Who is/are Lesley Sophia?
 
Lesley Sophia is a business owned and run by Lesley Marsden, who gained a BA(Hons.) in Fashion Design in 1990. After graduation, Lesley spent some time working in ladieswear retail, followed by a period of teaching. In 1992 Lesley decided to set up Lesley Sophia, with assistance from the local Enterprise Service.
 

How long has Lesley Sophia been trading in handspun yarn and knitwear?
 
At the outset, although Lesley had specialised in the design of knitwear during her studies, Lesley Sophia was predominantly associated with the design and manufacture of bespoke bridal wear. Over a period between 1994 and 1996, however, the emphasis of Lesley Sophia's activities shifted from bridal wear to handspinning, and hand knitwear design and manufacture. Lesley has been trading as a handspinner, selling both knitwear and yarn, ever since.
 

Where can I buy Lesley Sophia knitwear and yarn products?
 
The majority of Lesley's knitwear and yarn are sold via craft fairs under the Lesley Sophia name. Some of her work, however, is sold to other traders, who make it available in their shops. Lesley also operates a mail order service, and often receives comissions from new clients, who have seen her work elsewhere, or who have friends who are existing clients.
In this way, Lesley Sophia knitwear has been exported to 3 continents, and into such diverse climates as Norway, Florida and Sydney!
 

What sort of fibre is suitable for spinning?
 
Provided that it is of sufficient length, and not too coarse, fibre from almost any animal can be spun. Lesley has, in the past, spun dog hair, cat hair and rabbit hair, although the majority of Lesley Sophia's yarn is spun from fibre originating from sheep, llamas and alpacas. Lesley Sophia also spins silk, angora, cashmere and camel fibre.
 

Do you have some unusual fibre that you'd like spun, or that you think Lesley Sophia may be interested in?
 
Lesley is always looking for unusual fibres to spin, and has recently been offered wolf fur! If you have something unusual which you would like spun, please contact Lesley Sophia to discuss your requirements.