Femke Winde Lemmens became entranced by weaving after observing a woman working at a loom. The woman looked so peaceful that Femke decided that she wanted to try it herself to combat the long hours she spent on a computer as a product designer.

She attended workshops with a weaver in Suffolk and then went on to build her own loom at home. Femke specialises in Saori, a freestyle hand-weaving approach that originates from Japan. It is a blend of art and design with irregular patterns, abstract arrangements and splashes of colour that are without rules. The creations are full of personality and movement.

Femke also weaves wonderful willow baskets that can be found at The Merchant’s Table. Some have straps so that they can be worn as a backpack for countryside pursuits, such as foraging. Others can be placed around the home as attractive storage options.