A YOUNG textile designer is set for the big time after being named one of the country’s most promising craftsmen.

Former Cirencester Deer Park school student Stephanie Cole, 24, has been named as one of the top ten textile designers to watch out for in 2012 by Channel Four.

After graduating from Swansea University in 2010 with a degree in Surface Pattern Design, Stephanie decided to set up her own business from her home in South Cerney.

Working with a number of local companies Her work, which includes art prints, cushions and tea towels, is made entirely with British materials and contains a strong local theme, with many of her designs sporting images of iconic Cotswold locations.

Stephanie said she had not expected to set up her own business, but “With the lack of jobs and funding available when I graduated, I decided I had to pursue something creative rather than work any old job – this was my chance,” she said.

“With the current economic climate, I think a lot more people are being brave and creating their own way of getting by.

“It was initially scary but I may have never even tried if jobs were easier to come by.”

Stephanie’s work is available at a range of outlets including Cirencester’s New Brewery Arts, as well as her website at the link below.