Inspired by Scandinavian design

Hello,

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I am Irina, a textile artist, pattern designer and teacher.

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I don't exactly remember when I first held a thread and needle, though I perfectly remember the creative atmosphere in our home when I was growing up. My mom sewed, knitted and crocheted whenever she had a spare moment. As a child, I watched her work with a mix of fascination and indifference. I never imagined that these simple acts of creativity would become the cornerstone of my life's passion.

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As I got older, I began appreciating the artistry of sewing by sewing all my clothing, often remaking old clothes into something new. Unfortunately, however, as I pursued my scientific career and had children, sewing soon became forgotten. 

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It wasn’t until 2014 that I finally picked up a sewing machine. I decided to make a quilt, inspired by a beautiful quilt made by my colleague at work. I knew nothing about quilting, and yet I attempted to make a quilt without a pattern, something that was both challenging and exhilarating. 

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Since that very first quilt in 2014, my quilting journey has been a tapestry of adventures, challenges, and, most importantly, learning experiences. Though quilting is often seen as a craft reserved for those who have taken formal classes, I proudly belong to the category of self-taught quilters.  I didn't go to quilting classes; instead, I dove into the vast world of blogs, experimented with techniques, and embraced the beauty of trial and error. 

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My style has since evolved alongside my skills; my designs have gone from traditional patterns and vibrant colours, to a philosophy heavily influenced by Scandinavian minimalist design. I find beauty in simplicity and clean lines. I am fascinated by pure forms and modern aesthetics, which explains why my quilts embrace such a contemporary style. 

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For me, quilting is more than just an art form. It is a way of expressing my voice. Each stitch represents a thought, a feeling, or a belief. My latest works dive deep into social issues that matter to me and reflect my perspectives, as well as my experiences in today’s world.

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I love sharing my knowledge with fellow quilters through teaching and blogging. Since 2021, I've had the privilege of teaching in Finland, Germany (Nadelwelt),and France (the European Patchwork Meeting).