Claire Gelder loves all things hand-made, hand-woven and hand-crafted.

She has been crafting for relaxation and fun for over twenty years. In 2016 Claire left her career as an NHS Director to launch her new business, Wool Couture, which specialises 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. On 15th February 2026 they celebrated their tenth anniversary.

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 lives in Wakefield, UK and is proud to be continuing Yorkshire’s textile tradition

"From day one, my aim has been to inspire people around the world to try centuries old pastimes, by giving these timeless hobbies a twenty-first century makeover."

BOOKS
Crafting the Wheel of the Year - Claire Gelder and Deb Bowen.