Foldable stool tucked into a corner—used for decorating, showering, and quiet adaptation. Not designed as a disability aid, but repurposed with care. In my cottage studio, adaptation often begins with small, practical choices. This folding stool—originally designed for household tasks—has quietly become part of my daily rhythm. I use it for sitting when decorating, showering,… Read More quiet adaptation: a stool that works
Image Credit: Mesut çiçen via Unsplash Series Introduction In a world that often feels overstimulated and overcomplicated, the pursuit of calm is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Beginning on the 4th October, this six-part series explores how design can be a powerful tool for cultivating calm—not just in our homes and cities, but in… Read More designing for calm: a sensory approach to sustainable living
See image credits (below) In an age of fast fashion and disposable goods, slow stitching offers an antidote—a practice rooted in care, patience, and sustainability. At its heart, slow stitching is more than just thread on fabric; it’s about valuing time, honouring materials, and creating something that carries meaning beyond its stitches. What Is Slow… Read More slow stitching: sustainability through needle & thread
As I build Soft Source, a sustainable materials directory rooted in care and accountability, I’ve encountered more greenwashing than I expected. Greenwashing is the practice of making a product or company appear environmentally responsible without meaningful action to support that claim. It often involves vague language, nature-inspired imagery, or unverified buzzwords like “eco-friendly” or “sustainable”—used… Read More on everyday sustainability, false representation, and the frustration of care
As I build Soft Source, a sustainable materials directory rooted in care and accountability, I’ve encountered more greenwashing than I expected. Greenwashing is the practice of making a product or company appear environmentally responsible without meaningful action to support that claim. It often involves vague language, nature-inspired imagery, or unverified buzzwords like “eco-friendly” or “sustainable”—used… Read More on greenwashing & gentle discernment
Sustainability in textiles promotes ethical sourcing and conscious consumerism. It involves choosing materials based on environmental impact, fair labour practices, and transparency. By collaborating with certified suppliers, supporting artisan communities, and staying informed about certifications like Oeko-Tex, individuals can make informed choices that contribute to a more sustainable future in the textile industry.… Read More how to source fabrics sustainably from around the world-is it possible?
These two images show the painting before and after. Living with a fluctuating neurological, and mental health condition alongside navigating neurodivergence means that my creative practice doesn’t follow a predictable path or rhythm. I experience fatigue, pain, sensory overwhelm, and emotional shifts that shape how — and when — I can make, decorate, or even… Read More Post ONE: A QUIET RETURN
A gentle essay on narrative sustainability and the ethics of remembering There’s a quiet kind of sustainability that rarely makes headlines.It doesn’t come packaged in recycled cardboard or certified by green labels.It lives in the stories we choose to keep.In the mishaps we don’t erase.In the tools we restore not for function, but for memory.… Read More archiving the unseen: sustainability in the stories we save
Beeswax, a versatile substance produced by honeybees, is celebrated for its beauty and wide-ranging uses, from air-purifying candles to sustainable food wraps and nourishing skincare. It is biodegradable and supports biodiversity, making it a valuable alternative to synthetics. Ethically sourced beeswax reflects a commitment to protecting pollinator populations.… Read More the wonders of beeswax: nature’s golden gift
Natural dyeing with plants and kitchen scraps offers a sustainable method to colour textiles, producing unique earthy hues. Combining dyeing with stencils or block printing enhances creativity and personalisation while embracing sustainable practices. This approach discourages harsh chemicals, making it ideal for customisable textile art and mindful creative expression.… Read More Recipes For Natural Dyeing & Fabric Printing
Rachel Bakewell 