Tavistock and Chelsea
A friend of Foras for 22 years, our maker Linda has supported directors Claire Brutnall and John Wootton both personally and professionally. A natural creative, Linda possesses a wealth of skill which has seen her turn her hand to a wide variety of crafting disciplines and create beautiful pieces which have adorned homes all over the world.
Taught by her mother to knit and crochet at the age of 6, Linda developed a love of intricate and delicate work. Her career then led her to make anything from making commercially knitted clothing to paper quilling. Crafting gave her great satisfaction as well as an outlet for her sharp and innovative mind.
Over the years she has created sculptures from ribbon and jute, many of which have been sent to friends all over Europe, as well as blankets for babies and full-size bedspreads. “I love a challenge,” Says Linda, “Figuring something out and using that skill to create is something I really enjoy.”
During the lockdowns of the Covid pandemic, Linda started to produce handbags, using crocheted cord to form structural shapes. Though initially working with simple designs, she started to work with increasingly complex patterns which she then brought to Claire. Claire’s experience in product development and Linda’s talent combined have led them to create the Tavistock Tote and Chelsea Satchel.
A series of colours were chosen, which represent natural Norfolk. For the Tavistock, a rich rust red called Tuscan, a shade of red bricks and pantiles. In a homage to our agricultural roots soft brown Chestnut mimics the earth, whilst Salt is the clean white of smooth rocks in the sea. The Chelsea is available in the elegant cream of Birch, reminiscent of the many woodlands this county possesses. Clay is a tribute to the marshlands and oyster beds of the North Norfolk coast and Olive a soft green for grasslands and summer leaves.
Created from recycled yarn, each bag is finished with a Foras branded vegan leather pouch, making them a sustainable, ecologically conscious and stylish accessory.
The Tavistock Tote is designed with one shoulder strap for complete elegance and is spacious enough for a laptop or natural produce. The Chelsea satchel has a removable base, allowing it to hold a solid shape or be flexible. An internal, removeable strap will hold the bag closed and a double strap gives strength and security.
Wear a Norfolk crafted bag with pride!
