WHO ARE YOU?

I am a knitwear accessories designer based in Glasgow.

I graduated in Knitted Textile Design from the Glasgow School of Art in 2008 and since then have gained experience in independent retail, heritage and knitwear business.

I launched my own ethical luxury Scottish knitwear business in January.

I have a passion for Scotland, its scenery and heritage - my first collection is inspired by Neil Munro's Tales of Para Handy, drawing vivid colours from west coast harbours.

I wanted to create a range of products which were both made in and inspired by Scotland.

WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS DO?

I work with a team of talented knitters based in Hawick, a town famous for its historic production of high quality knitwear, to produce a range of luxury lambswool accessories.

My current collection includes scarves, snoods, headbands, mitts, cushions and hot water bottles.

Every aspect of the product range is sourced carefully to be in keeping with my ethos of quality and sustainability, including the ethical European duck feathers inside my cushions.

I currently sell to retailers across Scotland.

WHERE ARE YOU BASED?

I'm based from my home in Glasgow, where I have lived for around 10 years.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED?

I officially launched my business with the help of Business Gateway, Jobs and Business Glasgow and Youth Business Scotland, who offered me advice and a combination of grant and loan funding.

I received advice from Cultural Enterprise Office, Scottish Development International and Scottish Enterprise, who provided me with a training workshop in exporting.

WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND?

I started the Textile Design BA(Hons) course at the Glasgow School of Art in 2004, and spent the first two years working on design projects across the four disciplines of knit, weave, print and embroidery.

I decided to specialise in knitted textile design for my final two years of study.

After graduating I purchased a knitting machine to keep up my technical skills and try out product ideas.

A few years ago I worked in the Glasgow School of Art shop where I got an insight into independent retail and the wealth of design-led products being made in Glasgow and Scotland.

At the GSA, I studied alongside Gillian Kyle and she has been a great friend, offering me advice over lunch.

WHERE DO YOU PLAN YOUR BUSINESS TO BE IN FIVE YEARS' TIME?

I'd like to expand into a central studio and office space and hire a small team of staff.

I'll have a larger product range, including a baby collection and I'll be bringing out new designs each year.

I also see exporting as a large part of the business and hope to travel to international events.

WHAT IS YOUR TOP TIP?

I had an extremely detailed plan for my start up - to the point where I worried I had planned too much.

Now I don't think that would be possible.

There are so many unforeseen issues or expenses that will come up, it's best to nail down the ones that occur to you pre start up.

It can also be an isolating time so it's helpful to cultivate a network of friends and other small business owners, even if just for a bit of encouragement.

HAS ANYONE HELPED YOU GET STARTED AND HOW?

Business Gateway Glasgow www.bgateway.com / 0141 276 5333

Contact details:

Lucy Donnell 0141 946 7292/ lucy@lucydonnell.co.uk www.lucydonnell.co.uk