New Tenant – Blood Moon

Can you describe your business for us?

 A small business focused on unique, recycled alternative fashion, working against fast fashion by using a range of pre-loved items to create intricate and unique fashion statements. Also works with print, and often sells print-pressed postcard designs. 

 

What inspired you to start your own business? Is there a story behind the journey to where you are today?

I have always had a passion for art and design, previously running a small, commission based business which I gave up to go to art school. Since leaving art school, I have started up my current small business with a focus on upcycled alternative fashion, particularly fashion influenced by the likes of Vivien Westwood, the punk and goth movements and Midwest gothic style.  

 

Did you go to University or study any courses that helped you along the way?

I did not go to University, however, I have a level 2 diploma in art and design from The Joseph Wright Centre within Derby College. 

 

How will being based at Banks Mill  help your business? 

Banks Mill has created a community that would be hard to find in the real world, giving me access and support from staff and tenants that would be hard to come by away from this environment, it also provides a vital and helpful stepping stone into the world of running a small business. 

 

 

What other work experience, support or training have you gained that’s relevant to what you’re doing now? 

Previously I had experience running a small business, and then developing my artistic skills during my time in college. Beyond this, I have had a lot of experience working with family, learning a lot of my sewing skills from my Grandmother, and practice repairing clothes for friends and family, with a reputation as skilled at such tasks now making me the go to person providing me vital experience as a seamstress. 

 

What are you currently working on in the studio? 

My current drop, releasing March 1st, is focused around western gothic themes, leaning into femininity and crossing the boundaries between traditional goth, and stereotypical feminine style, through the medium of textiles and print to create a stand-out fashion statement. 

 

Can you tell us a bit about how your work, the techniques you use or how long a piece takes to complete?

I use a range of techniques that define my work, with sewing and fabric work, along with print, both fabric and ink print, to create bold items, usually taking anywhere between 2 and 12 hours, depending on the complexity and intricacies of the piece. 

 

What are your plans for your business for the next 12 months? 

My plan for the next 12 months is to gain traction in the industry, growing my social media following and to increase sales 

 

You can visit Mars’ social media and web shop below!

Instagram – @BloodMoon 

 Web Shop – Blood Moon Webshop