For the Love of Laura Ashley

When the opportunity arose to open my very own shop in Machynlleth I jumped at the chance, especially after learning the address 37 Heol Maengwyn - Laura Ashley’s first shop. The space gives me the chance to display my work to passing trade allowing customers to see the real thing, I can even show them my workshop upstairs. The shop has so many original features that haven't changed since Laura Ashley occupied the premises, like the flagstone floors and the beamed ceilings. The beautiful front window and awning above, gorgeous front door and the bay window are some of my favourite things about the shop.

I’ve heard many stories from family and friends that worked for the company, allowing me to get an idea of the scale and energy that Laura Ashley brought to the area. I was introduced to Laura Ashley fabrics and furnishings from a young age, as my mother worked for the company for ten years.

I was approached to design and create a bag using vintage Laura Ashley to be included in ‘For The Love of Laura Ashley’ exhibition, and so fitting as I had just moved into the shop. Although my experience of working with fabric was limited, I was inspired to combine the vintage fabric with my leather work, seeing how these materials would pair to create a functioning piece for the 70th anniversary exhibition. The outer and lining of the bag is made from Laura Ashley Vintage fabric, whilst the thick Italian leather makes up the rigid handles holding it all together - the leather is hand stitched, like all my other work. Longevity and style is at the core of my work, and seeing so many timeless pieces in the exhibition at MOMA reinforces the importance of great design and quality. I was honoured to be asked to be a part of the exhibition, and I look forward to continuing the tradition of this at my little shop at 37 Heol Maengwyn, Machynlleth.