I came across the incredible work of textile artist Adeline Wang a little while back. Her unique and colourful designs really caught my eye. Therefore I was particularly excited when she agreed to share more about her amazing textile work. I am looking forward to sharing what I found out with you and hope it gives you new inspiration. So here goes…

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Hi Adeline Wang! Would you mind telling us a little about yourself and your background please?

I’m a self-taught maker who loves everything artsy and crafty. I moved to San Francisco Bay Area in 2015 and I have two little girls. My husband’s work has taken us to a few different countries before coming to the States and I got into arts and crafts because it’s something that I can carry on no matter where I am and it’s an important creative outlet.

Could you tell us a little bit about how you got into textiles?

I started with leather craft, moved onto sewing, illustration, jewellery making and some other art mediums. As many other people who love creating, I constantly try to learn something new. I started learning macrame and was inspired to have my illustrations turned into woven blankets. I actually got into punch needle art because of social media. It seems to be an increasingly popular craft and I was inspired by so many great artists. It’s easy to get started and it allows me to turn my original design into something cozy and beautiful.

Your pieces are very eye-catching, what inspires your work?

I love to play with colours and shapes. My inspiration comes from things I see in my daily life, such as flowers and plants, sometimes kids friendly objects and motifs. I have a little notebook where I write down ideas for the future.

Can you tell us about you creative process, what steps do you take when starting a new project?

I like to come up with a theme first, which helps narrow down the design. Sometimes I define the purpose of my project first, such as what it’s going to be turned into and who’s the recipient. Or I start by laying out the yarn that I want to work with, and let the colours and textures speak to me.

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How do you go about selecting your colour combinations?

In the past I just used my instincts and I did’t try to follow the rules. Now I’m more focused on learning the colour wheel and I try to keep some of the rules in mind. I still think that it doesn’t matter much as long as I like it!

What do you enjoy most about working with textiles?

I like the fact that it can be a piece of art with utility. They can be turned into beautiful decorations for your home or something that people use and wear on a daily basis. There’s so many types of fibres and techniques , the outcomes are endless. It’s amazing that we can express ourselves in such a creative way that’s also fun and even meditative.

Which other textile artists do you love? Are there any that inspire you, past or present?

I love Arounna Khounnoraj (@bookhou). Her work is so beautiful and inspiring. Rose Pearlman (@rosepearlman) is a great rug hooking artist. I also love the work of Jules Robert (@julie_weaves).

What is your home like? Do you have a lot of your pieces on display?

Definitely messier than what I prefer! Toys everywhere. I have plenty of plants and I do have many of my pieces on display, one or two in every room.

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What are you currently working on? Are you able to share any ‘in progress’ photos?

I’m working on a small rug with an abstract design. I’m also trying to experiment with dmc tapestry wool.

Do you have a favourite piece you’ve created so far?

My favourite piece is the first bunny rug I ever made. It gave me so much satisfaction to make and encouragement to continue this craft.

What’s next for you in terms of textile projects?

I worked on some weaving projects a few years ago but wasn’t happy with the outcome. Recently I’ve seen a lot of great woven work of others and it gets me excited about weaving again! I think this is what I want to follow up next.

What advice would you give someone looking to get into textile art?

I like the motto ‘you are more creative than you think’. Try to enjoy the process and don’t overthink. Get a kit if you want to start right away. I spend a lot of time looking into tools and materials whenever I try to start a new craft.

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We are trying to be a bit more eco friendly in 2020, do you have any tips or tricks to be more environmentally friendly in our day to day lives?

Reduce the use of single use plastics and recycle or compost when possible! Personally, I like to incorporate more eco friendly products in my home, like wooden toys for the kids instead of plastics. When I ship my work, I try to avoid using plastic packaging materials. I also try to use wood and metal tools and natural fibres in my crafts!

Where can people find out more about you and your work?

You can find me on instagram @by_adeline_w .

Thank you so much Adeline Wang! It’s been great getting to know you! 🙂

If you’ve enjoyed our Q&A with Adeline Wang and would like to be the first to see future Q&As with artists and rag ruggers, why not join our Rag Rug Community on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or sign up for our fortnightly newsletter here.

Additionally, for more textile inspiration, why not check out the gorgeous work of another one of our Q&A victims, Abigail Wheeler here.

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As always, happy rag rugging!

Elspeth x