Artist Bio
Lydia is a self-taught fiber/mixed-media artist from central PA who has taken recycling to a whole new level. Her handbags are individually crafted from reclaimed felted wool, cut and sewn without a pattern, so each bag has its own unique personality.
Raised on a farm, Lydia was always inspired by her love of nature. Using available resources pushed her creativity and encouraged her to look at found objects or cast-away items as elements for expression. She learned to sew as a young child but disliked following patterns which seemed to inhibit her own sense of style.
In 2001, after working nearly 25 years as a cabinetmaker, Lydia left her job to recapture her creative spirit and pursue a new direction in life. Because of limited funds,she began "playing" with some old sweaters and the concept of felting wool. After making a few throws and pillows, she created a purse as a means of utilizing small scraps and was immediately "hooked". She began experimenting with various construction techniques and designs, and soon found it to be a rewarding and joyful outlet for expression.
"I love that each of my bags is totally unique and that each design, like my creative spirit, continues to evolve"
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