July 2025 at

Meet the makers- 
Finding Direction Through Design: Ally’s Journey into Furniture Restoration

Ally worked on this traditional Welsh dresser hand painted in “Steamed Milk” with restored dark wooden features and Barley Twist legs.

When Ally joined our Interiors Programme, she was looking for more than just a new skill—she was seeking a fresh start. At 24, Ally was navigating the challenges of ADHD, depression and anxiety. After stepping away from college to focus on her mental health, she moved back home, uncertain of her next steps but ready to try something different.

Drawn to creative work and looking to rebuild her confidence, Ally quickly found her rhythm in our workshop. She showed a natural talent for hands-on making—learning everything from sanding and staining to using drills, saws, and other tools with care and precision. She brought curiosity and quiet determination to each session, embracing new skills and building her confidence bit by bit.
One of the most rewarding shifts came when she decided to enrol in a short course on French polishing—something she might not have imagined doing just months before. She came back to the workshop beaming, proud to show off what she’d learned. It was a turning point.

Through her time with us, Ally not only developed technical skills but also began to see a future for herself in furniture restoration. Inspired by the lived experiences of our team, she explored career paths in the field. With support from our staff, she built a portfolio, received tailored guidance, and successfully applied to university. Last September, she began a degree in Furniture Conservation and Restoration. This was a huge step forward and one she fully earned.

Ally’s journey is a brilliant example of how creativity, community, and the right support can open doors. We’re incredibly proud to have been part of her story and can’t wait to see where her talent takes her next.

The Charm of the Past, Reimagined

There’s something undeniably special about giving new life to an old piece of furniture — especially when it holds a story within its grain.

Our latest restoration project is a beautifully crafted Welsh dresser that’s been lovingly brought back to life. Stripped back with care through thorough cleaning and gentle sanding, this dresser has been transformed while still retaining all of its character.

We chose Small and Co’s Bedford Bramble — a rich, warm hue that feels both timeless and modern. It brings out the intricate lines of the piece and adds a fresh vibrancy without overpowering its traditional charm.

The top surface has been fully restored and treated with a durable, satin-finish varnish, allowing the natural wood to shine while providing lasting protection. It’s the perfect contrast to the painted body — earthy, elegant, and full of depth.

Whether placed in a kitchen, hallway, or dining room, this dresser, named ‘Chi Chi‘ is more than just a storage solution. It’s a statement piece. A fusion of past craftsmanship and contemporary style.

What do you think of the final look?
Let us know—hit reply or find us on Instagram to share your thoughts!

Environmental Statistic for July 

Upcycling isn’t just about giving furniture a fresh new look — it’s a powerful way to reduce our environmental footprint. By transforming existing pieces rather than buying new, we cut down on the need for raw materials, which in turn reduces resource extraction by as much as 85%. That means fewer trees felled, less mining, and a significant decrease in the energy used to produce new materials from scratch.

In fact, every upcycled piece helps to preserve natural ecosystems, lower industrial emissions, and keep perfectly usable items out of landfill. It’s a small shift with a big impact — and it starts with simple choices, like restoring a worn dresser or repainting a cupboard that’s lost its spark.

Want to learn how to upcycle yourself?
We run hands-on furniture painting and upholstery workshops right here in our shop — and this July, we’re offering an  exclusive discount our readers. Spaces are limited, so you’ll need to be quick!