Behind the scenes at Mustard & Gray Studio in Shropshire, where Zoe handcrafts unique homeware and stationery designs inspired by the local landscape.
Meet Ella – Our Brilliant Work Experience Guest
We were thrilled to welcome A-level student Ella to the Mustard and Gray studio for a week of hands-on creative exploration. From designing and making to seeing the ins and outs of how our studio runs, Ella threw herself into every task with real enthusiasm (and a great eye for detail!).
Work experience is such a valuable opportunity—for students to get a taste of working life, and for small businesses like ours to gain fresh perspectives and ideas.
Before she heads off to continue her studies, we asked Ella a few questions about her week with us—what she learned, what surprised her, and what she’s taking away from her time in the studio.
Here’s what she had to say...
Hi Ella! Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what made you choose Mustard & Gray for your work experience? I'm an A level textiles student who enjoys sewing and making things for my friends a family in my free time. I decided to choose Mustard and Gray for my work experience because I had seen some of their amazing products online and wanted to learn more about what working in a creative setting was like.
What were you most looking forward to before starting your placement? Before I started, I was looking forward to learning about how the different products are created and what materials are used. I was also intrested in learning about how designs were transfered onto materials and different items, such as mugs and water bottles.
What sort of tasks and projects did you get involved in during your time here? During my time here at Mustard and Gray, I have helped the team to plan, design and test out new products, which they are loking to introduce in the future. I also learned about the printing process by making my own products with some of my designs and drawings printed on them and I have helped to make some circus themed bunting for an upcomming event.
Was there anything that surprised you about working in a creative studio? I was suprised to find out how many different products the team made and the different techniques they used. I was also suprised by how many exciting and creative ideas about new designs the team came up with as well as how quickly they managed to make some of their fantastic products.
What was your favourite part of the week? Any highlights? I've really enjoyed everything that I have done this week, but making a bag with my own design printed on it was definitely a highlight.
Did you learn any new skills or try anything you hadn’t done before? I tried binding fabric for the first time (whilst testing out a a pattern for a product the team potentially want to introduce in the future). Whilst I found the technique quite tricky to start with, it is extremely useful and I will definitely use it in the future. I have also learnt how to print designs onto different products such as mugs and water bottles which was amazing.
What part of the creative process did you enjoy the most—designing, printing, organising, something else? I enjoyed learning the process of printing designs onto products and learning about how these designs were prepared and edited on the computer before being printed onto special paper.
If you had to describe your week at Mustard & Gray in three words, what would they be? Amazing, Intresting and Fun!
How has this experience influenced your thoughts about what you might like to do in the future? It has shown me what working in a small, creative business is like and encouraged me to pursue my hobby of textiles, even if its not what I chose to study at University.
And finally… any advice for other students thinking about doing their work experience in a creative setting? If you ever get the oppourtunity to work in a creative setting for your work experience, go for it! Just don't forget to ask questions and be as creative as possible! The whole experience has been so amazing and I have loved every minute. It has really shown me what it would be like to work in a creative setting when I am older.
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At Mustard & Gray, every product we design and create is infused with personality, craftsmanship, and a little bit of our collective heart. But who are the people behind the scenes, making it all happen? We thought it was about time we introduced ourselves properly – and, of course, shared our favourite products!
If Mustard & Gray had a beating heart, Zoe P would be it. Co-Founder, designer, and all-around creative force, she’s the one who transforms inspiration from the Shropshire countryside into the stunning patterns and products you love. Passionate about handmade British homeware and independent design, she ensures every item reflects the landscapes that inspire her. Her absolute favourite? The Green and Silver Birch Double-Sided Lampshade. With a bold, contemporary outer colour and a nature-inspired inner pattern, it’s the perfect balance of modern design and organic beauty.
Behind every beautifully functioning page of our multiple websites is Vicky, the mastermind who ensures everything runs smoothly online. From the trade platform to our retail store, she keeps the digital side of Mustard & Gray up and running, helping customers discover our British-made gifts and homewares. But she’s also a creative powerhouse, bringing her stunning illustrations to life in our collections. Her favourite? The London Marching Band Mugs – a perfect blend of classic design and playful detail, manufactured in collaboration with Duchess China in Stoke-on-Trent.
Managing wholesale, keeping operations running smoothly, and generally being the glue that holds everything together, Zoe B is an organisational wizard. She loves a challenge and is the go-to for making sure every stockist has exactly what they need. Her favourite product? The First Birthday Animal Parade Time Capsule – because it makes such a unique and meaningful gift, perfect for capturing those precious early memories in a truly special way.
If there’s something being printed, assembled, or finished in the Mustard & Gray studio, chances are G is working their magic. From screen-printing to 3D printing, they ensure every item is crafted to perfection. Their top pick? The Over the Fields Beer Stein – not only does it keep beer ice-cold in the summer, but it’s stylish enough that Zoe P actually allows it in the cupboard!
We love what we do, and we’re so proud to share our passion for design, craftsmanship, and creativity with you. Have a favourite Mustard & Gray product? Let us know – we’d love to hear from you!
Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes stories, new collections, and exciting updates from the studio!
Discover more: Visit our website
This year, I had the pleasure of exhibiting at the Bishop’s Castle Michaelmas Fair, and what an incredible day it was! With my stall set up right on the High Street, I found myself in the middle of all the action, surrounded by brilliant entertainment and the vibrant spirit of the local community.
From the moment the fair began, the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement. The streets were filled with friendly faces, both locals and visitors, all eager to explore the wonderful stalls and enjoy the festivities. I was lucky enough to have front-row seats to all the fantastic performances—from musicians to street performers and traditional fair acts, it was non-stop fun!
