MEET THE MAKER RACHEL MACLELLAN

You might think the process is purely creative, but designing knitted textiles requires a deep understanding of geometry and pattern calculations. It is intricate and often mathematical. I have learned that knitting demands a constant balance between artistry and engineering. Creating a new textile involves not only selecting colours and yarns but also considering the tensile strength, elasticity and drape of the material. That way, I ensure the final product is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. To me, this blend of creativity and technical precision is a fascinating aspect of knitted textile design.

- Catherine Coyle

I studied textile design at Glasgow School of Art (GSA) and graduated last May with first-class honours. We had the opportunity to explore all four disciplines (knit, weave, print, embroidery) before specialising in one. I started with knitting and instantly fell in love with the process, even though I was hopeless at the start. The concept of taking a cone of yarn and producing fabric fascinated me. There was no debate; I knew this was what I wanted to specialise in.

As a young person, there is pressure to figure out what you're meant to do. It didn't come straight away for me and I spent a lot of time trying to force paths that weren't right for me. When I finally found something that sparked enjoyment and ease, I knew I was on the right path. It can be rare to find something you love to do and are passionate about. Once you find that feeling of purpose, you follow it unknowingly until you end up where you're meant to be. The last few years have been filled with a lot of hard work and commitment, and straight after graduation, I set up my own knitted textiles business, Rachel Sophia Studio.