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I'm incredibly honoured to be shortlisted as a finalist in the Traditional Skills category of the prestigious Biz Bubble Awards. Being recognised alongside such talented artists is truly humbling, and I can't wait to find out the results on March 28th. The Biz Bubble Awards celebrate the incredible creativity and innovation of businesses and being nominated in the Traditional Skills category means a lot. At Morgan + Wells, we're passionate about keeping these time-honoured techniques alive while adding a modern twist. Sending Out Positive Vibes! While nervously awaiting the results, I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude. Thank you to everyone who has supported the journey so far! Whether you've purchased a piece, or shared my work with others, or simply offered words of encouragement, your support means the world. Exciting news, art enthusiasts! York Open Studios is just around the corner, and Morgan + Wells is gearing up to showcase a whole range of handstitched goods and a collection of new pieces. This week has been a whirlwind of preparation, and I'm thrilled to share the buzz with you! As many of you know, York Open Studios is a celebrated annual event where artists across the city open their studios to the public. It's a fantastic opportunity to meet the makers firsthand, witness the creative process, and discover one-of-a-kind artwork. I'm particularly excited to announce that Morgan + Wells has been featured in both The Yorkshire Post and Yorkshire Life Magazine alongside other talented artists participating in the event. This recognition is truly humbling, and I can't wait to welcome visitors to Venue 26 with the gloriously talented Marco Looks and share my latest creations.. What to Expect at Morgan + Wells: While we can't reveal all our surprises just yet, here's a taste of what you can expect at Venue 26 during York Open Studios: A showcase of brand new work: I've been a busy bee in the workshop, and I'm excited to unveil a collection of fresh pieces. A glimpse into the creative process: Get a behind-the-scenes look at hand stitching and witness my pieces coming to life. The opportunity to chat about my work: I'd love to meet you in person, answer your questions, and discuss my passion for art. Mark Your Calendars! Don't miss this chance to experience the vibrant art scene of York and discover the unique creations of Morgan + Wells. Open Studios runs over two weekends: -Sat 13th April/ Sun 14th April - Sat 20th April / Sun 21st April Venues are open 10:00 - 17:00 each day and can all be found here in the online directory. Stay tuned for further updates! We all look forward to seeing you at York Open Studios! Follow us on social media or visit our website for the latest information. In the meantime, feel free to leave a comment below and tell us what kind of art you're most excited to see and who you've circled! References: https://www.yorkshirelifemagazine.co.uk/app/YORCOM https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/arts-and-culture/art/york-open-studios-your-chance-to-get-up-close-to-the-work-of-yorkshires-artists-4565331

Embarking on the journey of being a self-employed leatherworker has been a venture filled with passion, creativity, and the pursuit for craftsmanship. As an artisan, every piece crafted becomes a unique expression of dedication and skill, alongside learning and head scratching. In this blog post, I'll delve into the world of self-employment in the realm of leather crafting, exploring the challenges, joys, and the artistry that comes with being your own boss. Crafting a Dream: The Path to Self-Employment Becoming a self-employed leatherworker often begins with a deep love for the craft, I myself fell in love after attending a 3-day course and now it's almost an addiction, I love going into my workshop and closing the door. Many artisans, like myself, find themselves drawn to the tactile nature of leather, the traditional techniques, and the prospect of creating something lasting and meaningful. The decision to turn this passion into a business is a leap of faith, driven by a desire for independence and a commitment to one's artistic vision. The Creative Sanctuary: Crafting in Your Own Space One of the perks of being a self-employed leatherworker is the ability to design and work in a space that resonates with your creativity. Whether it's a small studio, a garage workshop, or even a corner of your living room, this space becomes a sanctuary where ideas come to life. My small workshop is chaotic but I know exactly where every rivet, thread and tool is. I love the flexibility I have to organise and personalise my workspace and I'm guessing this is a freedom cherished by many self-employed artisans. The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Balancing Craftsmanship and Business While the core of being a leatherworker is the craft itself, the reality of self-employment involves wearing multiple hats. From marketing and customer relations to financial management, the entrepreneurial spirit becomes a crucial companion. Navigating the delicate balance between maintaining artistic integrity and running a successful business is an ongoing challenge that shapes the journey of every self-employed leatherworker. I've recently invested in a vintage Pfaff sewing machine to be able to run off wholesale orders. This was a big decision to make as I've hand sewn everything for 10 years and I still want to maintain that at the core of my business but it's now about expanding yet keeping the quality of my products high. You find yourself always working, but when it's a way of life rather than a job it's not so much of a chore! Challenges and Triumphs: The Rollercoaster of Self-Employment Being your own boss is a double-edged sword. Challenges such as market competition, managing finances, and maintaining a consistent flow of orders can be daunting. However, the triumphs that come with creating a unique brand, seeing satisfied customers, and achieving financial independence make the journey incredibly rewarding. Every hurdle becomes a lesson, and every success a testament to perseverance (of my family mainly!). Community and Connection: The Heartbeat of Craftsmanship While the life of a self-employed leatherworker may seem solitary, the community plays a vital role. Networking with fellow artisans, engaging with customers, and participating in craft fairs or online platforms such as Pedddle create a sense of connection. Sharing experiences, learning from others, and building a customer base are crucial elements that contribute to the longevity of a self-made leatherworking business. I'm delighted this year to be involved in York Open Studios and I can't wait to show what's involved in my job but also to meet new (and old) members of the community . Being a self-employed leatherworker is a dynamic journey that intertwines creativity, entrepreneurship, and a deep love for craftsmanship. As an artisan, every stitch, cut, and design tells a story. For those with a love for the craft, self-employment becomes not just a job but a way of life—a life dedicated to the art of shaping leather into timeless creations.

