Maker of the Month: Samuel Souter
At Elmslie House, we're more than just organizers of craft fairs; we're cheerleaders for Makers who breathe life into every creation. Our Blue Magpie Craft Fairs are lovingly crafted to support and shine a light on the talented Makers who bring something special and innovative to the craft world.
As our new initiative of Maker of the Month, we're giving a warm welcome to Samuel Souter, a remarkable woodworker from the beautiful countryside of Herefordshire. Samuel's story is close to our hearts: he took the courageous step from a secure job in building conservation to follow his passion for traditional skills and quality craftsmanship as a full-time maker. And what a journey it has been! Find out more about Samuel's working practices here.
Our craft fairs are the perfect stage for Samuel and makers like him to share their work, their skills, and their passion. These events are not just about the beautiful objects we can see and touch; they're about the community, the learning, and the shared excitement for all things handmade.
The maker movement, celebrated worldwide, is all about that warm fuzzy feeling you get when you create something with your own hands. It's about the story behind each piece, the care that goes into it, and the personality it brings to our lives. Samuel's dedication to his craft reflects this beautiful movement, emphasizing the charm and genuineness of handmade treasures over the impersonal nature of mass production.
His creations are not just stunning to look at but are built to last, and are thoughtfully designed and use sustainability sourced hardwood from local saw mills, timber yards, and upcycled old furniture.
From functional yet stylish charcuterie boards to playful matchstick pots, Samuel's collection is a testament to his artistic vision and his knack for creating pieces that make our homes feel more like, well, home. His kind contribution - a device holder for this month's social media competition, is just another example of how his work meets the sweet spot between beauty and utility.
Each event we host is a tribute to creativity, innovation, and the irreplaceable touch of the handcrafted. Samuel's story, and those of all our attending artisans, remind us why we fell in love with craft in the first place.