Former Sheffield teacher launches business aiming to conserve traditional textiles techniques

Ms Scott said: “I have always wanted to start my own business, and it wasn’t until I picked up my brush to create my own wedding sign that I realised I could actually do it.

“I’m so excited to be able to draw upon my experience and skills to launch Sparrow and Thistle.

"While I recognise it’s a challenging time to start a business, I’m finding that customers are seeking to support local businesses, and there’s a really strong camaraderie of creative entrepreneurs in Sheffield who have been supportive of my journey to date.”

The entrepreneur, a former textiles teacher at Bolsover School for six years, is utilising practical techniques honed during her fashion design and textiles degree from Huddersfield University.

Ms Scott has now opened a studio in Kelham Island, Sheffield, where she hand-paints large scale fabric signs to individual client requirements.

She designs, makes and supplies signs for a range of events including corporate gatherings, networking events, weddings and celebrations.

Discussing HER desire to conserve traditional textiles techniques, Ms Scott said: “Hand painting on fabric is a modern slant on tapestry techniques and it’s my vision to keep traditional methods alive to create unique, memorable fabric signs.

It creates a textured, natural look which is one-of-a-kind, and therefore something special to use as a unique backdrop in event spaces. I’m also finding that customers like to either keep the signs as a keepsake or to utilise time and time again, making this traditional and creative method environmentally friendly too.”