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This weekend I was formally sworn into the Company of Cordwainers in York - one of the seven ancient York Guilds still in existence today. The Company dates back to the medieval period and forms part of York’s long history of skilled trades and craftsmanship that still survives in the city today. The earliest recorded reference to the cordwainer trade in York appears in the Freemen’s Rolls of 1272–1273, with “Thomas de Fulford, Cordwainer” listed as the first entry. New Member of the Company of Cordwainers in York Cordwainers were traditionally workers in “cordwan” — a fine leather originally imported from Cordoba in Spain, typically made from goatskin. The Company’s coat of arms still reflects this history, featuring goat heads linked to the origins of the leather trade. Historically, the guild played an important role in York life, helping maintain trade standards, train apprentices and contribute to civic and religious events within the city. As someone who spends most days hand stitching leather goods in a studio, it felt genuinely meaningful to become part of an organisation with such a strong connection to traditional leatherworking and craftsmanship. While modern leatherwork looks very different to medieval York, many of the same values still apply; good materials, skill, patience and making things properly. Morgan + Wells has grown steadily over the last few years through commissions, exhibitions, teaching workshops and continuing to champion traditional leatherworking and British-made materials. Becoming part of the Company of Cordwainers feels like an important part of that journey. What I particularly appreciate about the Company is that it isn’t simply about history or ceremony. The Guild continues to support education, craftsmanship, charity work and civic life in York today, helping keep traditional trades visible and relevant in the modern world. One thing I found particularly interesting is the history behind the word “cordwain” itself. Originally, cordwain, or cordovan leather - referred broadly to fine leather produced in Córdoba during the medieval period. Much of this early leather was made from goatskin, which is why the Company of Cordwainers coat of arms features goat heads. Today, many leatherworkers immediately think of shell cordovan when they hear the term. Modern shell cordovan is actually something quite different, a highly specialised leather made from the fibrous membrane beneath the skin on a horse’s rump. Over time, the name became strongly associated with horsehide because shell cordovan developed such a reputation as a luxury leather. It’s interesting how the meaning evolved over the centuries, from fine goatskin leather from medieval Spain to one of the most recognised luxury horse leathers in the world today. It was a really enjoyable weekend, and I’m very proud to now be part of the Company of Cordwainers in York. For more information about the Company of Cordwainers, visit The Company of Cordwainers of the City of York.

A Worthwhile Detour: York Open Studios in Tadcaster This Weekend The final weekend of York Open Studios is here - and if you’ve not made it out yet, this is the one to catch. Just a short drive from York, we’re set up in Tadcaster at Venue 1, and it’s a space well worth stepping into. This year, you’ll find a small but seriously strong lineup of makers throughout the City and outer regions but in Tadcaster you'll find Venue 1: Morgan + Wells Leather Studio – stunning hand stitched leatherwork, built slowly and made to last using tradition skills and tools. Theatrical costume pieces for the world-wide stage alongside restorations and her own range of luxury bags and British leather belts, keep Naomi busy. MarcoLooks Illustration – bold, distinctive work that brings a completely different energy into the room. With CBeebies, the York Nutcracker trail and AArdman Academy work all under his belt - it's a fabulous Open Studio for budding artists and animators alike. It’s not a crowded gallery or a polished high street shop. It’s a working environment - tools, materials, pieces in progress - the sort of place where you can actually see how things are made and have a real conversation about it. Why make the trip? Because this is the opposite of mass-produced. You can handle the leather, see the stitching up close, understand the time that goes into each piece. You can talk directly to the people making and watch them do it. When to visit 🟡 Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th April 🟡 10am – 5pm 🟡 Venue 1, Tadcaster 🟡 Above the Beth Elsden Art Gallery 30a, High Street, Tadcaster, LS24 9AT 🟡 15-20 minutes from York and Free parking right behind the studios. This is the final weekend - once it’s gone, it’s gone for another year. If you’ve been meaning to come, this is your moment.

We are super excited for Small Business Saturday UK on 6th December 2025, and we hope you are too! This nationwide celebration is all about shining a spotlight on the incredible independent shops, makers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who bring creativity, character, and community spirit to our high streets and online spaces. Whether it’s your favourite family-run café, the artisan who handcrafts beautiful gifts, or the local service provider who always goes above and beyond - Small Business Saturday is the perfect moment to show your support. 💙 Why Get Involved? Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities. When you shop small, you’re not just making a purchase - you’re helping a dream grow, backing local jobs, and keeping neighbourhoods vibrant. Even the smallest action can make a huge difference: * Shop with an independent retailer * Share your favourite local business on social media * Leave a positive review * Recommend a small business to a friend Every bit of support counts! Learn, Grow & Connect: Join the Small Business Digital Tour In the lead up to 6th December, Small Business Saturday is hosting an exciting digital tour , packed with free virtual webinars designed to help small businesses succeed and grow. These sessions are led by inspiring small business owners who generously share their expertise - and each webinar is recorded, so you can catch up anytime that suits you. Whether you're looking to enhance your marketing, improve operations, or get fresh ideas, this is an incredible opportunity to learn from people who’ve been there and done it. You can find all the details and register through the official Small Business Saturday UK website. Mark the Date & Spread the Word Let’s celebrate the passion, hard work, and resilience of small businesses across the UK. Save the date - 6th December 2025 - and get ready to shop small, share the love, and help our local businesses shine. Here are some of my favourite Small Businesses: 💙 Marco Looks https://www.marcgodfrey.com 💙 Hannah Weston Jewellery https://www.hannahweston.com 💙 Pedddle https://pedddle.com 💙 Thora and the Prince https://thoraandtheprince.co.uk 💙 Community Clothing https://communityclothing.co.uk/ 💙 Lucy & Yak https://lucyandyak.com 💙 Esme Mai Photography https://www.instagram.com/esmemaiphotography 💙 Beth Elsden Art https://www.bethelsdonart.com 💙 Jane the Potter https://www.janethepotter.co.uk 💙 The Pig & Pastry https://thepigandpastry.com Together, we can make this Small Business Saturday the biggest and best yet! 💙