Meet Christine Powell

Knitting Tutor

  • Passionate knitter with a love of stranded colourwork and hat design

  • Co-author of Knitting in Antarctica: 28 Hat Patterns and Stories of Life on the Ice

  • Independent knitting and crochet pattern designer

  • Former Antarctic expedition worker with an extraordinary creative journey

  • Multi-disciplinary artist exploring crochet, beadwork, mosaic, jewellery, sewing and more

  • Believes creativity grows through curiosity, experimentation and encouragement

  • Inspired by the beauty of handmade craftsmanship and thoughtful design

Email me directly: christine@clayandcotton.co.nz
Phone: 027 306 8346

Christine Powell's creative journey has been anything but ordinary. Originally from Southern California, she arrived in New Zealand after taking what was meant to be a single summer job in Antarctica.

That one adventure turned into eighteen seasons on the ice, where she also met her photographer husband, Anthony. Today, Christine calls North Canterbury home, bringing with her a lifetime of creativity, curiosity, and a passion for sharing handmade skills with others.

Knitting is Christine's first love, particularly stranded colourwork and designing hats, although she also enjoys creating sweaters, cardigans, cowls and socks.

She is the co-author of Knitting in Antarctica: 28 Hat Patterns and Stories of Life on the Ice and has published original knitting and crochet patterns enjoyed by makers around the world.

Creativity doesn't stop with yarn. Christine is passionate about exploring many different art forms, including crochet, mandala stone painting, beadwork, mosaic, jewellery making, sewing, collage and graphic design. She believes every craft offers new ways to express creativity and discover something about ourselves.

Inspired by the words of designer William Morris, "Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful,"Christine has built her creative life around making beautiful, practical objects that are made to be treasured.

Above all, Christine believes creativity flourishes in a welcoming and supportive environment. She encourages people to embrace curiosity, experiment without fear, and remember that there are no mistakes when creating… only opportunities to learn, grow and discover something new.