A Fashion Journey Introduction In the ever-evolving world In the ever-evolving world of fashion, some trends come and go, but certain styles stand the test of time. Round bags, with their timeless allure and versatile designs, have captivated the hearts of fashion enthusiasts for decades. In this blog, we'll take you on a fascinating journey through the history of round bags, exploring their evolution from ancient cultures to modern runways. Discover the charm of round bags and why they remain a must-have accessory for every fashionista. And as you delve into their rich history, consider embracing this classic style with our exquisite collection of round leather bags, meticulously crafted to add a touch of elegance to your wardrobe. The Origins: Round Bags Through the Ages Round bags have a history that spans centuries and cultures. In ancient times, circular pouches were used by various civilizations, including the Egyptians and Greeks, to carry precious belongings. These early round bags, often adorned with intricate designs and symbols, were a symbol of status and sophistication. The Renaissance and Victorian Era: Round Bags as Fashion Statements During the Renaissance, round bags became popular among European aristocrats. Crafted from luxurious materials and embellished with jewels and embroidery, these bags were not just functional but also symbols of wealth and fashion prowess. In the Victorian era, round bags, often referred to as reticules, gained prominence among women. Delicately handcrafted and adorned with lace and silk, these bags were essential accessories for the fashionable ladies of the time. The Roaring Twenties: Round Bags and Art Deco Elegance The 1920s witnessed the rise of Art Deco, an artistic movement that celebrated geometric shapes and intricate patterns. Round bags, with their sleek designs and bold embellishments, perfectly embodied the spirit of this era. Flappers and socialites embraced these stylish round purses, making them a staple in the glamorous Jazz Age fashion scene. Modern Revival: Round Bags in Contemporary Fashion In recent decades, round bags have made a triumphant comeback on the fashion scene. Designers and fashion houses have reimagined these classic accessories, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. The versatility of round bags has endeared them to fashion influencers and celebrities, making them a coveted item in every fashionista’s collection. Embrace Timeless Elegance with Our Round Leather Bags At Morgan + Wells, we celebrate the enduring charm of round bags and are one of th favourite style to make. Our bags blend classic elegance with contemporary style. Each piece is designed to complement a variety of outfits, from casual to sophisticated evening wear. The history of round bags is a testament to their enduring appeal and versatility. From ancient civilizations to contemporary runways, these bags have stood the test of time, making them a timeless addition to any wardrobe. Embrace the elegance of round and circular bags with our exclusive collection at www.morganandwells.co.uk.

The changing seasons bring about an array of colourful transformations in the natural world. As the temperatures begin to drop and the leaves start to change, we often seek out new colours and textures to keep up with the evolving trends. One trend that remains steadfast in the fashion world, especially during autumn and winter months, is the use of leather in various shades and hues. During the autumn and winter seasons, we see a lot of darker colours in clothing and accessories. This is no different when it comes to leather goods. Darker colours such as black, brown, and deep burgundy are often the go-to colours for leather. These tones complement the rich and bold colours of the season. Of course, there are always some colours that transcend the changing seasons such as classic tan, versatile grey, and sophisticated navy. These colours work well all year-round and can easily enhance any outfit. They are timeless shades that are worth investing in. Overall, the changing seasons bring about a change in fashion and leather colours are certainly no exception. The right colour leather can add a sophisticated touch to any outfit. Whether it's a dark leather jacket in the fall or a lighter beige suede bag in the spring, leather is an essential accessory that can elevate any look. As we look ahead to winter 2023, there are several exciting leather bag trends that are expected to make a statement. Here are some key trends to watch out for: Oversized Totes: Roomy and practical, oversized tote bags are set to be a popular choice for winter 20231. These large bags not only offer plenty of space for all your essentials but also make a bold fashion statement. Circular Mini Bags: Adding a touch of whimsy to your winter outfits, circular mini bags are expected to be a hit in 20231. These compact bags with their unique shape can add a fun and playful element to any ensemble. Bold Colours: Don't be afraid to embrace vibrant and bold colours for your leather bags this winter1. Red, in particular, is predicted to be a standout shade, with designers incorporating striking red elements and combining them with gold details1. Chain-Handle Bags: Chain handles add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any bag. They are anticipated to be a popular feature in winter 2023 leather bags, offering a stylish and chic look2. Fuzzy Handbags: For those looking to add some texture to their winter wardrobe, fur bags are a must-have trend for 20233. These cozy and stylish handbags are perfect for staying warm while making a fashion statement. As fashion trends can vary, it's important to choose a bag style that suits your personal taste and lifestyle. Whether you opt for an oversized tote, a circular mini bag, or a bag in a bold colour, make sure it complements your winter outfits and reflects your individual style. Sources: Source: SACLÀB - The 6 Bag Trends Winter 2023 You Need to Know ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 Source: Vogue - Autumn/Winter 2023 Bag Trends ↩ Source: Cosmopolitan - Winter 2022 2023 Hand Bag Trends ↩ Guys, guys, guys ..... wrap up this autumn. According to recent fashion forecasts, there are several key leather trends that you can expect to see for men's winter fashion in 202312. One trend is an emphasis on sustainable materials, which includes vegetable-tanned leather, as environmentally friendly fashion becomes increasingly popular1. Designers are expected to continue to integrate texture and color, with brown and natural leather, in particular, being very popular1. In terms of style, the leather jacket is expected to be a major trend for 2023, alongside leather shirts, trench coats, and blazers2. All forms of leather outerwear are likely to be very popular for winter fashion, as they provide warmth and protection from the elements, while still looking stylish and sophisticated. When it comes to design, minimalism, and clean lines are likely to be a significant trend, although bolder and more daring designs might also be in demand2. Studded leather jackets, textured leather shirts, and sleek leather blazers are all expected to be major fashion trends for men's winter fashion in 2023. Overall, there is a clear emphasis on high-quality materials, attention to detail, and minimalism in men's winter leather trends for 202312. So drop me an email to get kitted out! Sources: Madden, K. "Everything You Need to Know About Men's Winter Fashion in 2023." Men's Flair, 14 Dec. 2022, https://mensflair.com/mens-winter-fashion/. ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 "Men's Fashion Trends Guide Fall/Winter 2023-2024." Vogue Paris, 22 Mar. 2023, https://www.vogue.fr/article/mens-fashion-trends-guide-fall-winter-2023-2024. ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4

