Ellen Merchant - Limited Edition
Ellen Merchant is a decorative artist and textile designer based in London who creates printed fabrics and wallpapers using traditional printmaking techniques. Ellen specialises in original pattern design, impactful colour & the application of traditional craft skills & values to vibrant, contemporary design for the home. Each month of 2023 we will be dedicated to a brilliant designer such as Ellen. Launching a limited product in one of their designs. January sees our promotion of Ellen Merchant bespoke Keepsake Boxes in Bluebells - Chalk. Bluebells is a nostalgic nod to the decorative floral forms of art nouveau; the simplicity of the design owing to the naturally elegant curves of these joyful plants that welcome in the Spring.
To see more of Ellen Merchant's work visit www.ellenmerchant.co.uk
Ellen's Tips on Mixing Pattern and Colour
- Layer Textures. I seek out interesting textures when creating the artwork for my textiles as I like to make sure you can see the maker’s hand and technique. By layering different materials and textures of similar colours you create new dimensions as opposed to flat surfaces. Anything becomes more visually interesting when the materials are tactile.
- Forget Rules on Colour. I believe colour should be fairly instinctive. When thinking about colour, I often try to surprise myself by adding a pop of something slightly unusual to the mix to see what happens to the overall look. It is often when an unexpected colour or feature is introduced to a space that it really comes alive. Everyone perceives colour in different ways, so if an unusual colour combination brings you joy then I say always go for it.
- Clash old and new. When I am designing, I like to look to mix inspirations from the past and present to create something new and original. A fun new wallpaper can cheer up some tired old pictures or furniture or and cast it in a new light, you can create a totally unique look and breathe life back into the familiar.