This project exemplifies the evolution that can happen from a relatively simple brief to produce a truly beautiful final piece. Tasked with the intriguing challenge of integrating copper and wool to make a wedding anniversary gift. Initially, we have a handful of different ideas, from some key hooks to a wine shelf.
We eventually rested on the idea of making some tealight holders, inspired by a previous project we’ve delved into. We started with the idea of square tealight holders. However, we reimagined this into a slightly conical shape while browsing some old prototypes in the workshop. Adding three copper rings satisfies one part of the requirements, while adding an element of elegance that catches the light.
Uniting these three tealight holders, we created a thoughtfully designed tray that serves as both a base and a display.
The tray’s handles, a focal point of our creative journey, originated from an unexpected moment of indecision. Faced with three equally captivating yarn colours on the screen, choosing seemed impossible. So we chose all three. This led to a delightful moment of serendipity during the conceptual phase, as we discovered during experimentation that all three worked wonderfully together.
To create the handles, each strand of yarn went through multiple stages of hand-twisting. Once we had reached the desired thickness, we carefully twisted the three colours together to form a single, robust ‘rope’. We integrated two opposing twists of copper around the rope to add integrity and an elegant contrast to the handles. The copper’s subtle sheen against the soft wool highlights the unique blend of materials and the sophistication of the final piece.
This endeavour was rooted in a simple brief – at least on paper. It has transcended above its initial scope and now stands as a testament to the creative process. It demonstrates that there is always room for improving the design, even when running through the creation process. This project has highlighted the versatility of its various materials and the harmonic possibilities they can bring when brought together.
This quietly sophisticated piece, while small in size and subtle in nature, embodies our commitment to creating something that’s not just a candle holder, but a treasured gift and delightful keepsake. It serves a reminder that behind every crafted object lies a story of discovery, imagination, and sometimes, a little bit of lucky chance that brings it to fruition.
We are immensely proud of this creation, not just for its aesthetic appeal or the challenge it provided, but also the opportunity it gave us to showcase our craftsmanship and experiment with materials that we might not have otherwise considered.
As you consider this piece, we invite you to imagine not just its place in your home, but also the stories and memories it might hold in years to come. Our passion lies in creating more than just objects; we aim to craft pieces that become integral to your celebrations, your anniversaries, and your cherished moments.