Origin of a great idea

You know what’s so wonderful about these elegant pieces from designer Sarah Thirlwell, which I discovered at Origin, the contemporary crafts fair, this weekend? It’s the fact that I fell in love with them first and only afterwards discovered, to my delight, that they are ethically made.

Thirlwell makes very beautiful, simple and contemporary vessels, vases, lamps and jewellery from sustainable, home-grown timber and recycled plastics.

She uses a traditional wood-turning process to create the lovely smooth forms. And never has an old yoghurt pot looked so utterly beautiful as when it’s a curved base on a Thirlwell vase.

As I mentioned, I found Sarah Thirlwell at Origin this weekend, the modern crafts showcase at Somerset House. It was a treasure trove of amazing home style, fashion and jewellery, including ethical tweed tailoring from Eloise Lane, also worth a look.

A great option for a Christmas gift, Sarah’s work will also be on show at the Mixed Winter exhibition, New Ashgate Gallery, Surrey, from November to January 2009. If you miss that, there’ll be a solo show at Model House, Wales, in January and February 2009.

For more info, including prices, visit Sarah’s website