I believe thoughtful design begins with understanding materials.
As a fashion designer and textile researcher, I approach design through the relationship between materials, craftsmanship, and communication. Rather than treating these as separate disciplines, I see them as interconnected parts of the same design process, where research informs design, design shapes communication, and every decision begins with understanding the material itself.
My professional journey began in the knitwear and textile industry at Xinao Textiles, where I worked across knitwear design, yarn development, product presentation, and international client communication. Collaborating with designers, manufacturers, and global fashion brands gave me a deeper appreciation for wool, cashmere, and the technical possibilities of knitted textiles. More importantly, it showed me that every material has its own character, and that meaningful design begins with understanding how materials behave throughout the product development process.
This curiosity eventually led me to pursue an MSc in Textile Science at the University of Alberta. My research expanded my perspective beyond garment design into textile performance, circularity, product development, branding, and visual communication. Rather than viewing these as separate fields, I became interested in how they can work together to create more thoughtful and informed design solutions.
Today, that way of thinking continues through both my research and Growling Stitch, my upcycling fashion brand. By working with reclaimed textiles, I explore how existing materials can be transformed into contemporary garments while extending their lifespan and preserving their unique history. Beyond creating products, I am interested in developing better ways to document, communicate, and manage material knowledge to support a more transparent and circular design process.
Sketching remains an essential part of my creative process. Most of my projects begin as hand-drawn ideas before evolving into garments, research, branding, or digital experiences. Drawing allows me to explore possibilities, test concepts, and connect ideas long before they become finished work.
Whether designing garments, conducting textile research, or developing communication materials, I enjoy bringing together different areas of knowledge to create thoughtful, practical, and meaningful design solutions. I'm always interested in collaborating with people who share a passion for material innovation, craftsmanship, and circular design.