Don't get caught out: There are a lot of tricks out there that mass produced leather goods manufacturers use to make you think you're buying quality goods! Tip #1 - Don't get sucked in by branding Those immaculate bags lined up on a shelf in a high end store......beware! Yes, there are a lot of fine leather goods producers out there but there are a lot of tricksters! Some bags which look like leather and cost £2000 are, in fact, just painted canvas covered in logos and they're not even leather. So STOP. Ask yourself does it smell like leather, move like leather, feel like leather? If it doesn't shout out leather straight away, walk away. Tip #2 - Made with real leather Even if a tiny portion of the bag or wallet is made with leather stores can say it's "Made with Real Leather". Some wallet even just have leather labels and the rest is printed plastic made to look like leather. They can use the phrase "Made with leather" when in fact it's just leather dust glued together with a polyurethane binder (bonded leather) and plated flat. The fibres are then rolled together and backed onto a paper with adhesive. They get even tricker .... they can plate it with a leather texture to add that well loved leather look to your bag, making your job even harder. If any leather bag costs less than £40 you really do need to stop and think, is this quality leather or dust! No one wants their £2000 bag breaking down and releasing the bonding chemicals, cracking or peeling do they? Bonded leather is made up of scrap leather and polyurethane. Tip #3 - Buy Full Grain Essentially there are two layers of leather to gen up on for now. Full grain (upper most surface) is the highest quality leather and the most expensive because they haven't removed the top surface of the leather, which is the strongest layer. It WILL have imperfections. Full grain leather will have bug bite marks, scratches and scars where the animal has lived and had a good scratch on a tree. A lot of manufacturers don't like this because their bags won't look uniform on the shelf and if they were to cut around it, they'd leave a lot of waste. Equally in our perfect society, buyers think that this imperfect surface means that the leather is of a poor quality - when in fact it's totally the opposite. Character = quality and strength. Next up and below Full Grain you get Top Grain (snuffled or corrected grain) and genuine leather - these have had the top layer removed to make it prettier and more uniform. Manufacturers like working with this cheaper hide, because ....erm ...it's cheaper and as mentioned above they can emboss textures and patterns into the leather to make it, bizarrely, look like leather again, but more importantly ... uniform. Don't get me wrong, it's not terrible leather it's just not as durable or authentic as Full Grain leather. If you're paying full grain prices, make sure you get full grain! Tip #4 - Strap and belt stitching If you see machine stitching running on both sides of a strap or a belt..... take heed! This 'decoration' is often disguising a strengthener inside because the leather is either poor quality or not even leather at all. Either that, or they've glued two very thin sheets of leather either side of some cork, bonded leather or fabric. That way they can call it real leather but only the outer surfaces are indeed that. And yes, I've cut open a "genuine leather" belt from a well-know high street store to find fabric inside. Tip #5 - Painted edges Are the edges painted with rubberised plastic? This is the cheapest way to get a good finish, and by cheap in the leather world that generally means quickest. As above, it is also is a super slick way at disguising the fact your solid, one piece leather belt .... is in fact multiple layers and only 20% leather. Not all plastic edges mean doom though but it's a pretty good starting point to eliminate the tat out there. Real leather, and I mean real here, can be burnished by friction. Burnishing with beeswax is the traditional way to smooth an edge, adding an element of waterproofing to the edge as well. It will not look as immaculate as a painted edge but then a burnished edge has nothing to hide and is celebrating the fact it's 100% leather. Tip #6 - Faux and the environment My final tip. OK so I get that people want to have an alternative option but if you think faux is better for the then environment then you'll need to do some research first. In a very small nutshell, faux leather comes in a range of alternatives, bamboo, pineapples, apples, leaves, mushrooms BUT they're pretty much bonded with polyurethane, aka PLASTIC (PU biodegradability 20-200 years). As far as my research goes, cork is the most sustainable of the faux leather options. If you want to buy something which is biodegradable and natural buy real leather (0.05-45 years biodegradability) or cotton (1-5 months). For faux - go cork as it's antimicrobial, anti-allergenic and unlike plastic and other materials, cork is naturally both water and stain resistant. . So shop knowledgeably folks Hopefully this has been a useful blog post so you can shop wisely and avoid the pitfalls many high streets love to put out there for their own financial benefit. If you've any questions on something you've seen do drop me a message and I'll do my best to answer. Take care and have an excellent weekend.

The nights are drawing in but what sort of autumnal style do you go for? Are you ready to get Hygge (pronounced hoo-ga.. if you were wondering!) and snuggle down with a knitted jumper and a hot chocolate, or are you looking forward to getting spooky and embracing all things Halloween? Well, as we start to embrace autumn and all of it's turning colours, woodfire smells and cooler air, there's no better time to get your home cozy and decorated as we start to spend more time indoors. Here's our top suggestions for getting Hygge..... Cozy down with a good book. Grab a gripping novel and get under your favourite blanket (even better if your Grandma made it!) Why not combine Halloween and read some old classics like Dracula, Frankenstein or Jekyll and Hyde, you may not want to leave that blanket! Candles for the mind. Did you know that the Danish have more candles per household than any other European country and they are renowned for their relatively stress-free lives? Candles are proven to positively affect our mood through the power of scent and smell, they can induce calm and help to alleviate symptoms of stress, with the ability to lower cortisol. Time to find the matches and turn the lights off. Enjoy a honey spiced latte. Why not stock up on all the ingredients to make this delicious latte. Pop on your favourite record, yes the vinyl time, and appreciate just 10 minutes of "you" time. Here's the recipe in case you are in the mood brew up now.... https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/honey-spiced-latte/ Here's our top suggestions for getting spooky..... Go for the ghouls...... Our leather ghost garland will bring a touch of spooky sophistication to your home and with enough plastic floating around our planet, those plastic decorations need to become a thing of the past. Our York ghost decoration is completely plastic-free (very Hygge!) and is easy to store away so it won't take up much room in your home. Get batty...... Associated with words such as nocturnal, death and darkness ....... these creatures are often portrayed in a dark way. "They engage in mysterious activities in the dark and so they have been cloaked in superstition since ancient times,” Stanford University classics scholar Adrienne Mayor told National Geographic. As I personally get eaten alive by mosquitos, these flying mozzie-snacking mammals are welcome in my back garden any time, even at Halloween! Creepy cocktails If you've got a glut of apples this year, now is the time to press and bottle them ready for those bonfire mulled ciders, cheeky spiced apple cocktails or a delicious warming honey and apple juice. If you don't have your own press then see if you can find a local juice company who will do it for you, like the lovely people at Yorkshire Wolds Apple Juice Co.

So it's that time of year when weddings hit the calendar. Either you're involved with the couples planning and arranging, or you need to think of a suitable wedding gift for the newly weds as a guest. Well, here's our top tips for making your wedding gift extra special and to make sure you gift stands out on the big day. Personalise it So whether it's for your Best Man/ Person, the Father of the Bride, the Father of the Groom or for the Bridesmaids, you really can't go wrong with a beautiful, personalised leather wallet or purse. Personalising the gift with their initials or nickname just adds that extra thoughtful touch, something only an independent store can offer you. Theme it Be ahead of the game and theme your gift o the wedding mood board. If they're going bling, a touch of gold on your gift just shows you've given their gift some thought. If it's on the coast how about one of our Yorkshire Moors inspired wallets with a seaside colour palette! Follow it Follow the couple's registry of gifts / wedding gift list if you can and don't be afraid to go off spec (if you know them REALLY well) and have something unique made or created for them. If they ask for cash towards the honeymoon why not wrap it up in a bespoke passport wallet or travel document folio; the best of both worlds. Commission It If you have a theme or colour pallet in mind, don't forget we do commissions at Morgan + Wells, so we can accommodate your needs. Pink, fairy, Viking ... you name it, we can create a bespoke wedding gift for you! Wrap It The extra touches like beautiful wrapping and hand-tied ribbons are easily forgotten. More often than not, people are so caught up on remembering to take the actual gift along with them and a petrol station gift bag becomes a last minute realisation on the drive to the wedding! At Morgan + Wells we offer a free gift wrapping service and all items come in either monogrammed tissue paper, grosgrain ribbon and for larger items, a monogrammed canvas bag. Complimentary gift tags are added to all items. We can of course add extra hearts if you let us know it's a wedding gift, so let us do the beautiful packaging for you and you can get to the Pimms bar earlier!

