Ellen Martin is a Scottish designer specialising in printed and dyed textiles. In spring 2019, she spent four months studying in Kyoto, where she learned traditional Japanese textile techniques while gathering research and inspiration for her graduate collection at The Glasgow School of Art. The experience she had in Japan has left a lasting impression and has greatly informed her practice as a designer.

Ellen’s work captures details found in her surroundings, often when visiting new places. With a focus on hand-drawing, collage and repeat pattern, she creates considered print designs with a refined use of colour. Ellen uses a combination of traditional and contemporary techniques including digital printing, screen-printing and katazome - a Japanese resist-dyeing method. With an interest in fashion and interiors, she likes to produce versatile prints that can be used in both contexts.

After graduating in summer 2020, Ellen went on to win The Clothworkers’ Company’s Printed Textile Design Award at New Designers. She launched her first collection of printed silk scarves in November 2020, which were featured in the Crafts Council’s Future Edit showcase in London. Most recently, Ellen has developed new products including hand-dyed placemats, digitally printed pouches and reusable bottle bags. Her products are made using high quality, natural fabrics and are made by hand in her home studio.