Small Business Spotlight: Laura Holden Studios

Laura Holden Studio has the perfect cushions and creatures to give you the company and cosy vibes you need at home.

What inspired you to start selling your work?

My background is in Fine Art textiles, I spent some years exhibiting and applying for funding then moved into prop and exhibition design and education. The story of my current business really began after my second daughter was born and we moved to Frome in Somerset. I was very busy with two small children but I needed to be making in some way to stay anchored. I began making cushions and animals using fabric leftover from old projects of a hand-cranked sewing machine so I could sew in the same room while my daughter was asleep and not wake her. I began selling at the Frome Independent, an incredible market that takes over Frome town the first Sunday of every month attracting visitors from all over the country. It was my first time selling in that way and I loved it. I really enjoy hearing people’s stories about who they will give a piece to or why they are drawn to it.

You always have very unique and comfy design ideas, how do you come up with them?

Thank you! I think I draw inspiration from my childhood, a lot of the books we read were passed on from the 60s & 70s and I love the colours and shapes used in vintage illustrations. Both my grandmothers made my brother and I textile toys that my kids play with now. There can be such a feeling of love and humanity communicated in hand made textiles and I try to put some of that into my work. I enjoy folklore and the animals I choose to make often have a symbolism to them that has struck a chord with me. When choosing materials I like to think about what will feel comforting to hold and wear out nicely!

What is your favourite product you have made so far?

I love the Swan cushions for their swoops and curves and the golden pears for the way they feel when you cuddle them.

How do you ensure sustainability in your business?

I use natural fabrics like corduroy, cotton velvet and wool felt. When I’m able to source it I love working with vintage fabric. The stuffing I use is recycled and I use biodegradable and recyclable packaging.

Why do you believe shopping small is so important?

Supporting small businesses especially in your local community if you have the resources to do so is so vital at the moment. If we don’t they won’t survive and we will lose the individuality and a sense of community they bring to our towns and cities.

Is there anything right now you want to continue the voice on?

Using your money consciously and shopping where you want to see growth, support small bipoc owned businesses, female-owned businesses, LGBT owned businesses, businesses of people with young families. Just really any enterprises whose work you love and want to see thrive!

Do you have any small businesses that you love that you want to let our readers know about?

Alongside my textile work, I manage a small social enterprise called The Why Gallery in Frome. The Gallery sells work by wonderful independent artists and makers and the profits go to cancer counselling charity Why (We Hear You) who provide free, professional counselling for those affected by cancer or other life-threatening illness. I’d also like to mention fellow Frome makers, Scatter Jewellery, who makes beautiful unique jewellery using jesmonite and brass, and illustrator, Louise Boulter.

This issue is all about ageing, if you could give one piece of advice to your younger self what would it be?

I think to listen to your instincts more and don’t be scared to use your voice, but maybe that’s something I needed to learn from experience! One big thing that has helped me hugely through life changes and periods of feeling lost with my work is if you are a person who needs to create to just keep doing that, even in the tiniest and gentlest ways. And tell people about it! I’ve had some lovely opportunities come from the most unexpected places just by letting people know what I was up to.

Where can our readers find you and your work?

The Etsy Shop and on Instagram.

Words by Kirsty Taylor