Su Cowell

I'm the creative director of CobWebKnits, a Dorset based company that specialises in handmade baby hats and children’s clothing. I design all the products we sell, predominantly through the company’s website. These unique, original and quirky designs were first available in a wide range of fruit, vegetables and flowers. In 2010 we launched a range of stripy hats with tassels, tails or mop tops and the following year a new range inspired by wildlife that include bunny rabbits, puppies, kittens, monkeys, bugs and even giraffes. Our clothing range also includes seaside and play-day appliquéd motifs. CobWebKnits has gone on to produce tea-cosies, egg-cosies and beautiful vintage inspired aprons which make perfect gifts. I set up the company in 2008 after teaching for nearly 15 years and love the diversity of running my own company. I have a very hands-on approach being involved with every aspect of the organisation, from production and IT through to sales and marketing. Sales have doubled each year and this trend looks to continue. In May 2011 I was recognised at the Women in Business Awards, winning the PR Initiative category and a finalist in the Small Business section. I created and manage the website which now attracts visitors from 169 countries to the website. I was winner of an international website design competition in 2011 where over 2,600 entries were received from around the world. I have been asked to speak publicly to various networking and business clubs as well as charities about how I set up the business and what advice I would give to those about to embark on a change in career. I’ve also shared my tips on how to use creative means for generating PR and attracting visitors to my website.