Arlo and me poncho 1.jpg

My first 2 jumpers I ever made, during the pandemic. Made in Hastings UK

About Me
I'm Sally, based in Hastings, East Sussex — a British seaside town. The name Om Pom Pom is a nod to the song “I Do Like to Be Beside the Seaside – tiddly om pom pom”. I’ve always gravitated towards coastal places like Great Yarmouth, Brighton, and Cardiff.

Since November 2020, I’ve started every morning with a sea swim. It’s invigorating and helps with my arthritis, which I’ve lived with for over 30 years.

Roots & Influence
My heart belongs to Scotland — I cry every time I leave. I’m lucky to visit regularly with my Scots husband and our boys, Rufus (12) and Arlo (8). While the weather might keep me from moving there, the Scottish knitting scene is calling.

My Work
Due to arthritis, my practice evolved at Brighton University when a motor was fitted to my knitting machine. It allowed me to knit without pain, and that moment sparked my journey into graphic knitted and felted textiles.

I use only British wool (mainly Scottish), designing patterns digitally and knitting them in my home studio using a domestic machine. The fabric is then felted, cut, and sewn into bold, geometric pieces often described as having a “Bauhaus” vibe.

Products
I make wearable and home items including:

  • Poncho Jumpers, Coatigons & Cardigans

  • Hats & Scarves

  • Hot Water Bottle Covers & Cushions

Everything is handmade by me, and I’m happy to create bespoke pieces. Email: mailompompom@gmail.com

Past Projects

  • Baby Map Blankets with “X marks the spot” of birth – made for babies born in countries like Australia, Japan, Germany, India, and more.

  • Felted tea cosies with slogans like “IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, DRINK TEA.”

  • Hot water bottle covers with text like “DON’T GET COLD FEET” and “LOVE/HATE” mittens.

  • A project where I turned my son’s class forest creature drawings into felted toy cushions — a big hit!

Why I Do It
I love colour. In 2019, I found an old to-do list with “poncho jumper” uncrossed. During the pandemic I developed this idea — finally. It made me so happy I started creating clothing, not just homewares.

I’m now focusing on bold, colourful knitwear and home accessories — functional pieces of art. Orders come first, so while I'm still waiting on my own coatigan, I'm happy to knit for you in the meantime.

Follow me on Instagram: @ompompom