Caroline Colam

I'm a punch needle artist and tutor who creates both wall art and soft sculptures with the technique.

I've always been drawn to textile art due to the fabulous textures and colours in it and I always gain inspiration from visiting exhibitions featuring the work of both past and present artists. When I discovered the technique of punch needle a few years ago I never looked back. My interest in history meant I was particularly interested in the origins of punch needle in traditional rug making and I have an ever increasing collection of old punch needle tools. My family also has a history of creating rag rugs (or proggy mats as I knew them growing up), a different form of rug making. I feel I bring the tradition right up to date by adding different textures and, as an absolute lover of colour, lots of mixtures of colour. Many of my pieces involve yarn carving where I use scissors to shape the punched stitches. All my work is completed solely by hand which makes it a very meditative craft.

As a teacher I'm very keen to spread the punch needle word and thoroughly enjoy teaching, what always become, very relaxing workshops. I currently have a few dates at the Attenborough Arts Centre in Leicester and I regularly attend yarn festivals around the country. You can also find my tutorials on the Ideas Hub on the Hobbycraft website.