Gunnel Sahlin discovered her artistic calling in glass after a long experience studying, working and teaching as a textile artist. Gunnel's talent and know-how as a weaver and designer of textiles and wallpapers for various Swedish firms is evident in the boldly colored, graphic styles of her designs for Kosta Boda, which she joined in 1986. Just as a striking textile can dominate an interior, Gunnel's glass designs are centers of attention.
Gunnel studied weaving, textiles and clothing design in her home town of Umea, Sweden, followed by studies in design and textiles at the Konstfack in Stockholm. While still a student Gunnel worked as an apprentice textile designer, and later became one of the leading designers for Katja of Sweden in New York. She has also completed advanced training at the Pilchuck Center in Washington state.