Find local, creative markets near you and discover stallholders across the UK. OK so the weather is warming up, people are starting to go out and they are looking for social events now that we can go out after these 2 hard years. If you love a good market, and lets face it, who doesn't, then you'll love Pedddle! Simply pop over to their website and you can search for creative markets in your area, or if you're on holiday why not check out what's happening locally. If you're looking to shop online (and are fed up, like I am, that Etsy is letting mass produced tat in now!), then you can also scroll through the fabulous stores to pick up a handcrafted item from the hand selected shops. They all scream quality and gorgeousness! And when you find shops you like, simply click on it and add it to your very own favourites area so it's easy to find them again. Don't forget to give us a favourite too, (we're here wooohoo https://pedddle.com/stalls/morgan-wells/) and then when we're off to market, or are taking part in a Pedddle event, you'll be the first to know. Tell all your friends - it's a new, totally exciting and we LOVE being part of it.

It's not long now until Mother's Day and we've got a whole host of new products in for those special women in your life. Here's some beautiful suggestions for you and don't forget we gift wrap all orders for you to save you the job. The Sparkly Mum Our Barafundle leather pouch is perfect as a purse but it can also be used to pop in a selection of make up brushes, pencils for the artist, a sewing kit or even those handy bits at the bottom of their bags! The Funky Mum Our new Elizabeth phone pouch is becoming a fast favourite at Morgan + Wells HQ! This trending pouch is a quick fire way to modernise your accessories and looks fabulous with all wardrobe staples, a simple Breton top or maxi dress. Currently available in store in this beautiful postbox red but I also have the following combinations on the work bench: black with mock croc, tan and yellow bubble and brown and tan. Message me for any you may be interested in. The Book Club Mum Why not personalise your very own Süskind bookmark to make your gift extra special? In a range of complimentary colours and we also have foil embossing available if you'd like to bling it up too! Pair it with a novel and a bottle of wine and you'll be in their good books! House proud Mum Who doesn't love a good brew? Here's our lovely set of three Alentejo geometric leather coasters to brighten up any coffee table, making a real statement in any room. The luxurious leather from the famous Conceria Walpier Tannery in Tuscany, will turn heads and smells divine. Why not gift them alongside a tea or coffee hamper, including some good old Yorkshire Parkin cake?! Yum! The Organised Mum Our beautiful Salcombe bridle leather Filofax will be ideal for a Mum on the go, a Mum juggling jobs and childcare (you know the score!). This A5 journal has been hand cut, hand stitched in a contrasting red thread and comes with an elasticated closure and handy pen holder, you can keep all of your documents and diary in one place. Double Mums When you've got the best of both Mum's and can't decide what to get each of them why not double up with our keyring. Our Pampas keyring is cut from a beautiful straw vegetable tanned leather. It's 100% chemical free. The slimline brass split ring gives it a modern finish and the solid brass Sam Browne stud can be popped open to attach it to your bag, belt loop or coat. The Super Mum For the Mum who deserves an extra special treat this year, you can't really go wrong with our buttery Oldstead leather tote bag. Hand cut from a naturally soft, full grain Italian leather. Designed to be worn on the shoulder or high up across the body. The handstitched, internal pouch pocket is handy for your phone or keys. This modern tote will lend itself to any stylish outfit; from cool, city boho to stripped back minimalist. If you have any questions or would like to commission anything please drop us an email and we'll be right back.

So after a refreshing festive period we're back. A lovely family time was had at chez M+W's with all the family and then the cobwebs were certainly blown away (as was our breath at certain points) with a New Year celebrated on the beach at Bigbury-on-Sea. We've never tackled this massive drive before, let along with a baby but it was well worth it. The endless skies, (something we don't get in York with it being so flat), beach games, mermaid art and of course as little tipple or two for the big people! We hope you've all had a wonderful break too and are ready to grasp 2022 with both hands. I'm also going to pull my socks up a bit and try to get a few more blogs in this year, so if there's anything you'd like to read about leatherwork do drop me an email and I'll try to cover it. Anyway Valentine's Day is around the corner and I've got a fab red crossbody bag to finish stitching and a few little trinkets to sew, so I better be off. Catch you all soon. Naomi x

So after a little bit of time off to expand the waistline and then family, it's been a busy old time in Chez M+W! It's been a delightful time getting to chill with the new addition, especially with the summer we've had but it's also really exciting to be back in the workshop and at our favourite time of the year too. Those long summer walks and family holidays have also led to some new designs, colours and textures and we can't wait to get them all in the store for you. So whilst the new edition slept (and I was allowed to work some maternity leave KIT days!) we were delighted to be invited to work on the leatherwork again for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the London Palladium. We really enjoy this work, the wardrobe team are fabulous and every design is stunningly different. If you'd have told me 30 years ago (whilst watching Neighbours!) that I'd be making a gold Pharaoh's collar for Jason Donovan I'd have laughed in disbelief!! And with the gorgeous colours of autumn upon us, it's time to hunker down, get creative and to conjure up some new designs for you all. Our new Yorkshire wallet collection is already up in the store so do pop over and take a look. These are inspired by the beautiful Yorkshire countryside and industrial heritage we visited this year; with bifolds, card slips and wrap wallets there is something for everyone. We've also added some hair on hide purses, metallic drop earrings and coming very soon are some, hot off the press, postbox DIY purse kits! With that all in mind I best get an early night! Thanks for reading and please do follow us on Instagram or Facebook for the release dates of our new products and what we get up to in the workshop. Take Care x

