In this episode, I sit down with Carolyn Denham, the visionary behind Merchant & Mills, a renowned supplier of patterns and fabrics for home sewers. Delving into Carolyn’s rich background, we uncover her formative years as a passionate sewer in rural Yorkshire and the transformative impact of her fashion studies. Against the odds, Carolyn shares the pivotal moment that spurred her to establish Merchant & Mills, despite scepticism from those around her. From the iconic shop in Rye, celebrated by sewing enthusiasts worldwide, to the therapeutic power of sewing, we explore the intricacies of fabric sourcing and Carolyn’s identity as a maker above all else. Join us as we also discuss the launch of new sewing retreats, offering a sanctuary for creative exploration.
You can find Merchant & Mills on the web at merchantandmills.com and on Instagram as @merchantandmills
Garmology is by Nick Johannessen. There is no advertising or sponsorship, but you are welcome to support the podcast via my Patreon at patreon.com/garmology or you can buymeacoffee.com/garmology
Nick Johannessen is also the editor of the WellDressedDad blog and WellDressedDad on Instagram. You can email Nick as Garmology (at) WellDressedDad.com.
Garmology theme music by Fabian Stordalen.
Fascinating interview, wide ranging from someone who must be a graduate of the famous West Riding Education philosophy (loved her making Bowie trousers for the 80s “Derry Girls” at her school), through living and working in New York and Italy, to returning to the Uk and deciding outside the operating theatre to follow her dream if she survived. Setting out on the great adventure of risking all to creating a company and on to choosing and sourcing organic dyed cloth, visiting the mills, checking the authenticity of the fabric, to helping to support farmers financially as they move towards organic farming. William Morris would have been encouraged that 150 years later his ideas about the imporance of the craftsperson and the sources of materials should still be valued! What a huge relief to listen to an interviewer who prompts and listens, allowing the subect the time and space to expand on their life, and the philosophy behind it. Very impressive, touching and throughly enjoyable. Thank you very much.
thank you Joyce..for such a wonderful, eloquent and comprehensive understanding of my journey and for all your support over these years, you have always been a believer!
xxx