you would like us to ask the next Meet the Maker….? 

What’s the best thing you’ve ever made?