So it's started!!! I've already had an influx of festive shoppers looking for that something special this Christmas. It's heartening to know that after the year everyone's had people are choosing to shop at small, indie stores and supporting small businesses. In fact it's more important than ever before that people choose to shop local. The in-person markets, small stockists and fairs have almost, if not all, been stopped dead in their tracks with only a handful opening on the same terms as at the start of the year. Artists, artisans, crafters and makers have found their normal outlets diminished and their need for new stock, understandably, minimal. So online sales and a social media presence has become the main priority for many small businesses. Many an hour has been spent posting and learning about Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Tik Tok etc. And now they bring out Instagram Reels....oh pass the wine! Online markets like Pedddle and Etsy have had to be creative and consider how artists, who normally sell face-to-face at markets, are now shifting to online markets. They have been the saving grace for many businesses and the camaraderie this year has been something special. Essentially it's like attending a market but you don't have to get out of your PJ's or bed! Makers are on hand to ask questions, there are demonstrations and live events for people to take part in too. All of these small businesses and markets are now heading into the busiest time of the year, so what can you do to shop local and support small businesses. (Pictured: Sheila's Greengrocers, Rose & Hen, Henshelwoods come to the rescue during 2020) First and foremost do support them on social media channels. For some it's their only voice right now so follow them, like their posts and drop a comment no matter how short. If anything it just makes them feel they're doing a great job and that they are appreciated. Buy from small businesses, the big boys have already had their pockets lined this year and that just gets spent on jets, tropical islands and fat pay cheques. When you shop small you're paying for people to live and support their families! When you have bought something drop a little review or an email, again no matter how short, to the maker. Products and service reviews are notoriously hard to get (you'd be suprised!) A lovely review might be the last thing someone is looking for before they commit to buying and they can be worth their weight in gold. Pop in your diary online market dates, make a brew and set the kids off with some lego! I've been really impressed with the quality of products I've bought this year at online markets and you get a lovely warm glow when you unwrap it, knowing I've made the buyer do a little happy dance (yes we all do it!) Also they tend to do discounts for the duration of the market so it's a win win situation. So here at Morgan + Wells it's been no stop since the little one started full time school. Who knew there were so many hours in the day, not just post cover lockdown (1!!) but during a school day?! It's been fabulous to get really stuck in and for the first time since the business started, having a proper working day and all. There are still evenings to work and social media posts at random times for the US market but I'm loving it. Brand new in and selling really well (only 1 left now!) are the Haworth soft calf wraps, for artists, writers, tool users and make up artists alike. Next up are the Riptide card and note holders, in a vegetable tanned leather which is twisted by hand to get the pattern. how ace is that?! I'll just leave you with the super cute Bow Peep bow cuff, it is time to bling up a bit after all. Here's a few of my favourite small businesses right now to start you off on your road to awesomeness, festive (done all my shopping already) smugness and warm autumnal bellies. Jane the Potter - Pottery Yorkshire Wolds Apple Juice - Juices Sheila's Greengrocers - Fruit and Veg Rose & Hen - Cards and Prints Metropolitan Leather - Leather Henshelwoods - Deli 52 Broadway - Cakes Dawn Reader - Paintings Community Clothing - Clothing The Hairy Fig - Deli Scamp & Dude - Clothing Winstons of York - Clothing Made in Oldstead - Premium food box Theolyn's - Toy Shop

We're thrilled to be joining up with the Village Doorstep which supports local shops on your Doorstep. There's some beautiful goodies to get your hands on including the delicious Yorkshire Wold Juice, Yorkshire Heart Brewery and Pucketts Pickles. So if you're after asparagus, local ale, gin or a bike clinic it's the place to go. We're also joining up with Support York an initiative to support local businesses in York. You can find anything from computer services, to cakes and family solicitors so it's well worth a look. As we're all pretty much staying at home for the time being you can even donate your commute to a local charity! How cool is that?!

This Sunday we're taking part in the Pedddle Random Act of Kindness online market, where you can shop from small businesses, with all gifts priced between £5 and £25. The stallholders will gift wrap whatever you buy with a lovely note and send it directly to someone you love. Make someone's day with a Random Act of Kindness, whether you want to tell your mum how much you miss hugging her, you want to cheer up a neighbour or say hello to a friend. Head over to Pedddle to find out more: https://pedddle.com/markets/random-acts-of-kindness-market/ #ShopLocal #ShopIndependent #ShopSmall #IndieBusiness

Take the stress out of Christmas with these top tips, ideas and suggestions in our Christmas Survival Guide. CHRISTMAS SURVIVAL GUIDE Here's your chance to grab a few tips and ideas for an easy Christmas from some brilliant businesses. C - Colour . Clothes . Confidence. Ensure your clothes for the festive season are ready to party! Top Tip: Plan your wardrobe now. http://www.jackiecrawford.co.uk/ H- Handmade wooden toys. Will keep little hands busy for hours! Designed for little hands but big imaginations. https://www.facebook.com/littlepipiras R - Ready and Wrapped All Morgan + Wells fine leather goods come gift wrapped with free UK postage so it’s one less job for you! www.morganandwells.co.uk I - Icing on the Cake. Don’t pretend your’e going to enjoy baking a cake and then decorating exactly like the one you’ve seen in your magazine, let the professionals do it while you spend time with the family. The Sugar Florist Artisan Bakery https://www.facebook.com/claire.marshall.9216 S - Shopping. Instead of hitting the stressful big shops, why not try a local market or two? Find your nearest market via the brilliant Pedddle website which lists hundreds of local markets brimming with locally made, beautiful gifts. https://pedddle.com T - Trafalgar Bay in York A brilliant spot for your works do with free room hire, games, crafts, Mocktails, Cocktails & Cockt-ales for your bespoke Christmas Party. Take the train there and everyone can fully enjoy the City! https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Pub/Trafalgar-Bay-202274890369500/ M - Make Goals Book onto this brilliant workshop on 16th December and learn how to restore calm at Christmas and avoid overwhelm. This 3 hour evening workshop will work on your business intentions for 2020, set some powerful goals and put some actions plans in place and set you up for an amazing start to 2020 so you can relax in safe in the knowledge that you're already set up to smash the new year. https://www.thecreativebloom.com/product-page/your-business-2020-workshop?fbclid=IwAR1pD93cxodChTJGpyR_HxIk_vbz5L-kB9fmtxB29Pn7WCNLRDHpMaiGCNQ A - Avoid the January rush. Clear your head and accounts before the Christmas holidays. Take the stress of getting your accounts ready for self assessment tax submission by your accountant. http://www.myvirtualpersonalassistant.co.uk S - Stress relief with Hypnotherapy. Find your calm within the storm, let go of the stress and anxiety and enjoy a festive break without the fracas! Hypnosis is the perfect way to find the best you possible and enjoy a calm Christmas and a positive start to 2020. https://angela-milburn-wellness-therapist.business.site/ S - Snapped. Give the gift of cherished memories with your loved ones and for yourself. A great present if you missed the last postal date too. www.cathieheart.com U - Ukulele CD - try some local music this Christmas instead of Slade) to warm your cockles and get you in the mood. From festive concerts to their brilliant Christmas CD. www.grandoldukeofyork.com R - for Relaxation, Rejuvenating, Revitalising and for my name too, Renni. It is so important to take time for yourself, especially in the run up to Christmas. I make sure that the treatments I offer (Facial Massage, Reflexology, Head-and Shoulder Massage) will make you feel calm and relaxed. After all, Christmas is about slowing down and enjoying the quieter life...but that is easier said than done. http://www.renniprelle.co.uk V - Voucher. Naomi runs group glass fusing lessons from her home in York and you can give someone a glass fusing lesson voucher. A great gift for someone who would enjoy 2 hours of learning a new craft. Vouchers can be sent by email, so available last minute. £20 for adults and £12 for kids (age 4+). Email: naomi@naomisglass.co.uk http://www.naomisglass.co.uk I - Image & Colour Analysis Gift Vouchers. Take the stress away from gifting and give the gift of colour. Knowing your best colours can take the stress out of what to wear, what accessories to compliment and makeup shades to bring out that inner sparkle. http://MamaLippys.com/ V - Voucher to Sleep. Make sure you top up your sleep when you can. Get the best quality sleep with some fabulous Sleep Better Kits which have 4 items to help you improve your night-time routine (plus a set of 14 tried and tested tips for better sleep). £35 from http://www.yorkmassage.com/ A - Acupuncture. It’s so easy to become overwhelmed over the Christmas period and self care can drop to the bottom of the To Do list. This might mean those headaches, migraines, back pain, PMS symptoms rear their irritating heads.. Acupuncture will relieve stress and restore balance ensuring you can enjoy your time with family and friends. http://Www.AnneGledhill-Myhill.com L - Love. Remember a simple home made gift or even a cuddle encompasses the meaning of Christmas. Show those around you how much you love them and to take time to look after yourself too. G - Gift from the Heart. Thoughtfulness is one of the greatest gifts you can give. It says more about you and how you feel about someone when you gift something simple and you have put your heart into it, a gin lover may like the perfect glass, a candle lover the perfect home made candles, or it maybe tea for two in someone's favourite tea shop. Gifts don't have to be expensive, but given with heartfelt love will always win the day. http://www.megmuir.co.uk/ U - Under the Sofa hoovered? Sit down, get a coffee and let someone else do a luxury deep clean before the family come round and you have to move the sofa to find the dice! https://www.facebook.com/Jenselitecleaning/ I - Indie York. Support your local Independent shops which may be tucked away down a side street or trade online. Indie York is a great starting place to find such places in York. https://www.indieyork.co.uk D - Deep Relaxation. Deborah offers Reflexology, Massage and Aromatherapy Massage to help you relax, release and restore and take away some of the stress that can build up at this time of year. http://www.debbiethurlow.com/ E - Energy. Calm or energise yourself and those around you with a selection of crystals placed around the house, or on your person. Choose your ideal selection from www.thecrystalbuddha.com/

