Originally from Oliver, B.C., Trish Raine moved to Fredericton, NB, and happily found footing within the local fibre scene. Outside of her work as an occupational therapist, she has immersed herself in her craft, felting in her free time, creating one-of-a-kind wearable felt, as well as art pieces that have been included in various art and fibre shows. She felts year round and sells her wares at winter craft fairs in Halifax, Nova Scotia, as well as Moncton and Fredericton, New Brunswick.
Trish says about her work, “I work primarily with nuno felt, a technique that fuses wool through fibre, in my case mostly silk. After taking a few courses I have learned the “seamless” felting technique, and have since been making jackets, tunics, blankets, scarves, shawls, and hats.”
Felting fuses Trish’s love of texture, colour and recycling fibre. Producing one-of-a-kind wearables is rewarding and many of the products are reversible, so that you get versatility within the design. Since the age of 14 she has been inspired by re-working 2nd hand clothing, except now she calls it “harvesting” fibre! Often it is the fabric or fibre that dictates the direction of the design and the look of the garment.
Inspiration comes largely from the 1920’s – a decade of glamour and classic lines. It also comes from the beauty and colour of nature. Everywhere she has lived has provided such a unique palette of natural colours and texture that she draws from often.
“My goals are to continue to push my designs forward, and continue mentoring under felters I admire greatly. I buy lotto tickets so that I can someday take formal fibre training locally or abroad!!! But until then, I’ll continue to challenge myself with one-of-a-kind pieces, advancing my skills and going to where my imagination draws me.”
