A silk weaver from Hampshire has won the first ever Fashion Textile Maker of the Year Award.
Shannon Bye, who works as the heritage weaving manager at Whitchurch Silk Mill, was given the accolade by Heritage Crafts at a special presentation on Tuesday, November 26.
The award, supported by the Costume Society, recognises a heritage craftsperson who has made an exceptional contribution to fashion textiles over the year.
As well as the recognition, Shannon received a trophy and a £2,000 prize.
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It is known for its Red List of Endangered Crafts, the first research of its kind to rank traditional crafts in the UK by the likelihood they will survive the next generation.
Shannon's dedication and passion for her craft is reflected in her progression as a silk weaver at Whitchurch Silk Mill.
In the past year, she has not only made great strides in her own silk weaving practice but also developed her capacity to lead a growing team of weaver tacklers.
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The Fashion Textiles Maker of the Year trophy was made by milliner Vivienne Lake using several techniques, including pleating and embroidery.
The judging panel for the award included Costume Society vice chair Professor Natascha Radclyffe-Thomas and fashion entrepreneur, designer, curator and educator Monique Lee Hylands-White.
The other two finalists for the award were Clare Campbell and Rachel Frost, both of whom have made significant contributions to the textile industry.
Professor Natascha Radclyffe-Thomas, vice chair of the Costume Society, said: "The Costume Society is delighted to be running a new Fashion Textile Maker of the Year Award and three new training bursaries in collaboration with Heritage Crafts to mark our 60th anniversary year.
"The award and bursaries extend the Costume Society’s mission to support the study and promotion of historic and contemporary dress by enhancing and protecting the skills of makers that are so central to fashion textiles.
"These opportunities are made possible by a legacy from founder member Anne Thomas, who worked tirelessly to celebrate excellence in makers and making."
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