Some of you may have noticed, (after a summer of me going on about it!), that we were selected to produce a range of leather goods for the brand new Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the London Palladium this summer. We have been giddy about it ever since and I thought it was about time to sit and reflect on the amazing experience. Firstly what an honour to even be asked and secondly....how were we going to do it? After a couple of months working 10-15 hour days, lots of coffee, excessive head scratching, a new member of the team (Barbara the mannequin) - Team M+W managed to complete over 40 different belts, harnesses and gauntlets. All hand stitched, with both real and fake fastenings and fully adjustable for dress fittings and also for quick changes! Each item then needed a black and white version making for a particular section of the show; the very hot summer paid off for the drying department but we had very black finger nails for a few weeks! One very clever twist in the production was the inclusion of the children as main characters, so Barbara had to lose quite a bit of weight over the weeks and then put it all back on again as and when required! We also had to make items look worn and so it took a while to get used to not finishing edges or cutting off parts of the leather we'd normally avoid. Everything had to look distressed, biblical and this was tough, especially when you normally have to keep everything pristine and clean cut. Character was EVERYTHING! The design and the colours of the show were a joy to work with and being sent over the original drawings to work off was at first daunting but we then got into the swing of things. We worked closely with the fabulous costume team (we have no idea how they put so many costumes together!) to make sure the sizes could be adapted and we also had to consider which items needed a very quick change or if they were to be danced in. Everything was taken to London for the dress rehearsals; the parcel was not let go of at any point on that journey I can tell you! Opening night approached and even from a distance it was nerve wrecking so you can only imagine how tense and immense Press Night was - we just crossed everything as we sat in our seats with a gin! It was just an incredible night! Jac Yarrow, as Joseph, got a standing ovation in the middle of the first act for over 3 minutes and boy did he deserve it. Sheridan Smith as the Narrator and Jason Donovan were phenomenal as you'd imagine; there were proud tears all round. Just to top it all off, Lord Andrew Webber and Sir Tim Rice made an appearance at the end congratulating the cast and crew. So it's been a groundbreaking summer for us at Morgan + Wells, we would never have thought that we'd do anything like this and it's even more unbelievable to even see your work on the stage of The London Palladium - we are just so, so lucky and honoured. So, if you didn't manage to grab a ticket for the sold out 2019 run, do not worry - it's back again for more Technicolor bliss in 2020.

We all know how important it is to support our local independent shops, especially during the Christmas period. So here is our A-Z Gift Guide of what's hot this Christmas and of course...... from York! A - is for ABC. The gift of Languages - gift vouchers available to inspire your little ones to love learning languages. www.kidslingo.co.uk B - is for Beauty. Giving you the confidence to sparkle! Treat yourself to a little pamper amongst the festive madness. MamaLippys.com C - is for Chocolates. Handmade made with all natural ingredients and sustainably sourced cocoa. Https://butterflieschocolates.co.uk D - is for Dungarees. Dress those little people in your lives in something unique and funky, available from Boo's Bunny with lots of other handmade clothing too. E - is for Elves. The Elves Store where you can create your own little family - elf style! F - is for Family. Capture your family with a stunning photo shoot by Andrea at Pink Lily Photograpy. https://www.pinklilyphotography.co.uk G - is for Garage. Stay safe this winter and get your winter check booked in at the family run North Yorkshire Motors. https://www.northyorkshiremotors.co.uk H - is for Healing. Look after yourself and your family with a whole range of healing from crystals to tarot at NRG Healing. https://www.nrghealing.co.uk I - is for Internet Safety. Book lessons for all those devices children get at Christmas before they go online. www.gowiseonline.co.uk J - is for Juice. Apple juice, traditionally made, perfect as it is or spiced and mulled for that extra festive taste (available from Yorkshire Wolds Apple Juice. www.yorkshirewoldsapplejuice.co.uk K - is for Kinesiology. Give someone you love the gift that keeps on giving, the gift of well-being. clairecutlercasey.WordPress.com L - is for Leather. Modern leather goods handmade in York using traditional techniques. Why not commission a special gift, personalise an item or treat the dog to a new collar this Christmas. Take a look at the stunning Morgan + Wells online store www.morganandwells.co.uk and do pop over to the Pedddle Online Christmas Market that we're part of on the 28th November 2019. https://pedddle.com/stalls/morgan-wells/ M - is for Massage. The gift of ‘me-time’ to focus on relaxation and wellbeing. Treatments are tailored to individual need; whether it be soothing stress, unknotting tension, addressing specific aches and pains or specialist pregnancy massage. www.bespokebotanicals.co.uk N - is for Note Books. Inserts and planners and faux leather traveler notebook covers to hold them in from creative Dotty Ella. https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/DottyElla. O - is for Organic. Organic Christmas veg and more, delivered from our farms to your door. https://www.riverford.co.uk/yor/ P - is for Photoshoot. A timeless gift that keeps giving and who’s value increases. Super relaxed portrait photo shoots around Yorkshire, with Lucy White photography. www.lucywhitephotography.com Q - is for Quick Manicure. With Oh My Gosh! Nail polish strips. The new dry nail polish strips stick on and you simply file off the excess. They are non toxic and vegan and come in a range of colours, styles and finishes. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1603024899989548/ R - is for Reindeers. Personalised wooden reindeers for table place names or home decor made by Bear and Rose. www.bearandrose.co.uk S - is for Sand Art. It is an experience rather than just a product. The person completing the picture uses their imagination to create the picture in the colours they wish. For children it helps to build their skills and it is a lovely activity suitable for all ages and most of all, it is great fun. Missy Moo's Mischief Crew- KBH Virginia T - is for Tree decorations. No plastic here, wood, glass and metal for a more natural Christmas. https://www.theukchristmasstore.co.uk U - is for a Unique spiritual experience. Using shamanic healing techniques and essential oils by Viv Chamberlin-Kidd. www.essentiallyshamanic.co.uk V - is for Vegan. Vegan friendly gifts, for the plastic-free, eco-friendly vegans in your life. www.WellnessYorkshire.co.uk W - is for Whispers. The dress agency to treat yourself or someone special to a festive party dress .. gift vouchers also available. Whispersdressagency.co.uk X - is for Xmas cake. Rich fruit cake made to a special family recipe, with or without whisky, uniced and wrapped, or decorated and boxed - the perfect gift or treat for yourself from Deborah Bakes Y - is for Yoga. 🧘‍♀️ 5 Lovely Yoga Classes for £35.00 to keep you calm and less stressed this festive season. www.millfieldfitness.co.uk Z - is for Zzzzzz. Time for a peaceful nights sleep after all your shopping using your personal and unique mix of essential oils... do terra style. www.mydoterra.com/uniqueessence

