Eva Coulson / Hand Sewn Skirt

Sustainable Maker, Eva Coulson worked with a navy colour test organic silk sample for Mind Mend.

Tartan Mind Mend: Tell us about what you do, that defines being a creative to you.
Eva Coulson: Most of what I do is cutting up old/damaged garments and sewing the patches back together. I carefully arrange the patches to perfectly overlap and fit within the chosen pattern. I create and mend things for family + friends to express myself creatively and minimise our environmental footprint. Often clothes are discarded or put to the back of the closet when a small hole or tear appears. My garments are designed to show the beauty of becoming frayed & worn.

TMM: What creative pursuits, little rituals, or things to look forward to, helped you to keep going during lockdown?
EC: During lockdown, I made an effort to designate + separate time for uni and personal. Making time and focusing on creative projects helped take my mind off the unpredictable situation, while also tangibly reminding myself of the things I do have control over in my life.

TMM: Tell us about your re-imagined tartan piece and what inspired you?
EC: The silk skirt is made from an overused Tartan dress sample, as well as a damaged navy blue dress. This was my first time primarily working with silk, after a bit of trial and error, I found careful hand-stitching was the best way to assemble the piece. Japanese Boro Texiles, Mid-Century crazy quilts, Kintsugi, thrift shop finds and geometric repeating patterns, are all things that inspire me.

TMM: How has the lockdown affected your creative process?
EC: In lockdown, I often found myself endlessly scrolling online. I felt like I was wasting the day spending so much time on my phone. On the other hand, while exploring the internet I came across many hidden gems, beautiful things, and aesthetic Insta pages that continue to inspire me. Lockdown provided time otherwise spent commuting, conversing and socialising, to unashamedly explore my interests/concepts without any interference.

TMM: When the world opens back up, what is the first thing you would love to do?
EC: See my friends in Melbourne & my family in Sydney <3

100% Silk
Gentle Hand Wash Separately
Dry In Shade
Sample Size: 2/M

Due to the handmade nature of this item any imperfections are considered intentional and are unique characteristics of this one of a kind piece. Over time changes may occur. Handle with care. No exchanges or refunds are available for Tartan Mind Mend charity auction items.

@_helejna