Meet the Maker – Samantha Hall Designs

Samantha Hall Designs is an eco-friendly British wildlife inspired gift ware and homewares brand. All of her collections are hand painted and drawn using watercolours and charcoal and then put onto luxurious textiles and paper products. Her hand painted patterns are featured on various items such as oven gloves, aprons, tote bags, cosmetic bags, cushions, greeting cards and notebooks. To find out more about the company, what inspires the designs and what’s next, take a look at our interview with Samantha Oakes, founder of Samantha Hall designs below…

How did it all start?

I have always been an artist and designer at heart. I graduated from university with a degree in textiles and ever since then, I have been creating designs developing my style and skills. I took the plunge to start my own business in 2017 after I met my friend, a fellow artist who told me to just do it! It all began from there.

The story behind the name…

I decided to use my maiden name to keep my family name close to my heart.

Where are you based?

I am based in sunny Brighton on the south coast of England, sandwiched between the sea and the beautiful South Downs. For me, it is the best place I could be. I am in a very creative city surrounded by other designers and I have beautiful nature all around me.

What inspires you?

I am inspired by British wildlife and the beautiful landscapes we have here in the UK. I am also heavily influenced by man’s best friend, dogs! I volunteer at the Dogs Trust once a week where I get to care for dogs that need a home. My family dog Jake the chocolate Labrador and the dogs at the Dogs Trust definitely have an influence on my work!

What is your creation process?

My process always starts with research and painting motifs with watercolour. From there, I then take my time to create my patterns in my own style. People have often said my work looks a lot like the brilliant designs of William Morris.

What makes you, your brand or products unique?

A big part of my business is making sure everything I do is eco-friendly. All of my textile products are made from 100% cotton and are made in a UK factory where they use water based dyes and salt based treatments. It is important to me that I consider the planet in every aspect of my work. I even re-use packaging I get from deliveries to send out my orders.

What is your next project?

I am currently working on my Christmas collection which I will be showcasing this year at the Country Living Fair. I won’t spoil it for you, but I can tell you I am very excited to show you my design!

What is your biggest achievement?

My biggest achievement so far must be being featured in the march issue of Country Living Magazine. It really gave me a confidence boost in my work and myself as a small business owner! I believe anything is possible now.

What is your best-selling product/line?

My best-selling product is my Rabbit & Carrots collection. The cosmetic bag and cards are the most popular, especially for spring.

What do you love about Country Living Fairs?

I absolutely love the buzz and the atmosphere especially at Christmas.  It’s amazing to see such a range of talent under one roof.

Your three top tips for crafters and makers…

• Never give up no matter what!
• Believe in yourself and that anything can happen if you put your mind to it.
• Surround yourself with loved ones and like-minded people who believe in you and your work to motivate you on the difficult days.

Any advice for fledgling businesses…

Marketing is just as important as the creating side of any business. Without it you have no business! Post regularly on social media, build a mailing list and reach out to other businesses that can help promote your brand.

Shop their beautiful products online at www.samanthahall.design