Here's our top 5 list of Morgan + Wells products to kick start your 2019. Number 5: Constantine - Bringing a glimmer of joy into the dark months, our Constantine bracelet will cheer you up right through the day and into a cheeky catch up with friends in the evening. Number 4: Roch - You can't beat having a January clear our and your wardrobe will thank you too! Always ensure you keep back a classic go-to bag which you can adapt to any seasonal trends. Our Roch bag tassel will add that extra pop of on-trend colour to any classic or staple bag in one quick clip. We follow the trends so you don't have to. Number 3: Walmgate - The season of romance is soon upon us and we're getting lots of requests for personalised wallets in time for February 14th already. So don't miss the boat, pop an order in now and then you'll be Über organised. Number 2: Basil - Off skiing or to catch some winter sun? Our passport cover will keep your essential cards and passport protected and secure. Named after our Great Uncle Basil who travelled the world several times with the Royal Marines as Winston Churchill's batman, you'll be in safe hands! Number 1: Namaste - January is fitness month and a great way to kick start the new you! After wrestling with an unruly yoga mat for years this nifty little strap came to be. Simply pop the strap rounds your mat after a yoga or pilates session, throw it over your shoulder and you'll be able to get out the of the door in one effortless go! No mat-wrangling for you anymore.

The importance of buying locally seems to be on everyone’s conscious this year, which, as a small independent business is fantastic news. By supporting local companies, it keeps money moving in the local economy for longer, it’s more beneficial to the environment and you are less likely to buy duplicate gifts for family members when you shop from quirky, interesting and unique shops. So, as a nod to those small independent businesses working hard this year in York, here’s our quick A-Z of amazing gifts you can buy for your loved ones (or yourself!), to make this Christmas an extra special ...and local one. A is for Aromatherapy - Room sprays and oil pulse point rollers to make your house smell beautifully festive whilst you remain joyful at this time of year. (Room Spray, 50ml, £9.99 & Relaxing / Energising rollers 9ml, £6 (Sarah Wilson Natural Therapies, https://www.facebook.com/naturaltherapiesbysarah) B is for Books - Gift Sarah Dixon’s ‘Alfie Slider’ series to any sci-fi loving child and it’s guaranteed peace for a few days! (Sarah Dixon, https://sarahdixonwriter.com) C is for Cupcakes - indulge in some festive flavoured cupcakes. Do we need to say any more? (CrumbleBerry Kitchen, http://www.crumbleberry.co.uk/) D is for Dolls - These handmade dolls come with the cutest clothes and make a fantastic plastic-free toy. (£40+, Billie and Ben Dolls, https://www.facebook.com/Billieandbendolls/) E is for Exquisite Cakes - these are out of this world! She’s an international award winner and any cake you make at home now will instantly be an embarrassment! (The Sugar Florist Artisan Bakery, https://www.facebook.com/pg/thesugarfloristartisanbakery/) F is for Foxy Chocs - luxury handmade chocolates to share with yourself! (Foxy Chocs, https://www.foxychocs.co.uk) G is for Glass - The ideal gift for a crafty relative, Naomi’s glass fusing lessons are great fun. Or you can just buy one of their stunning ready-made pieces! (Naomi’s Stained Glass, https://www.facebook.com/NaomisStainedGlass) H is for Hair - This is a brilliant idea for those of you with WILD haired children. You can either let the professionals plait their hair for a special occasion, or you can gift a plaiting lesson (so your other half can plait hair at 7am while you have a lie in!) (Pretty Plaits, https://www.facebook.com/mariasprettyplaits/) I is for IDAS - (Independent Domestic Abuse Services) is a specialist charity supporting anyone affected by domestic abuse or sexual violence. Sadly 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will be affected by this terrible crime, and it's so important we do all we can to support those affected. Why not donate to the charity this Christmas instead of sending cards (IDAS, https://www.idas.org.uk/) J is for Jam - Grab some of these beautiful gift boxes, filled with homemade jams and chutneys and while you’re at it you might as well get Santa a Brownie Mix! (£4.95 for 2 jars, £6.95 for 3 jars, Izzy Whizz Treats, http://www.izzywhizztreats.co.uk/) K is for Kinesiology - Get you body ready to move in the New Year with some fantastic kinesiology sessions. (The Happy Healing Hut, https://www.facebook.com/pg/TheHappyHealingHut/) L is for Leather - luxury leather goods all handcut and handstitched by York’s very own leather artisan. Anything from gorgeous bags, purses, wallets to even dog collars and stunning belts. If you can’t decide or you’d like to gift a commission, vouchers are also available from Morgan + Wells. (Morgan + Wells, www.morganandwells.co.uk) M is for Motivational Cards - “Take Care of Your Whole Self” and grab a set of these nifty reminders to “Be Calm, Stand Strong” and be awesome in 2019. (Emma Langton Coaching and Hypnotherapy, http://www.emmalangton.co.uk) N is for Nursing Jewellery - a great gift for a new parent, or parents-to-be for the dreaded teething period. These necklaces have seven colourful beads which are bright and eye catching for baby to chew and play with making it great for nursing and baby wearing. (Belle & Bear, https://www.bellebear.com) O is for Our Little Shop - based at the Steiner School in Fulford this is a treasure trove of Waldorf wooden toys, books, craft materials and natural toiletries. (Our Little Shop, https://www.facebook.com/pg/YorkSteinerShop) P is for Promises - Make 2019 a peaceful one with a bubble bath voucher, or even maybe a wild one (baby sitting voucher) with a book of Promise Vouchers (£5.99, Stationary Geek, https://www.stationery-geek.co.uk) Q is for Quiz - Spark CIC have just released their New Year’s Eve party details and along with some of the finest independent street food and bars in York there will also be a DJ and a quiz of the year. (£6 and includes a glass of bubbles on arrival, Spark: York CIC, https://www.sparkyork.org) R is for Roots - If you’ve ever eaten at Roots Restaurant you’ll know the score. It’s awesome! Tommy Banks has bought some of the Black Swan charm right into our city and their dishes are hearty, fun and simply delicious. Book now! (Roots York, https://www.rootsyork.com) S is for Soul - A Gentle Hug for the Soul is a lovely book if someone’s going to have their first Christmas after a loss or has recently dealt with a major life change. This new book by Lindsay Coldrick will provide some comfort and help you move forward (NRG Healing, https://www.nrghealing.co.uk/product/a-gentle-hug-for-the-soul-paperback-book/) T is for Traveler - Never be without your notes, planner or check list with these cool and refillable notebooks. (Dotty Ella, https://www.facebook.com/DottyElla/) U is for Ukulele - the unstoppable York ukulele collective, The Grand Old Uke of York’s have a brilliant Christmas CD out. ‘On a Christmas Morning’ is packed full of festive classics and a couple of surprises are in there too. Download it from their website, put your feet up and perhaps pour yourself a cheeky sherry! (The Grand Old Uke of York, www.grandoldukeofyork.com) V is for Vintage - with one of the best shop window displays around, Bowler Vintage on Fossgate will get you kitted out and you can guarantee no one will be wearing the same as you! (Bowler Vintage, https://www.bowlervintage.com) W is for Wine - Hurrah! If you’ve never been for a night out to Pairings Wine Bar, you are literally missing a treat. A great last minute gift is their Pairings Experience (Pairings Wine Bar, http://pairings.co.uk/experiences/) X is for Xmas Cards - It’s not too late to scribble on and seal these stunning lino-cut Christmas Cards. (£10 for 4 cards, Rose and Hen, https://www.etsy.com/shop/roseandhen) Y is for York Cocoa House - chocolate, chocolate, chocolate. Eat it, drink it, buy it, smell it, gift it. Their afternoon tea is to die for. (York Cocoa House, https://www.yorkcocoahouse.co.uk/) Z is for Zzzz’s - Light a Cherish Life Relax(ing) soy candle and float off into the land of nod. They are 100% natural and vegan friendly so are beneficial to your mind, body and conscious. (£9 travel tin or wax melts, Cherish Life, https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Cherishlifestore) For more fabulous ideas you can always visit Indie York’s guide to some of the Independent businesses in York. https://www.indieyork.co.uk/ Happy (local) Shopping and a Merry Christmas to you all!!

