It usually starts with a flicker—a flash of colour in a garden I’m passing, the way morning light hits a windowsill, or a half-remembered dream that lingers into breakfast. Inspiration doesn’t often arrive with a grand announcement. For me, it sneaks in gently, asking to be noticed.

Some days, it’s rooted in nature: the curl of a fern, the bold confidence of a sunflower, or the hush of a misty coastline. Other times, it’s a memory—of childhood holidays, days trips, or conversations with a friend. Little moments, half-glimpsed and deeply felt, that quietly ask to be turned into ink and carved into lino.

I’ve learned to trust these sparks. To gather them like treasures. Because behind every print I make, there’s a story—stitched together from colour, curiosity, and the beautiful, ordinary magic of everyday life.

Yesterday was the testy spring market and there were so many great makers there. I was next to the lovely On My Wick Candles (@onmywickcandles) and Urban Cubs (@urban_cubs).

On my wick create amazingly scented candles whose names are linked to children’s stories. My personal favourite was the chocolate fudge brownie, closely followed by pumpkin pasty - delicious!

urban cubs make the funkiest clothes for little ones. They stick to a monochrome palette in order to create fun items that are gender neutral.

Go check them both out!