by Heather Luke | Jun 23, 2015
Describes the colour of the hawksbill turtle’s shell, made of black, off-white, dark brown, yellow, and all tones in between; also refers to the similar markings of a cat and butterfly. Tortoiseshell is used in interiors as accessory details, paint finishes and...
by Heather Luke | Jun 23, 2015
A 17thC, European lace made with loosely twisted threads, often in a shell design or with picot edgings. Being a quick stitch it produces a lace that is not as fine, beautiful or durable as the very best of laces, but which low cost and simple look makes it entirely...
by Heather Luke | Jun 23, 2015
Another name for a Torchère. Also an uplighter, a tall floor lamp with a shade made in the shape of an upturned bowl, which casts an upwards, diffused...
by Heather Luke | Jun 23, 2015
Initially a floor standing torch or candelabra, it now more commonly refers to a tall column-like stand made to display candelabra. Torchères are still used with candles, and are also available converted into electric lamps that only need the addition a giant...
by Heather Luke | Jun 23, 2015
A neat, visible running stitch used to decoratively emphasize a line or strengthen an edge. Suit collars and lapels are topstitched to improve the tailoring whilst keeping an element of discreet finish. It is a technique that is used for interior furnishings for...