Years ago ‘Genuine leather’ on a tag used to mean the real deal, but if you’re thinking about making your next heirloom purchase - do read on! Today it’s everywhere but the ‘genuine leather’ name tag has become a misnomer of sorts. Yes it does mean that your item ‘has’ real leather in it (it could just be referring to the label by the way) but it’s the lowest quality leather you can buy. It’ll probably be made of the lowest grade leather fibres and more often or not it’ll be these fibres mixed with shavings of fabric or increasingly popular, plastic. Several layers of this will be bonded together with glue and then painted to look like leather. In an era where the majority of the population are trying to reduce their plastic usage and have become more aware of the harsh chemicals in our day-to-day lives; you really need to watch what you’re buying. So, watch for Faux leather which is made with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyurethane (PU). Both are bad for the environment and your health and have been linked to cancer. Then there is Bonded leather, which is pretty much leather dust (left over from higher quality projects) bonded with vinyl to make a strong “fabric” which is then given a leather pattern. Patent leather is coated in a glossy plastic finish (think plastic use again!) and Corrected leather is imperfect leather sanded down to create a smooth finish (people think this means smoothness = quality leather) and finished with a coat of synthetic materials, nice! Long term investment? No! Substandard leather and faux leather will almost certainly need replacing a few years down the line, it’ll look worse as time goes on and of course this is regardless of how much you paid for the item in the first place! Invest wisely Look for Full Grain leather, this is the highest grade you can buy and takes the entire grain of hide with all the scratches, scars, imperfections and in turn, toughness. It’s heavy-duty and will last you a lifetime. It’s so expensive for small leather businesses to buy because the larger, ‘designer’ companies won’t use a lot of the hides available because it’s scarred, has been branded or had natural imperfections. It’s breathable and it will develop an amazing patina over the years and is widely know as the best leather money can buy. Bridle leather uses only the finest leather designed for the equestrian market. It's flesh and grain is stuffed full of greases and then finished off with wax. It's horrendously labour intensive and expensive but yet smooth and comfortable (as it's worn next to the horses skin). Again it will age beautifully and can stand up to all weather conditions and dirt that you'd expect to find in a stables! Few UK tanneries now produce Bridle leather. Failing that, buy Top Grain leather, a happy half-way house. Many well know designer brands use this to make their identical, uniform wallets and purses. It is in fact split from a full-grain hide and then sanded and smoothed before being printed with a leather grain before being treated and coloured. This way mass production can take place and everything will always look the same on the store shelves. Buy an Investment Here at Morgan + Wells we only use the best! Our prices reflect this and we are proud to label our products with our stamp. We care what goes on our shelves. We want each hide to be used sensibly, to be given our full attention and as we don't use machines, this inevitably takes more of our time. -Each item is individually cut from the finest of hides. Time consuming, yes, but it means we can avoid large imperfections that large machines cannot avoid. We do think though that these marks add character and individuality! -Everything is hand saddle-stitched too with waxed thread. This is the traditional way to stitch leather and involves using two needles at the same time. If you snag normal stitching it will unravel itself - saddle-stitching says firmly put, it will not unravel. It is mean and hardcore! - Each item is then hand finished (if the product requires it) Some require edge-dying before being burnished with beeswax three times to create a waterproof and uniform edge. We love the way we work. It’s taking things right back to when quality was paramount. When items were treasured and passed on through the family. Shop wisely and buy something that is made for life! Morgan + Wells