Collaboration Spotlight: Handcrafted Timber Meets Bespoke Decorative Art

I am delighted to share a recent collaboration featuring some beautifully handcrafted wooden bookends created by Sue and Mike Richards of SMR Agrifor, a small family-run business based near Masham in North Yorkshire.

Their bookends are crafted from sustainably sourced timber grown and milled within their own woodland and are supplied in an unfinished state, providing the perfect foundation for bespoke decorative artwork.

For this series of commissions, I worked with clients to transform these handcrafted wooden pieces into personalised and commemorative gifts. Each design was created specifically for the recipient, incorporating meaningful themes, locations, memories, and details to produce a truly unique finished piece.

As a decorative artist, I am always inspired by the opportunity to work on objects that combine function, craftsmanship, and storytelling. These bookends offered a wonderful canvas for creating artwork that is both beautiful and deeply personal.

What makes this collaboration particularly special is the shared commitment to quality and sustainability. SMR Agrifor's timber is sourced from responsibly managed woodland and certified under the Grown in Britain scheme, ensuring that each piece begins with carefully stewarded natural materials.

If you are interested in commissioning a bespoke painted piece—whether on bookends, furniture, panels, or another decorative surface—please get in touch via my website. I am always happy to discuss ideas and guide you through the design process.

My thanks to Sue and Mike for their exceptional craftsmanship and for providing such beautiful pieces to work on. Collaborations like these highlight the value of supporting small British businesses and preserving traditional craft skills for future generations.