Studio Notes: Blackberry Lanes & Autumn Sneaks

September has arrived, schools are back and the routine is slowly returning. There's an unmistakable shift in the air. Along the Norfolk country lanes, the hedgerows are filling with wild blackberries, and the days are turning wonderfully blustery. Yet, there’s still that lingering warmth in the afternoon sun. Summer isn't quite ready to let go just yet.

In the garden, late-summer dahlias are reaching their peak, while the leaves on the grand oak tree outside our front door is beginning to turn a gorgeous golden brown. It’s a magical, transitional time to slow down, take a morning walk, and notice the subtle changes happening.

Festive Poinsettias & Summer Sweet Peas

The cooler breeze has brought a wave of fresh energy into the studio, and as promised last week in my Hope Garden newsletter, I’ve been busy working on a couple of new designs, which I couldn't wait to give you a quick sneak peek of!

1. Festive Poinsettia Cards
Christmas is quietly creeping into the studio schedule! I’ve been carving a vibrant new Poinsettia design celebrating those festive bold blooms. 

2. Summer Sweet Pea Notecard Set (The New Boxed Look!)
I’ve also been putting the finishing touches on my Summer Sweet Pea illustration for my notecard range. This set will be the very first to feature my brand new boxed packaging! I’m currently waiting on the delivery of these eco-friendly boxes so I can pack them up, but I think you’re going to love how cosy and gift-ready they feel.

Autumnal Favourites & September Blooms

While new pieces are being finished in the studio, here's a quick round-up of seasonal favourites ready to shop now:

The 2027 Pansy Botanical Desk Calendar A quick reminder from last week! Created from an original linocut carving and printed onto cotton card, complete with a display easel and C5 Kraft envelope. A thoughtful, postable gift, practical yet pretty!

Autumn Oak Leaves & Acorns Notecard Set Capturing the warmth of fallen oak leaves and acorns (also available as a fine art print!).

Golden Autumn Garland Card Recently featured in Country Living magazine and brimming with warm seasonal foliage.

September Birth Flower (Morning Glory). Celebrating September birthdays! Choose between the Classic Morning Glory Card or the intricateMorning Glory Garland Card.

This Week's Inspiration

September is all about gathering and preparing. If you're out and about this weekend, here are a few quiet details to look out for:

In the Hedgerows look out for ripe blackberries, plump rosehips, and hazel nuts beginning to drop. How about a wild blackberry & apple crumble this weekend?

In the Trees spot the first golden yellow patches appearing on local oak, birch, and field maple trees.

Words for the New Season
💬 "Ah, September! You are the doorway to the season that awakens my soul." Peggy Toney Horton