Archives for December 2014

The designs of Sheila Bownas were utilised by the big high street brands in the 1950s and ‘60s – M&S, Liberty and Crown among them – but you’d be forgiven for not having heard of this prolific artist. As she wasn’t credited for her work, Sheila’s talent remained under the radar for decades, that is before Chelsea Cefai bought up her 200-strong collection of designs seven years ago and set about reintroducing the bold and beautiful patterns to the art and design world.

It is hard to believe that it was only this year that staple British 1960s pattern Verdure was reprinted for the first time in decades by vintage fabric retailer Winter’s Moon. With the design held as part of the textile archive at the V&A, this is great news for anyone who loves a mid-century design classic! We catch up with shop founder Julia Grant to bring you her story of personal determination and a very lucky break.

Last summer, returning from a stay in Yorkshire, we broke our journey in the heart of the Peak District, with a stop at the David Mellor Design Museum and factory. Situated near the stunning Hope Valley, this architectural idyll is far from what you’d imagine a metalwork factory to look like. But when you understand a little more about David Mellor Design, the beautiful working environment begins to make sense.

It’s been a year since I caught the Welsh tapestry bug from Blodwen General Stores founder Denise Lewis, and the Caernarfon blanket now proudly draped over my own settee is a constant reminder of the infectious enthusiasm she exudes for her country’s heritage crafts.

Recently I was lucky enough to visit MOMA, New York, and there I saw the Danish family of wooden animals by Kay Bojesen, a simple toy with so much soul.