Helping to develop new design talent that is very important to us here at Corgi – that is why we are currently working with Creative Skillset Cymru and local Higher Education college Coleg Sir Gar to offer their textiles students the opportunity to visit the Corgi factory and gain some first-hand experience of the design and production process.

Ceilidh Ediker is one such student and she recently spent some time with us developing some interesting socks as part of her final collection for her BA Hons in Contemporary Textiles. We had a chat with Ceilidih to find out more about here experience here:

What are you studying at Coleg Sir Gar?

I have just finished studying my BA hons, in Contemporary Textiles, at Jobs Well Campus at Coleg Sir Gar. This is where I discovered my love for industrial knitting and traditional screen printing.

Why did you choose to work with Corgi?

I choose Corgi because it is an established company that has been operating for more than 100 years so I knew there would be a lot of useful information and skills to be gained. I also thought it would be a great experience to see how a successful knitwear business is run.

 Did you enjoy your time at the factory?

I found working on the factory floor really exciting as it allowed me to experience first-hand how the business runs from the inside. I found it really interesting using the programming systems and sock machines.  Everyone was so welcoming and friendly, it was like a big family and I enjoyed feeling like part of the team.

What did you learn?

I feel like I learned so much from working at Corgi. It was a great opportunity to develop my skills and I gained a lot of experience working in a busy atmosphere and being part of a big team. And I can now happily say I can operate an industrial sock machine!

Could you briefly describe your collection? 

My current collection is entitled ‘Tropical Forest – Flora and Fauna’.  It is inspired by the beauty of the rainforest and its vibrant surroundings; it consists of exquisite wearable knitted haute couture accessories, leg-wear, cuffs and scarves. I was inspired by all the mixed colours, shapes and patterns of the rainforest and the part it plays in the surrounding environment.

What’s next for you?

The next thing I am looking forward to is going up to London to exhibit and showcase my work at New Designers, which is the UK’s most important graduate design exhibition  – it is takes place from 25th  – 28th June 2014.

What’s your favourite Corgi product?

Well obviously I really like the sock collection – I enjoy what they do there and I love the colours, the materials, and the patterned design. I just love socks!!!

Here’s a sneaky peek at Ceilidh’s collection, ‘Tropical Forest – Flora and Fauna’. We wish her the very best for her showcase at New Designers and her design career beyond that.