Sarah spent much of her childhood on the isle of Lismore on the West Coast of Scotland which is where her enduring love of textiles evolved.  She has memories of picking wool from the fences and bringing it home to wash, card and spin; rag rug making on an old cart wheel which had been converted in to a loom, and memories of her grandmother, a skilled Shetland knitter and lace maker, teaching her techniques passed down many generations.

Sarah went on to study textiles at Goldsmith’s College, London. During this time she worked predominantly with felt, exploring its potential as a medium for conceptual sculpture. Soon after graduating Sarah set up a millinery business which she ran for the next seven years before selling to the London department store.

In 2003 Sarah set up Mogwaii Design and launched her debut collection Chelsea Craft Fair. In her work she explores the interplay between felt and light designing window blinds and home furnishings such as pillows, throws and lampshades.  She recently introduced a collection of fashion accessories.

Her inspiration comes primarily from the qualities of the fabrics themselves. She writes:

‘For as long as I remember I have been drawn to work with wool. It is a fabric with such diverse potential: it can be tough as wood or soft and lace like. The more I work with wool, the more I understand its sculptural and colour potential. New ideas are constantly emerging as I work.’ 

Equally inspiring is the colours, light and fauna of the Scottish countryside.

Mogwaii has sold to many department stores including Heals in London, Home Autour du Monde in Paris and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.   She she has also completed many commissions.

She recently exhibited at the New York International Gift Fair will be selling her work at Origin: the London Craft Fair in October 2006.

Contact Mogwaii Design