You may remember our lovely gnomes Colin and Helen, which we have announced earlier in the year. From their distinctive orange design to the careful craftsmanship that goes into each one, these gnomes are more than just decorations – they are helping to make a difference for disabled children and young people. We caught up with Julie, the artist behind the gnomes, to talk about where the idea came from, what inspires her work, and why supporting Challengers is so important to her.
What first inspired you to start making gnomes? Was there a specific moment or story behind it?
I wanted to re-start sewing for therapeutic reasons as I had a very stressful job – I also wanted a hanging gnome Christmas tree decoration for myself! This was about 8/9 years ago. I then found out that others wanted to buy my gnomes….
Why gnomes in particular? What do they represent to you?
My Aunt bought me a wooden Nordic Viking Gnome in the 1970’s and that, alongside a love of Tolkien, Michael Bentines Potty Time and fantasy novels, started my love of all things Gnomes [and dwarves etc].
Did you always see yourself as a maker/creator, or did this grow unexpectedly?
I’ve always been a maker/creator as a hobby, right from a very young age. I also knit and draw celtic knots/calligraphy.
Creative Process
Can you walk us through how one gnome comes to life, from idea to finished piece?
I will do some quick sketches and/or just make from my head. I have several body patterns which I use as a base, or I make up new patterns as I go. I use the pattern to hand-cut out the wool felt for the gnome, sewing it by hand, stuffing it to weight the body, attaching the beard, nose and hat.
What materials or tools are essential to your process, and why?
A good pair of scissors to cut out the gnomes and a steady sewing hand!
How long does it typically take to make one gnome?
From an hour to over a day, depending on the size and complexity
Do you have a favourite stage of the process and one you find most challenging?
I love it when they come together and I can name them at the end of the process. Most challenging, is being consistent when I recreate a batch of the same styled gnomes.
If your gnomes could talk, what do you think they would say?
That I’m daft! A mad Gnome Lady!
Behind the Scenes
Where do you usually create your gnomes?
Do you have a special workspace? I have THE GNOME OFFICE in the garden at home, which is a dedicated workspace to all things gnome.
What does a typical “gnome-making day” look like for you?
I try and work normal 9 to 5 hours on gnome making days – a day can involve designing, marketing, working on my webshop, making, packaging, sourcing materials. I also have days working on commissioned gnomes.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in making the gnomes? How did you overcome it?
Trying to make a NASA gnome helmet! This is still gnome-in-progress!
Have your techniques or designs evolved over time?
I would say my gnomes are more stylised now, as I perfect them and the hand sewing.
Meaning & Impact
What does it mean to you knowing your creations are supporting Challengers and the families they work with?
I am as pleased as anything that my orange Challengers Gnomes are supporting your wonderful charity by helping you raise funds but also by raising a smile for the children and parents alike. I have been involved with Challengers since the start of the motoring event some 12 years ago. I have raised monies for many charities over the years and also have a Genome Against Breast Cancer in my gnome collection.