About Alice..that's me!
Hello!
I am Alice and I run Wool & Water and Wool & Whiskers, a unique Bow Tie label from my garden studio in Amsterdam, fuelled by copious amounts of green tea. Matcha is my top favourite, closely followed by Gen Meicha.
I began my professional life as a British TV and Theatre actress, knitting in trailers and rehearsal rooms, at the sides of sets and stages as a way to pass the time. Acting involves alotof waiting. I cast on and off some of my earliest pieces while in corsets, flares or faux blood stained t-shirts! Before I knew it I was knitting for private clients, independent knitwear labels and designers.
Nearly 12 years later, with many incredible acting experiences enjoyed*, I seized the opportunity to study Knitwear Design (at the infamous Knit One in Brighton) before relocating from London to Amsterdam where I set up Wool & Water and then Wool & Whiskers.
Inspiration and Intention
My many knitting adventures created a passion for natural, sustainable fibres, the knitted textile and combining a traditional craft with a modern aesthetic.
I am an old soul (as if the fact I'm a knitter didn't already indicate that), inspired by both modern and classic forms of; music, film, fashion and art. All of these creative forms inspire me to create unique Bow Ties and Suspenders, Neck Ties, Bow Tie Pins and Necklaces, not forgetting Wool & Whiskers' Cat and Dog Bow Ties! All my designs are anchored in heritage yet fresh in perspective. Old school elegance with a twist of humour...and beautiful, sustainable yarn!
Individuality is in the Detail
Designing unique, limited edition Bow Ties, Suspenders and an array of curious wearable details came from my own passion for using outfit details to express my personality. If, like me you sometimes prefer all a considered outfit detail can say over volume and ebullience, you are in the right place.
I love how wearing a creative accessory indicates there is more to you than the first glance suggests. Unique and curious handcrafted Bow Ties, Suspenders, Pins or Necklaces can help share, or at least, suggest beliefs, interests and create an invitation for conversation, for connection.
If you are looking for a unique, eye catching, handcrafted accessory to showcase your personality, humour and individuality, you will find a range of handmade to order Bow Ties, Suspenders and more to entice you. And if you want something extra special, check out the Custom options and let's chat.
Are you a Curious One?
All the best people are. If so, consider signing up to my Wool & Water newsletter The Curio for a monthly missive of insights, previews, curiosities and the occasional discount code.
If you love to spark smiles with your dapper dog or classy cat then the Wool & Whiskers newsletter, The Treat is for you!
I also teach knitting online, I want to teach the world to knit...(who else is singing?). If you fancy learning to knit then head to my lovely Learn to Knit Online website and choose the lesson type that suits you best.
For those that have had their curiosity piqued
*My British TV Acting Credits Include...
My British TV acting credits include; Ballot Monkeys, Jonathan Creek, Silent Witness, The Rotter's Club, Doctor Who, The Verdict, City of Vice, Outnumbered, Casualty, Doctors, Behind Closed Doors, Rough Crossings, Rose and Maloney, The Bill to name drop a few… I was knitting or learning to knit on all of these sets and more.
Alongside designing and knitting Wool & Water and Wool & Whiskers pieces, I now work as a Voice Over Actress. You can hear my voice on audio guides, adverts and even the odd phone directory to list some of the lovely and varied jobs I get to do.