Here at The Velvet Thistle, every flower, leaf, and bloom is more than just an art piece—they’re tiny fragments of the folklore, history, and beauty that weave together the rich tapestry of the British landscape. For my first blog post, I wanted to take you on a little journey into the heart of my creative process and share the inspiration behind what I do.
The Roots of My Creations
Have you ever wandered through a forest at twilight and felt the hush of the trees, as if they’re guarding secrets from centuries past? That’s the feeling I want to capture in my work. My flowers are inspired by wild places—hedgerows bursting with primroses, moss-covered stones, and the silent watch of an ancient oak. Each piece is a tribute to the untamed beauty of nature and the whispers of old stories passed down through generations.
Much of my work also draws from folklore and fairytales, particularly the darker tales that capture the wild, mysterious, and sometimes haunting spirit of the natural world. I love weaving these elements into my flowers, giving each one a story of its own.
Crafting Magic, Petal by Petal
Using cold porcelain clay, I handcraft every flower, leaf, and stem with painstaking detail. Although the process is slow, it allows me to bring each piece to life, as if it’s sprung directly from the soil. I also incorporate foraged materials, responsibly sourced elements like moss and feathers, and sometimes a preserved bone or two. It is important to me that the flaws are captured too. For me, part of the beauty lies in the imperfections and the imagery that is created by incorporating them. After all, there aren't many leaves and flowers that haven't been nibbled somewhere by a passing snail or bug!
It’s not just about creating something beautiful though—it’s about creating something meaningful. Each flower should feel like a bridge between our modern lives and the wild, magical world we often forget is right outside our doors.
Bringing Stories to Life
The Collectors’ Emporium (my shop) is where these creations find their new homes. But each flower comes with more than just its form—it comes with a story. Whether it’s the legend of the fairy ring that inspired a collection or the folklore surrounding the primrose as a key to unlocking hidden realms, I aim to create not just art but connection.
Some of my fondest memories are of being snuggled up reading, lost in a world of magic and fantasy that offered a total escape from everything for a few hours. Those stories were part of my children's bedtimes too and the memories and emotions that each story conjures up are now beautifully entwined. I wanted to capture that same sense of wonder and escapism in my creations—pieces that transport you to another world, sparking your imagination and connecting you to the magic of nature and folklore. Each flower, leaf, and arrangement is crafted with that feeling in mind, blending the beauty of the wild with the enchantment of storytelling
Why "The Velvet Thistle"?
The name itself is a nod to contrasts—the softness of velvet paired with the hardy, untamed spirit of a thistle. It’s a reminder that beauty is often found in the unexpected, and that nature’s magic is all around us, waiting to be discovered.
Let’s Wander Together
I hope my work inspires you to see the natural world a little differently, to pause and wonder at the magic that surrounds us. This blog will be a space for stories, folklore, and glimpses into my creative process. Whether you’re here for the art, the tales, or simply a sense of wonder, I’m so glad you’ve found your way to The Velvet Thistle.
Stay tuned for more stories, behind-the-scenes peeks, and perhaps even a few surprises. For now, may the wild places and their whispers guide you to something magical.
Have a story to share or a favourite folklore tale you'd like me to explore in my work? Let me know in the comments or drop me a message! I'd love to hear from you.

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