William Kilburn, print designs for calico c.1800.

It blew my socks off when I first discovered these archival designs in 2014, flicking the pages of The World of Interiors. At the time I was working on some illustrated ceramics which became much inspired by these stylised leaves. The article was accompanied by reproductions of the patterns made by Sholto Drumlangrig and the whole collection was made into a book by The Fleece Press.

I’ve never forgotten these patterns that look as if they were made 150 years later than they were. Some almost feel Japanese or Scandinavian to me and so unlike William’s mainstay of more elaborate chintzes. I love simple almost abstract shapes like this, which highlight the beauty of nature. Perfection - thank you Mr Kilburn. 

I’m currently working on new pattern designs for the new year and have been lost in these prints again, along with an eclectic host of other inspirations and simply nosing around the garden for a shapely leaf...