HEY THERE, I’M NADRA
Textile designer and professional quilter with a clear goal: I want to inspire and enable people to make something beautiful using their own hands!
Crafting has always been a great passion of mine – whether it was embroidery, sewing or knitting. As a child I loved playing with fabric and yarn, and some of my earliest memories are of bright colors and beautiful textiles.
For many years, crafting was just a hobby and a way to relax after a long day at work in the media industry. Until that one day when I decided to make a handmade gift for a newborn – a little elephant with crackling ears and a rattle in its belly.
This little creature was a huge success. Friends and neighbors started asking me for handmade gifts to give and I was happy to oblige the rising demand. Gradually the creation of other toys, cushions and baby blankets built the foundation for a whole range.
During parental leave I founded my label ellis & higgs and started producing and selling handmade toys and accessories. After we moved to the countryside, I opened a shop and studio in our courtyard which still serves as my showroom and second studio today.
After a few successful years I decided to quit the labor-intensive production of custom made items and focus on my design work instead.
It was around the same time that I made my first attempts at surface design. Creating fabric designs for the quilting industry was a long-held wish and after taking my first steps on Spoonflower I sent my portfolio to one of the big companies.
My first fabric collection for Riley Blake Designs ‘Bloom & Bliss’ was a huge hit and even got reprinted.
During my collaboration with Riley Blake Designs I created four wonderful fabric collections, which were loved by people all around the world.
In order to highlight my fabric collections and show project ideas, I started designing quilt patterns. My very first pattern ‘Sugar Candies’ is still a favorite – mine as well as yours!
What started as a supplement for my fabric design work is the biggest part of my business today: patterns for quilts, pillows and accessories, a huge variety to which I add fun new designs every season.
My specialty are picture quilt blocks which are clever designed, easy to make and perfect to incorporate in many different quilting projects.
Sharing the quilting expertise I’ve acquired over the years, is something I very much enjoy!
In 2017 I started teaching quilting classes in fabric stores and at craft fairs. The techniques range from simple patchwork to appliqué and advanced techniques like foundation paper piecing.
I hope to be able to teach in person again soon and I’m currently planning some fun new classes – stay tuned!
It’s been an amazing journey since the day I made that little elephant, and I’m grateful for everyone who has encouraged and supported me along the way! I’m thrilled to be able to share my passion with you and look forward to everything that’s to come!
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Head over to my shop and find inspiration for your next project. Let your creativity run free and make something beautiful today!
