Heritage Meets Handmade
This week has been one of those rare and inspiring weeks where creativity flows, stories connect, and fabric quite literally carries history. From stately homes with heavy drapes to the everyday tote bag you’ll sling over your shoulder, the thread between heritage and handmade has never felt so strong.
Last week I spent time with an extraordinary woman and her family who have been creating curtains and soft furnishings for stately homes for more than 40 years. From the National Trust to private homes filled with history, their work is stitched into some of the most beautiful spaces across the UK.
A Workshop Like No Other
Imagine stepping into a workshop forty times the size of my little garden studio. An automatic fabric cutter hums at one end, rows of industrial sewing machines line the tables, and every shade of thread you could possibly imagine is within arm’s reach. It’s a different world of craftsmanship and yet what unites us is the same: a deep love of fabric, the joy of making, and the stories woven through each piece.
My little Bobbin & Spool studio
While their name-dropping includes heritage homes and notable clients, mine lies in a more personal kind of luxury: pairing beautiful designer textiles with preloved fabric to create one-of-a-kind bags.
The Gift of Heritage Fabrics
The highlight of my visit? A treasure trove of designer fabric remnants generously passed on to Bobbin & Spool. Tucked safely into my cupboards now are stunning pieces from Colefax & Fowler, Sanderson, Linwood, and other heritage brands.
These fabrics, often destined for stately homes, are about to be reimagined into unique, sustainable bags. Each piece is a second chance at life transformed from offcuts into treasures you can carry every day.
How stunning are these designer prints together?
👉 Discover my current bag collection here
Why Heritage and Sustainability Belong Together
Using heritage fabrics isn’t just about beauty. It’s about sustainability. By rescuing remnants and preloved textiles, we reduce waste while creating bags that are truly one-of-a-kind.
Preloved shirts ready to become bag linings
Every seam is stitched to last. Every lining tells a different story. And no two bags will ever be the same. For women who want to carry something as unique as their own journey, this blend of heritage and sustainability is the perfect pairing.
👉 Read more about my making process
What’s Next in the Studio
Beginner’s Sewing Class – Everyday Tote Bags - 25th September
Some of these gorgeous fabrics will debut in next week’s Beginner’s Sewing Class. Together, we’ll stitch practical and beautiful tote bags that carry both history and your personal touch.
Choose your fabric and create you own stunning tote (with my help and biscuits)
Pumpkin Workshop – 10th October
I’ve also been collecting fabric scraps to turn into squishy autumn pumpkins. They’re perfect for decorating your home, styling your market stall, or even gifting to a friend. Join us for a cosy seasonal workshop and bring a touch of handmade autumn into your space.
Irresistible fabric pumpkins to get your home autumn-ready
Upcoming Markets
I’ll be at Sherborne Market this weekend! Come by, say hello, and see some of the new fabrics in person. Meeting you in real life is always the highlight of my week.
Spending time with a fellow maker reminded me of something important
Creativity grows when it’s shared. Surround yourself with people and places that refill your energy cup, and the inspiration will always follow.
With love,
Claire
P.S. Even if you don’t need a new bag right now, remember they make unforgettable one-of-a-kind gifts, just like the women you’d give them to.