Author: Round & About

Round & About

Local teacher turns love of nature into vibrant pattern designs 

From her day job in the classroom to her evenings in the studio, East Hanney-based artist and teacher Melanie Hunter is living proof that it’s never too late to follow your creative calling. In the past two years, she’s turned a long-standing love of design into a flourishing side business – Botanica Pattern Designs – creating beautiful, nature-inspired surface patterns for textiles and products. 

A full-time art and design teacher at local independent school St Gabriel’s in Newbury, has been in education for more than 25 years. “Teaching has always been a  
big part of who I am,” she says, “but recently, I’ve felt the pull to create something of my own.” Inspired by the flowers, birds, and plants in her own garden and surrounding countryside, her vibrant designs are full of organic forms and colour. “Every pattern you see on fabric – whether on a dress, a cushion or a teacup – has been drawn by someone. I love being part of that world.” 

Originally from County Durham, Mel moved to East Hanney 18 months ago and has quickly settled into village life. “It feels like a return to my roots,” she says. “I love the countryside feel, the community spirit, and the dark skies policy – it really gives the place a peaceful charm.” Her favourite local spots include The Plough and Black Horse pubs, as well as Wantage’s Regent Bookshop and the town’s treasure trove of charity shops. 

Mel is also enjoying getting to know the local walking routes – especially the community woodland between the Hanneys – with her cat Jago (a very regal silver Tabby-Maine Coon mix) waiting at home for her return. 

When she’s not teaching or designing, Mel can often be found exploring the area’s independent businesses or soaking up local community highlights. She’s especially looking forward to Wantage’s Christmas lights switch-on, calling it “a magical moment that really brings the community together.” 

Her creative venture, Botanica Pattern Designs, is steadily growing. She’s active on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook, and recently launched her very first collaboration with local artisan Claire from Bobbin & Spool, combining bespoke fabric designs with beautifully handmade bags. “Each one is completely unique,” she says. “It’s been such a rewarding process.” 

Looking ahead, she hopes to share her work at local craft fairs and galleries, and is open to licensing opportunities and one-off commissions. She also produces a monthly newsletter for those interested in behind-the-scenes insights and new designs. 

“My one wish for the world?” she reflects. “That we could all be just a little kinder—to ourselves, to each other, and to our planet.  
A little kindness goes a long way.”