Handmade in Britain

Another week, another fair. This time I went to 'Handmade in Britain' fair in 'Chelsea Old Town Hall'. And what a venue to host this fair. For those of you who are curious click on the Hall's link to see the splendour of the place. I was taken by surprise when I entered this place. And I had not even started with the actual fair...

As it goes with any fair, there is always so much to see and admire. From jewellery to textiles to ceramics to glass, even this event did not disappoint.

'Janet Cross Ceramics' is one name I have to mention. As seen on her business card, her ceramic pieces have somewhat laid-back look. The finish suggests a bandaged up vase and since the shape is rather slouch you could easily think it a textile piece. How wrong you would be though. These pieces are indeed ceramic.

Glazed inside I can imagine a bunch of flowers proudly taking its place in one of these.

Another ceramist with a completely different look also caught my eye. 'Jane White Ceramics' had these beautifully coloured pieces on her stand. What I also found interesting were four large photographs showing the process of achieving this look.

As Jane White explained (when she saw me staring at them), she uses 'pit-firing' process that the photographs described so well. Just visit her website to discover more on this technique.

This just shows the dedication and love given to each piece and its production. This is exactly why I enjoy visiting craft fairs. I get more out of it. I get the insight into processes that would make me appreciate each piece much more than bought from hight street.

'Swithbert & Louis' proved the notion of something 'as simple as that being so effective'. How many times have you found yourself arranging a scarf ever so beautifully only to get out and have it all blown away by the wind?

The answer to such frustration is in Swithbert & Louis design. Just fasten it with a button and decorative button hole. Simple...and effective...

Showing the strength in simplicity is the best way to describe design. At least in my view. Therefore, every time I come across this attitude I like to soak up everything about it. Such an indulgence...

Not a single fair would be complete without jewellery. Of course there were plenty stands dedicated to this craft at this fair as well. One name that stood out for me was 'Sarah Herriot Design'.

The play of silver with black in jewellery have always captured me and the craftsmanship shows the standard of work involved in each piece. The focus is on lines and curves and the combination of both makes me believe that one can create almost anything with just simple geometry. Again, this is a simple idea that has no limits.

As the name suggests, Handmade in Britain brings together designers based in Britain to celebrate the label - 'Made in Britain'. How nice to see that local craft can deliver and is still sought after by many. I mentioned it in my last post and am saying it again. I pride myself supporting craft in any form. I think craft as such and designers who dedicate hours of their time to production deserve it. K-)