Shiel, originally from Scotland, has lived in Cherryville for over 25 years. Weaving has been a passion since 1978 when she was taught the art of hand weaving by Wanja Twan, Master Weaver, in Cherryville as a participant in a L.I.P. program.

The Cherryville Weavers Guild was formed as this time. She mainly uses a four harness Cherryville loom but also uses her 60" 8 harness counter marche loom for large items such as blankets.

The first Cherryville Festival of the Arts was the brainchild of this artist who also enjoyed, promoted and sold the creations of many local artists as proprietor of the Thimble Ranch Artisans Shop. Since selling the shop, she will spend more time weaving custom orders and preparing for craft shows in the Okanagan, the lower mainland and Whistler. Some items have been sent to Japan, Britain and other parts of the world.

"I prefer to work with natural fibers such as wool, cotton and silk, making articles at home such as blankets, runners and cushions. My more enjoyable work is creating vests, sweaters and jackets for men and women in casual styles using colorful tones; each one being a timeless, classic, easy wearing garment which becomes treasured by the wearer.

I enjoy the personal contact with the buyer at craft shows...it's fun to plan the colors and style with them, take the idea home to my studio and follow through."

Shiel's practical nature is expressed through each piece being not only beautiful, but affordable.