About

I was first taught how to make bobbin lace at the age of ten and have continued it as a hobby ever since. I specialise in the English bobbin laces, including Torchon, Bucks Point, Bedfordshire and Honiton.

With a professional background in education, I’m passionate about supporting the learning of this fascinating endangered craft. I run workshops and deliver talks and demonstrations, including online, and am a co-founder of the Lacemakers of Tomorrow community which seeks to support the development of new lace teachers.

I’m a Trustee for Heritage Crafts, a member of the Lace Guild, OIDFA and IOLI. I am also a member of the Wolds Lacemakers and co-lead their social media.

So why Cattern? I share my name with the patron saint of lacemakers, St Catherine. 25th November was her saint day and the lacemakers would sell their wares to the merchants and celebrate by having a day off their lace and by making St Catherine’s Cakes, or Cattern Cakes as they became known. So there we are- my name, a saint and some cake- a perfect combination 🙂

When I’m not making lace I’m mum to three children and enjoy dressmaking and blackwork embroidery. I work in academic development and have recently completed a part time PhD in Higher Education, meaning I now have more time to make and teach lace. I’ve lived in the East Midlands, Manchester and now live in my native East Yorkshire.