It all started in late 2024, just after we settled into Studio 43 on Gorst Road. Mel walked past, noticed us painting our mural on the wall, and stopped to watch. A few days later we were sitting together, talking excitedly about working on something real. She asked if I’d design and screen-print original artwork onto her pieces. After some back-and-forth we settled on a bomber jacket. Simple, classic, and full of potential.
I sketched a few quick layouts to figure out placement, but we both loved the idea of keeping it clean: no extra pockets, just honest denim with one strong, thoughtful print that would stand out on its own.
I’d never collaborated with a fashion designer before, and I knew next to nothing about printing on fabric, so I dove into learning. At first I experimented with lino cuts, hoping for sharp results, but the tests showed it wasn’t going to give us the crisp detail we wanted.
So I bought a beginner screen-printing kit (wooden frame, mesh, emulsion, scoop, squeegee) and taught myself step by step: coating the screen, exposing it in whatever sunlight we could catch (no proper unit in the studio), washing out the design, drying everything, then pulling ink across the fabric. It was slow, often messy, and sometimes frustrating with no one around to guide me. Still, the excitement of figuring out a new technique and creating wearable art together kept me going.
We also wanted the inside to feel special: heavy matte denim on the outside, contrasted with soft, glossy satin lining. For that I drew a new pattern, a surreal flying eye surrounded by playful spirits drifting through the air. Those same spirits later became the centerpiece of the large back print.
I ordered printed satin online, but when it arrived the colors felt flat. We decided to tint it warmer, giving it a richer, more inviting tone.
When all the pieces finally came together on the table, Mel added her beautiful finishing touches: cozy fleece inside the pockets, neatly bound seams, and little details that made the whole jacket feel thoughtful and complete.
What began as a curious experiment turned into something we’re both genuinely proud of.
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