Aberdeen based textiles designer Matt Russell has received a top award in the National Bradford Textile Society Design Competition.

Established in 1893, the Bradford Textile Society is the oldest textile society in Britain, if not the world.

Their annual design prize schemes aim to provide a source of encouragement and inspiration to textile students and practising textile designers. More than 1000 students entered the competition this year.

Matt was awarded first place in the Clothworkers Foundation Award for his ‘Innovative combination of textiles processes for the Interiors Market’.

Matt is a third year student at Gray's School of Art, Robert Gordon University, who specialises in textiles and surface design.

He won with a collection of luxury laser cut and screen printed leather, which were inspired by an 18th century military sergeant's maps, profile, handwritten memoirs and photos. He used innovative techniques and methods to create a traditional style for his designs.

Matt said: "It is such a privilege to win this award.

“I was ecstatic to receive a letter saying I had won first place. I was invited to their award ceremony and conference down in Bradford on May 2 and awarded a generous cash prize - just a few days before my 21st birthday.

“For my entry to the Bradford Textiles Society, I began with my print design of the sergeant's hand writing, which I had created, developed and transferred into a digital format to be laser cut. Once the leather was laser cut I printed a layer of gold binder which added dimension to my fabric.

“I then developed these into an interiors outcome - showcased through my bed panelling and cushions.

“I am so pleased my designs were successful and it’s such a privilege to be part of this historic society.”

Find out more about Matt Russell on his blog and read a blog post from Matt on the design process.