About Louise

Swallow_Studios_Annyalla_Castleblayney_HandCrafted_Textile_Studios Louise_hand_painting_in_Swallow_Studios_Castleblayney Louise_Loughman_Swallow_Studios_Castleblayney

I am based in Swallow Studios just outside Castleblayney in a little village called Annyalla. I suppose we are situated in the middle of County Monaghan with its boglands, drumlins and little windy roads Monaghan has a timeless charm that feels untouched a little bit off the beaten track but is home to me.

I work in the art of batik this is when you use hot wax to create images on fabric it is an ancient craft origins in Indonisia

The wax is used as a resist and stops the dye going into certain areas of the fabric I use a tool ca a tjanting this holds the wax and allows you to drip feed a design or shape, I also use a paint brush to draw with the wax it has lovely effects like crackles in the wax lots of fine lines that add great texture and is very typical of batik.

Each scarf is hand painted in colour hues that explode with vibrant flashes and subtle washes twisting and swirling around the spiral designs that move throughout the scarf in a dream like fashion

I like to think that I have a perfect scarf to suit everyone

I have always been interested in Celtic myths and legends and love to bring the stories and designs to life in my own colourful way.

I often do bespoke wall hangings and framed pieces for people who want special little touches added.

Contact me if you have something special inmind louiselbatiks@gmail.com

I love walking through the country side and bring the dogs for a run I am a keen bird watcher and nature lover and have recently added a collection of local garden birds, and forrest animals to my scarf designs.

Swallow Studios is a lovely place to work owned by hand weaver Liz Christy with 5 looms and counting and a beautiful retail shop. It was the ideal spot for me to get creative.

Over the years we have had many bus tours from all over the world from people who love textiles to people that are mad about Monaghan

If you want to visit or take a tour contack myself or Liz

Thanks for visiting my website contact me if you have any question Louise

louiselbatiks@gmail.com