Photographer, seamstress and artist talks about finding inspiration for her creativity

• You are a photographer, a seamstress and an artist. Has creativity always been part of your life?

I have always been a creative soul at heart. I’ve always had the need to make and create things; drawing, painting, textiles, photography – anything! I love watching my ideas come to fruition.

• You also paint on glass. How did that start?

From an old job. I was working in a bingo hall and they knew I was creative. They asked me to paint the windows, decorating them for things like Hallowe’en and Christmas.

• What inspires you in your work?

People fascinate me and I want that to shine through in all of my work. When I am photographing weddings, for instance, I love getting to know the couple so that my photographs really represent them and their love. Everything I see and think about is reflected in my work – I’m just bubbling with passion!

• Your embroidery work is stunning. How long have you been doing it?

My current job is as a machinist for a bedroom furnishing company (I also do all their product photography). I love working with different fabrics and when I came across embroidery it fascinated me. I taught myself and it grew from there. I only started last November but I’m a fast learner!

• You are a woman of many creative talents. What are your hopes for the future of Ginger and Crane?

I still want to learn so much and I am inspired by every turn I take, but I am really into creating my own bespoke upcycled fashion and incorporating my photography into that. I think that the artistic side of being green is where my focus will be in the future. Upcycled fashion can be really exciting and I love creating really unique pieces.

• What would you say to people who love the idea of art and craft but who have no obvious talent? *asking for a friend*

When I was younger my sister was a fantastic sketcher, but I couldn’t even draw a stick figure. I used my determination to keep practising and to get better. If doing something a certain way doesn’t work for you, try it another way. Don’t be afraid to break the rules.

• You’re moving into your first home with your partner soon. I guess interior design and decoration isn’t going to be a problem?

I am very much looking forward to it and already have lots of ideas. My partner even wants me to paint murals on the walls.

• How did the name Ginger and Crane come about?

I wanted the name to reflect me without it being my name. I’m ginger, which is a big part of my persona. The crane – the origami crane – is fragile but symboliz