Illuminating Elegance This Summer
With a particularly soggy May behind us, I’m more than ready to welcome in June, my favourite month, and soak up some hazy summer vibes instead (Ever the optimist). What better time to introduce my new Linen Scalloped Tiffany Collection, inspired by a softer palette and one of my absolute favourite textiles to work with. These dreamy designs in 100% supersoft stone-washed linen are finished with fringe trimming and braiding in irresistible colour combinations – you’ll always have a taste of summer with one of these in your home!
Part of the skill of my craft is in making timeless elegance look simple. But, in truth, a huge amount of love and care goes into each and every shade I make. Here’s just a taste of what each hand-crafted shade demands before I’m satisfied it’s good enough for you:
First, I cut lengths of cotton to wrap the frame. These strips are then dyed to the perfect depth of colour using non-toxic dye from Rit. Once dried and ironed, they are ready to be wrapped carefully around the frame before being stitched to secure. I then cut the two linen panels that will form the top cover. For this design I’ve chosen to sew french seams to ensure no raw edges are visible and there is no need for additional lining. The linen fabric is then pinned firmly in place – along the scalloped edge the fabric is flat and tailored to the frame, whilst along the top the fabric is folded into regular small pleats to create additional form. Sewing this all in place is very tough on my hands so I’ve learnt that pliers are my secret weapon here! Finally, I trim off excess fabric and finish with lush fringe trimming and contrasting plaited braid. I hand sew the trimmings to secure them in place before checking the finished shade carefully to ensure the work is flawless.
There are no shortcuts to quality and every shade is an investment of time and skill. But they are also made with love and care – and I think that’s what makes them special and ready to last a lifetime. Available in 3 sizes and 4 colourways, this design can be hung as a pendant or used on a lampstand. View the collection and let the summer shine in your home.
Looking for something a bit different? To discuss bespoke lighting solutions that are unique to you and your home, please get in touch and we can work together to create the perfect design to illuminate your space.
Amanda Wells X Ella Fletcher collaboration
At a visit to a market at Rosemains Steading last summer I discovered the joyous and colourful work of ceramicist Ella Fletcher. One of her stunning ceramic lamp bases caught my eye and I had no choice but to take it home and devote myself to making a shade especially to complement it. I can’t tell you how rare it is to work on something that’s just for me but it gives me such pleasure every time I spy it in my living room – and others too if the compliments I receive are anything to go by!
This happy pairing sparked a formal collaboration with Ella, which I am super thrilled about, and our work together has evolved into a lampshade and base combination that is extremely dreamy indeed! In fact, the lampshade I designed for the lamp base Ella and I created was the beginning of my linen lampshade collection.
The Ella Fletcher lamp base is made from white stoneware, hand thrown and glazed by Ella’s skilled hands. It is paired with my Linen Scalloped Tiffany Lampshade in natural linen, with green and lilac trimmings. We chose subtle tones inspired by nature for this collaboration, designed to be a calming focal point to ease any bedroom or living space. And as each base is handmade, you can enjoy a design piece that is only ever one of a kind.
Coming together in creativity…
In May I launched my first workshop in ‘Hand Painted Lampshade Making’, together with the brilliant Hannah of Hanem Interiors. Within the serene and inspiring space of Dukes of West Barns, Hannah and I guided attendees through designing and painting their own paper templates, before helping turn them into empire lampshades. The results were simply astonishing. And the best bit was that after an inspiring, relaxed and happy day together, everyone took home a beautiful and unique design to enjoy. Our students were also treated to the most delicious coffee and cakes, as well as a seasonal lunch served by the talented Chef at the Dukes Cafe.
“As a busy mum and business owner, finding a few hours to unwind can be challenging. This workshop was such a delight. I met wonderful people, enjoyed delicious and healthy food, and created my very own lampshade. Hannah and Amanda were really generous with their time and skill. It was a fantastic experience and everything was organised so well. Every time I see my lampshade, it brings a smile to my face. I love it! What a brilliant creative and relaxing escape.'' Larisa Ilin, Media Bloom
We couldn’t have said it better ourselves. And we are delighted that our vision for these creative spaces has become a reality. Our next workshops will be held in November, word is spreading fast so get in early and book your space now!
Shining a spotlight on others...
I recently snuck in an escape with my mum and the kids to the rolling hills of Dumfries and Galloway, where we stayed in a luxury self-catered cottage at Castle Creavie Farm. Dan , Keira and Odin were super hosts welcoming us onto their traditional working farm. It was a peach of a find: the kids were in heaven with the roaming pet lambs, stunning walks amongst iron age forts, fantastic panoramic views and, to top it off, a natural swimming pond full of tadpoles- we are a family of frog lovers so swimming with those guys was a joyl! And, to top it off, the charming town of Kirkcudbright is close by for oodles of artistic inspiration! If your looking for an escape away to somewhere new and not yet booked, do check it out!
Wishing you a wonderful summer with your loved ones,
Love and warm wishes
Amanda x