Samantha Barry

I am a fashion and textiles designer in my final year at Gray's School of Art, specialising in knitwear with a strong focus on sustainability and natural dyeing. My practice blends traditional craft with contemporary design, and I have a particular passion for working with 100% wool due to its natural warmth, durability, and biodegradable qualities. My final year project explores the fascinating world of mushrooms, not just as a visual inspiration but as a functional material. I have been experimenting with mushroom-based dyes to colour yarns naturally, creating a knitwear collection that celebrates the beauty of fungi and highlights alternative, eco-conscious dyeing methods. This work has allowed me to engage deeply with the possibilities of bio-based textiles and the role of slow fashion in building a more sustainable future. Through my design process, I aim to create tactile, meaningful knitwear that respects both craft and the environment.