How I Found Inspiration For My New Pattern Designs

In 2014 I took a trip of a lifetime to Japan with my husband and then teenage daughter and it is easily one of the best holidays I have ever had. I loved the contrast between the busy, ultra-modern, crazy Tokyo with the beautiful ancient city of Kyoto. The tranquil Buddhist temples, Zen gardens and the peaceful mountain village of Takayama in the Japanese Alps and the brashness of Osaka. And of course the amazing sushi. No wonder it’s known as a country of contrasts.

Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima

Meiji-Jingu Shrine, Harajuku, Tokyo

Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto

When I was there I fell in love with the beautiful colours, unique patterns and bold graphic motifs combined with the organic shapes found in Japanese kimonos . Ever since then I have been inspired to include them in some way into my paintings and patterns.

Kimono Forest at Randen Tram Station in Arashiyama, Kyoto

Over the years I have collected books on Japanese textiles, patterns and kimonos and they have provided an endless source of colour palettes and ideas for my own fabric designs.

With my new fabric collection I wanted to draw on these influences and re-interpret them in a contemporary bold way for you to enjoy everyday in the form of makeup bags, tote bags and fabrics for soft furnishings.

The Designs

One of the most iconic motifs in Japanese textiles is the cherry blossom or ‘Sakura’ and in this collection I have created it in a simplified but bold stylised form, as a medium scale floral pattern.

This is a versatile pattern that looks great on accessories such as makeup bags and toiletry bags, large tote bags and equally stunning on curtains, blinds and cushions and as statement upholstery fabric covering chairs, headboards and footstools.

Sakura Pink cotton drill fabric

I would also love to add an abstract interpretation of leaves and branches to the collection as a dramatic contrast to the florals, so watch this space! You can find out when by signing up to my regular subscriber emails to keep up to date with new designs, collections and receive exclusive offers.

Kyoto Pink Bold Floral Fabric in Cotton Drill

Bold Colour Palette

I’ve chosen a limited colour palette that captures the essence of all the seasons; spring, summer, autumn and winter but still staying true to my love of bold colour, so that’s why there’s still a colourful feminine pink (perfect for summer) included

• Cherry Red; A bold, warm red

• Ginkgo Gold; A soft, buttery yellow inspired by ginkgo trees lining Kyoto streets

• Koi Orange; A vibrant orange, like koi fish

• Momo Pink; A general term in Japan for a medium vibrant pink

• Mahogany; A deep rich brown

Sakura Koi Orange Waterproof Fabric

I’m excited to bring these designs to life on products all made in the UK, that you can use and enjoy everyday.

• Makeup bags-the small scale patterns feature on a line of makeup and cosmetic bags and large toiletry bags, perfect for your beauty and skincare essentials, and essential bits and bobs, at home or on the go.

 

Kyoto Pink Toiletry Bag

Kyoto Pink Small Makeup Bag

Sakura Pink Large Makeup Bag

• Tote bags-the ‘Sakura Pink' pattern is featured on my signature waterproof tote bags. The bold floral pattern makes them both functional and eye-catching.

Sakura Pink Cross Body Tote Bag

Sakura Pink Small Tote Bag

Sakura Pink Large Tote Bag

• Soft furnishings-fabric from the collection will be available by the metre in organic panama and waterproof canvas, for cushions, curtains, blinds bursting with rich colour and to make a bold statement why not cover a chair or sofa with it?

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