Olivia Criaud
(she/her)
Garden of Threads
My final textile collection explores the emotional vibrancy of Scottish gardens that shaped my childhood, using nature as a lens for colour, growth and memory. Through on-site photography, pressed botanicals and experimental colour studies with watercolour and ink, I investigate the contrast between wild and structured garden spaces. A major focus of this project is the development of rich textile surfaces through embroidery. I am experimenting with embroidery through hand, machine and digital methods. These processes are explored on light, fluid fabrics which echo the delicacy of the original research. The final collection of textiles for fashion considers responsible design through slow making process resulting in individual and one-off embroidery pieces.
Garden of Threads
Visualisations
Sketchbook
Research
Sustainable Embellishments
My extended design project explores sustainability in embroidery by developing ethical alternatives to plastic sequins and beads. Through experimentation with natural, biodegradable materials, I challenge unsustainable practices within the textile and fashion industry. Alongside my nature-inspired graduate collection, I incorporate dried flowers directly into embroidery, making them both a visual influence and part of the material construction. This highlights the fragility and value of the natural world. Hand embroidery is central to the project, requiring precision and sensitivity to adapt traditional techniques for use with delicate dried flowers. To further reduce environmental impact, I have worked exclusively with 100% natural silk fabrics.
