Elle 
MacMillan

Elle is a multidisciplinary Textiles Artist and Material Researcher with a deep-rooted passion for sustainability, craftsmanship, and the potential of bio-design. She specialises in weaving, having honed her skills on handlooms, Dobby looms, and Jacquard looms during her time at Birmingham City University, where she earned a BA (Hons) in Textile Design: Retail, Business, and Marketing.

 

 

Elle's practice is grounded in slow, intentional processes. Her work with natural dyeing techniques reflects her commitment to thoughtful, low-impact design. This ethos evolved during her final year of study, where she began exploring circular systems and biomaterials such as innovative experiments weaving with threads derived from eggshell waste.

 

Her ongoing independent project, 'BIO-ZINEs', is a self-published series dedicated to making the bio-design world more accessible. These zines provide a unique platform that shares sustainable design news, dye recipes, inclusive DIY biomaterial projects, and showcases upcoming artists working in the bio-design space. Through this work, Elle not only educates but also cultivates a growing, inclusive community around sustainable and circular design.

 

"I have learnt that bio-based circular design methods, in order to be industry successful, will require educating both our designers and consumers to the same level of degree."

 

Current Work:

As a freelance researcher, writer, and creative, Elle continues to publish BIO-ZINEs, curating and featuring artists who integrate sustainable practices into their work, while advocating for a more conscious and collaborative design future.