Marlene’s crafting journey began in the early 1980s when she started creating various crafts and clothing for her two daughters, Nicole and Amee. She delved into the realms of spinning wool, knitting, crocheting, sewing, and weaving. Over the course of the past four decades, Marlene continuously honed her skills in these areas. Eventually, she ventured into the world of long arm machine quilting and established her own business. Her expertise in quilting earned her numerous awards throughout the past 20 years.
In 2020, during the pandemic lockdowns, Marlene found herself yearning for a new craft to pursue as a hobby. Her search led her to the fascinating realm of hand-cranking socks. Intrigued, she imported an antique English sock machine, over a century old, from England. Despite lacking instructional resources, Marlene persevered through trial and error until she successfully crafted her very first pair of socks. What initially began as a mere pastime soon transformed into a thriving business.
Marlene’s hand-cranked socks are renowned for their meticulous attention to detail and exceptional craftsmanship. Those who appreciate quality and artistry find delight in the unique texture, durability, and comfort that her socks offer. Additionally, these socks are made from wool, ensuring that your feet remain comfortable without the perspiration associated with store-bought polyester alternatives.
Redgate Socks stand out as distinctive creations crafted in limited quantities, setting them apart from mass-produced socks. Marlene places great emphasis on ethical and sustainable practices when making her hand-cranked socks. She carefully selects natural and eco-friendly materials, steering clear of harmful chemicals.
Based in Alexandra, a small town in central Victoria, Marlene draws inspiration from the region’s rich history. With a deep affection for Alexandra, which was once known as Red Gate, Marlene decided to name her business Redgate Socks. She has resided in or around the area for 35 years, fostering a genuine connection to its heritage.
To share her remarkable socks and showcase her hand-cranking machine, Marlene now frequents various markets and fairs across Victoria. She also features her creations and conducts demonstrations at the Made in Mansfield store in Mansfield, Victoria.
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