A talent for illustration combined with a passion for storytelling led to the tale of Baatholomew, a sheep who was tired of blending in and so created himself a beautiful, multicoloured coat. The rest of the flock followed suit and Baatholomew realised that even though the other sheep copied him, they all looked different.

Mary Kilvert’s creation of Baatholomew and his multicoloured coat generated a spark of inspiration. This led to a series of collectable woollen sheep dressed in individual jumpers and made using dry needle felting, that are available in the delightful home and interior shop in Frome, Somerset.Somerset County Gazette: From storytelling to decorative homeware

“I love to make my handmade woollen sheep” Mary explains, “each one is unique and has its own character, I often get quite attached to them and find it hard to say goodbye!”

Mary’s parents are both artists and encouraged her to be creative. “When I was growing up I loved drawing and painting and always knew that I wanted a career doing something creative. I studied illustration at Kingston University and after graduating created a website for my illustration portfolio and sent out a selection of my illustrations to art directors.

About seven years ago I started creating designs for textiles, fine bone china and stationery which I sold at designer markets and pop up shops. It was really helpful to see how people responded to my work and to also understand what designs were popular.”Somerset County Gazette: From storytelling to decorative homeware

Animals also feature greatly in the work of Mary Kilvert. “I love their endearing and sweet nature. I also like how they make me laugh and have their own personalities and ways of doing things” she tells us. Growing up in the countryside, surrounded by pets, caused Mary’s parents to believe that she would either become a vet or a farmer as she loved the animals so much.

“I create mood boards for projects that I’m working on and have pin boards in my home and studio which are used for visual reference and inspiration.” Mary also uses mood boards for interior design and often creates collections of images of interiors that inspire her.

In her own house, Mary is keen to bring her designs into the home. “We have a selection of my mugs which feature our pets” she says. “I have also designed wallpaper for our home as well as created prints for my son and daughter’s bedrooms.” Mary will be extending her shop this year and incorporating more interior related products, such as an expanded wallpaper range and offering a selection of furniture and prints.Somerset County Gazette: From storytelling to decorative homeware

So, if wish to see these beautifully bespoke, handmade, felted sheep sat alongside some stunning colourful gifts and home accessories, then take a trip to Mary Kilvert.

If you would like to find out more, visit www.marykilvert.com