Francine Alexandra

Francine Alexandra 

Instagram: @fa.francinealexandra

I am a design-focused individual, with a keen eye for detail. By receiving 7 GCSEs (including Maths, English, and Science) in addition to 3 A-Levels, grades A*, A and A in Photography, Art and EPQ Textiles which earned me a place at Loughborough University where I accomplished a 2:1 in Textiles: Innovation and Design (BA Hons).

During my third year, I worked as an intern, independent from the university which has further cultivated my design style, encouraging me to be daring and confident in everything I do. My varied duties involved assisting designers with their appointments and projects. I was also heavily involved in admin tasks, screen printing and hand painting on furniture as well as garment corrections, weaving on a loom, researching new trends and creating mood boards; all within deadlines. University continuously encouraged me to experiment with different materials and techniques to push my creativity. I thrived in all activities, especially the ones involving crafts and I loved being hands-on.

Since leaving university I sold my first fabric design to the TV personality Joe Lycett for which he showcased on the popular Great British Sewing Bee, broadcasted on BBC. Furthermore, I assisted in building a modern, garden studio which is now my safe creative haven.

I consistently challenge myself on any innovative projects, which certainly keeps me active and insightful. Some of my recent ventures have been spent restoring and repurposing wooden pieces of furniture. One favourite of mine was definitely recycling an old vintage, three-tiered sewing box for a customer, who was not only looking to repair, but modernise their product. Planning a hen do takes second place, which definitely furthered my knowledge in event planning. The role involved designing, decorating and planning craft activities for the hen party. I chose four rotating activities; painting pots, creating the bride's first recipe book, crafting your own name badge and creating your own cocktails. Additionally, I designed and made all of the signs and gathered all the crafting materials needed for each project. Not to mention designing and embellishing the cherished bridal vale, ready for the big day.

Alongside my craft, I have willingly volunteered for various projects. One of which, I built a sensory garden for people with learning disabilities as I will always receive enjoyment through helping others. I would consider myself naturally motivated and fun, with a positive outlook on life as well as having a conscientious nature and always striving to do my best and give my best in all that I do. 

EMPLOYMENT 

• John Lewis And Partners Selling Partner, from November 2019 to January 2020 and again in March 2020 to Present  

WORK EXPERIENCE

• Margo Selby Woven Textiles Design Company for Interiors
• Story Designs Embellishment and Embroidery Design Company
• Mirjam Rouden Digital Print Design Textile Company 
• Zoe Murphy Studio-based Furniture and Textile Design Company 

LOUGHBOROUGH  UNIVERSITY  

• Textiles: Innovation and Design (BA Hons)  2:1

 ST SIMON STOCK SCHOOL  

• Sixth Form A-Levels A*, A, A Photography, Art, EPQ Textiles  
• GCSE 7-grade A-C including Maths, English, and Science