Claire Gelder loves all things hand-made, hand-woven and hand-crafted. She has been crafting for relaxation and fun for over 20 years.

In 2015, Claire left her career as an NHS Director to launch her new business, Wool Couture, which specializes in knitting, crocheting, weaving and macrame. She quickly got her DIY craft kits on the shelves of retail giant John Lewis and, in 2017, secured two Dragons' Den investors to help her pass on her passion of crafting to the next generation. Adding a modern twist to age-old pastimes knitting and crochet, Claire uses giant, chunky yarn and oversized knitting needles made in her own factory.

As well as a successful entrepreneur, Claire is also a firm believer in the therapeutic side of craft, particularly its benefits to mental health and well-being.

Claire has published three books with Search Press: Mabel Bunny & Co., Bonnie the Cow & Friends and Robyn Octopus & Friends. Claire's upcoming book Pocket Book of Knitting will be published alongside Pocket Book of Crochet.

Claire lives in Wakefield, UK and is proud to be continuing Yorkshire's textile tradition. Her website is www.woolcouturecompany.com

Craft Pocket Books Books