Mixed media designer: Aimee Betts
Bringing the tradition of embroidery to the forefront of contemporary design, this mixed media specialist creates a unique range of embellishments and textiles
After completing a Masters in Mixed Media Textiles at the Royal College of Art, maker Aimee Betts set up her own studio in 2012. Her embellishments, inspired by historic and contemporary techniques, add a modern twist to textiles, clothing, jewellery and even lighting.
Recent projects include a velvet cushion with knitted cord decoration for Burberry and The New Craftsmen.
- See: Interior design trends – the top looks for the New Year
Embroidery and decoration should add value to a piece of work; if they don't, then the design isn't working. I'm certainly not afraid of trying something new and experimenting with different techniques. In the past, I've said yes to jobs knowing full well that I'd have to go away and learn an entirely 'new' way of working. For me, it's an enriching experience that broadens my knowledge and keeps things fresh.
The diversity of my work lies in it not being restricted by any traditional definitions of embroidery, or the different contexts in which it can be applied. At first, I thought that I would focus solely on fashion embroidery, but after collaborating with different designers across several mediums, I discovered new applications for my work. Now I'm always trying to push the boundaries.
I work across a variety of genres, from fashion and interiors to lighting. I've gained a lot from seeing how my work can be applied to different materials. Recently, I designed a collection of Ricasso handles, inspired by European sword hilts on display at The Wallace Collection in London, working with braiding and embroidery methods to add leather ribbon, metallic threads and hemp cord to beautifully turned wooden handles.
A lot can be achieved by simply asking yourself 'what will happen if I do this?' As well as the traditional processes, technology and machinery play a big role in my work. There's nothing I love more than discovering a new way of using a machine or technique and pushing what it can make for me. I work with a sewing machine, a circular knitting machine and a digital embroidery machine to achieve different effects. For traditional embroidery, I will refer to my collection of books and samples, and look at drawings and notes taken on my travels and museum visits. The blending of techniques happens serendipitously as the design evolves. The objective is to make sure that the design is successful, regardless of the methods used to create it.
I like to be surrounded by colour, texture, materials, machinery, yarns, books, samples and paintings. They make my work environment really playful. I keep an archive of all of my samples, whether they have proved successful or not. I feel that it's important to maintain a visual record as sometimes dormant ideas gain momentum years later. The aesthetic may change but fundamental themes and ideas develop with time.
Sign up to the Homes & Gardens newsletter
Design expertise in your inbox – from inspiring decorating ideas and beautiful celebrity homes to practical gardening advice and shopping round-ups.
The physical demands of the job can take their toll and can be really tough on the body, but I've learnt not to punish myself if I can't do everything. The most challenging part is managing the different roles of being a maker. You have to be involved in every aspect of mnning a business, from marketing and admin to sales. If you're not careful it can leave very little time for making. At the end of each day I take time to reflect on what has been successful or unsuccessful. It helps to generate plans and ideas for the future:'
Aimee Betts, aimeebetts.com.
Photography/Alun Callender
Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.
-
Teal is tipped to be the color of the year in the garden for 2025 – here are 8 of the best teal plants you can grow to get the look
Give your backyard a whimsical feel with these unique indoor and outdoor plants that evoke serenity
By Tenielle Jordison Published
-
'Modest amounts of color can make huge statements' – Farrow & Ball's color curator shares 5 simple ways to transform the home with paint
Boost your existing color schemes with these small and unexpected ways to decorate with paint
By Emily Moorman Published