Valerie Harrison is the artist behind Rie Designed
What’s the story behind your brand?
I live and work on the North Rhins, in Dumfries and Galloway and I am inspired by the nature and beautiful scenery here.
I have always liked to draw and make things and for many years I travelled the country selling handmade cards at craft fairs. I gave this up in 2004 to concentrate on our family business Wildforms, which sells nature educational goods.
Photograph: Stephen Jolly
In 2015, a local artist set up a Sketch A Day Facebook group which I joined. This got me confident in my drawing ability again and I decided I needed an outlet for my work, so Rie Designed was born, Rie being a shortened version of Valerie. The Sketch A Day group is still going and we have a joint exhibition coming up in the artists town of Kirkcudbright.
READ MORE: Take a look at these perfect Scottish wildlife gifts
What do you make?
I make a range of products including greetings cards, gift wrap, notebooks, magnets, posters, pocket mirrors and jewellery. Most are inspired by nature, although I also do a range of ukulele-themed items, inspired by my son who is an accomplished player. I have also illustrated a children’s book written by my husband Pete and a Dumfries & Galloway Wildlife Adult Colouring Book.
How do you make them?
I paint using watercolours and watercolour pencils, and use environmentally responsible printers using recycled or responsibly sourced paper and vegetable inks, where possible. My jewellery is custom printed on responsibly sourced European Birch plywood and laser cut.
What sets you apart from other makers?
I am an all-round nature nerd with a passion for nature and wildlife. I use my knowledge to bring realism and an attention to detail to my work.
British invertebrates identification poster, £4.95
What are your most popular products?
My recycled notebooks, gift wrap and my new range of wildlife identification posters are proving very popular. I sell on my website and through Etsy, in local gift shops and galleries, and also wholesale.
www.riedesigned.co.uk
www.etsy.com/uk/shop/RieDesigned
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