In Prince George, B.C., Hannah Wasstrom uses an 1800s photography method and thrifted textiles to turn wildflowers into wearable art—and we love it! We chatted with her to learn more. —Noa Nichol
Hi Hannah! Please tell us a bit about yourself to start.
Hi! I’m currently a full-time mom of two (ages 3 and 1) living in Prince George. I love spending my time outdoors whether it’s gardening, hiking, foraging for plants and exploring with my family.
Through your work, you create one-of-a-kind, wearable art with thrifted textiles and handpicked botanicals; how did you come into this medium?
This whole creative journey came pretty naturally to me as two of my favourite things are thrifting and plants, native wild ones especially. I saw the use of cyanotype, an 1800s method of developing photographs, on fabric and felt inspired to do the same with the wild flora I love.
What products/services do you offer, and what makes them unique?
I create cyanotype printed clothing to sell in a variety of sizes and styles. I like to think of my pieces as wearable art, no two are ever the same. They are made with wild Canadian botanicals and/or flowers that I have grown in my garden at home.
Tell us about the process, from sourcing the textiles to adding the botanical details; how do you do it?
I source a lot of my textiles from local thrift and consignment stores, working with unique or vintage pieces is extra exciting for me. I’m always collecting and identifying plants when I’m outdoors which I then press and dry. I apply the cyanotype dye to the fabric, thoughtfully arrange the pressed botanicals overtop and leave them to expose in the sunlight for a period of time. The exposed dye develops and, after it’s washed away, leaves a botanical “blueprint” that is archival and permanent.
What inspires you to create these pieces?
The sustainability aspect of using secondhand textiles is important to me. I also love knowing that each piece is inspired and created by nature.
Can people commission you to create pieces for them?
Yes! I love creating something special and personalized for someone. I’m currently available for commissions through my Instagram page.
What’s been your favourite piece to create so far?
I recently created customized “Mommy and Me” overalls that are really darling and I’m pretty proud of them.
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