Having my stall on the High Street was an absolute dream. I had the opportunity to engage with so many lovely people, both long-time Mustard & Gray customers and those discovering us for the first time. The locals were so warm and welcoming, taking the time to stop by, chat, and appreciate the designs we had on offer. It was a great feeling to be a part of such a close-knit and supportive community.
The fair itself was a true celebration of local talent and creativity. From the stunning handmade crafts to the delicious food stalls, every corner of Bishop’s Castle was bursting with something unique. It’s fairs like these that remind me how special local markets and community events are—they’re not just about selling products, but about forming connections and sharing stories.
By the end of the day, I was exhausted but absolutely thrilled. I left the Michaelmas Fair feeling inspired by the energy of the community and excited to return next year. If you’ve never been to Bishop’s Castle during Michaelmas, I can’t recommend it enough. The fair is a fantastic showcase of local artisans and makers, and there’s truly something for everyone.
Until next year, Bishop's Castle!
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, it's the perfect time to cozy up your home and prepare for the autumn season. While we’re busy swapping out summer dresses for warm sweaters, it’s equally important to transition our interiors into the new season. One simple yet impactful way to refresh your space is with lighting—and what better way to do that than with our beautifully designed lampshades?
Lampshades are an underrated yet essential accessory in home decor. Not only do they diffuse light to create a warm, inviting atmosphere, but they also serve as a statement piece that can completely transform a room. Whether you're looking to add a pop of color, introduce some texture, or simply freshen up your living space, a new lampshade can do wonders.
Our latest collection features an array of lampshades designed to bring the essence of autumn indoors. Think rich earth tones, soft neutrals, and bold patterns that reflect the beauty of the season. Whether it’s a deep, warm orange reminiscent of falling leaves or a subtle gray that echoes a misty autumn morning, our lampshades are crafted to capture the cozy elegance of the season.
What makes our collection stand out? It’s all about the details. Our double-sided lampshades feature a solid exterior with a vibrant patterned interior, allowing you to enjoy a splash of surprise whenever you glance up. This unique design element adds depth and character, making it easy to match with your existing decor or serve as a focal point in any room.
Switching out your lampshades is one of the simplest ways to update your decor without a complete overhaul. It's a small change that delivers big impact, instantly refreshing the look and feel of your space. Whether you’re sprucing up a bedside table, enhancing your reading nook, or adding ambiance to your dining room, our lampshades make it easy to transition your home for the autumn season.
Consider Your Space: Think about the size of your room and the height of your lamps. Larger spaces can handle bolder, oversized shades, while smaller areas may benefit from more delicate, minimal designs.
Match Your Mood: What vibe are you going for? For a cozy, warm feel, opt for shades in earthy tones like browns, oranges, and reds. If you prefer a calm, serene atmosphere, shades in blues, greens, and grays are perfect.
Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix patterns and colors. A patterned interior with a solid exterior can offer a sophisticated look that’s not overly busy but still visually interesting.
As you prepare your home for the cooler months, let Mustard and Gray help you create a cozy, inviting sanctuary. Explore our full range of lampshades and discover how a simple lighting update can make your interiors truly autumn-ready.
Ready to fall in love with your space all over again? Check out our latest collection of lampshades and light up your autumn with style and warmth!
Ahoy, home decorators (sorry I could not help myself) and coastal dreamers! Are you yearning for a serene retreat that evokes the calming essence of the seaside? At Mustard and Gray we are lucky enough to be inspired by the stunning Lynn Peninsular as one of our two bases.
We have developed our coastal inspired offering to have everything you need to transform your home into the perfect coastal sanctuary. Dive into our collection of beautiful homewares and let’s embark on a journey to create a seaside haven right in your living room.
The first step in creating a coastal sanctuary is embracing the color palette of the sea. Think soft blues, sandy beiges, and crisp whites. Our selection of decorative cushions in these soothing hues will instantly bring a breath of fresh sea air into your home. Mix and match various shades to mimic the ocean waves and sandy shores.
Coastal décor isn’t just about the colors—it’s about the textures too. Incorporate natural materials like linen, jute, and rattan to add depth and interest to your space. Our washable linen-effect placemats and cushions are perfect for layering on your sofas and dining tables. They not only look great but are also practical for everyday use.
No coastal sanctuary is complete without a touch of nautical charm. Adorn your space with accessories that remind you of the beach. Our bone china mugs with ocean-inspired designs, such as seashells and starfish, make for delightful additions to your kitchen or coffee table. These pieces are perfect for sipping your morning coffee while dreaming of seaside adventures.
Clutter can quickly disrupt the serene vibe of your coastal sanctuary. Opt for stylish yet functional storage solutions to keep your space tidy. Our elegant storage boxes are perfect for stashing away everything from magazines to blankets, all while adding a touch of coastal elegance to your décor.
One of the hallmarks of coastal living is the seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. Incorporate greenery and natural elements into your home to capture this essence. Our botanical-themed cushions and nature-inspired wall art are perfect for bringing a bit of the outdoors inside, creating a harmonious balance between your home and nature.
Lastly, don’t forget to add personal touches that make your coastal sanctuary uniquely yours. Allow your personality to infuse into your décor. These items not only add a bespoke touch but also make your space feel truly special.
Create a warm and inviting atmosphere with the right lighting. Opt for soft, ambient lighting that mimics the gentle glow of the setting sun. Our collection of table lamps and candles in nautical colors will help set the perfect mood for relaxation and tranquility.
Creating a coastal sanctuary is all about capturing the essence of the beach and bringing it into your home. With Mustard and Gray’s beautiful homewares, you can effortlessly transform your space into a serene seaside retreat. So, set sail on your decorating adventure and let the coastal vibes wash over you!
Explore our full collection of coastal-inspired homewares on our website and start creating your perfect sanctuary today. Happy decorating!
Zoe
