Love at first print
In this interview, Molly Mahon, designer and master of pattern, takes us from her early days printing at her kitchen table to running a joyful, ethical textile brand. She discusses the instant “love at first print” that launched her career, her deep commitment to sustainable craftsmanship, and how nature fuels her distinctly joyful designs. Get ready to be inspired by the magic, the imperfections, and the soul behind the block print.
Hello Molly, how are you? Can you tell us a bit about yourself, who you are, where you’re based and what you do?
Hello! I’m Molly, an artist, block printer, mother of three, wife and the founder of our joyful, colour-filled textile company. I live and work in Sussex, surrounded by nature rich countryside that constantly feeds my imagination. I design hand-block printed fabrics, wallpapers and homewares that bring a sense of cheer and charm into people’s homes.
How did you first get started with block printing? Was it something you always knew you’d pursue?
It was love at first print! I signed up for a local course just out of curiosity and the moment I pressed that first carved block onto fabric, I was hooked. The rhythm, the imperfection, the magic, it felt so alive. I didn’t plan to pursue it as a career, but the joy of it was so powerful, I just kept going. One thing led to another and before long I was printing at my kitchen table with my children around me.
Your designs have such a distinctive, joyful feel. How do you keep your creative wellspring fresh, drawing inspiration from both traditional techniques and modern aesthetics?
I’m endlessly inspired by the world around me, whether it’s a garden in full bloom, a trip to Jaipur, or simply the shapes of everyday objects. I keep sketchbooks filled with ideas and play with colour constantly. I also find that having one foot in tradition (like block printing) and the other in our lively, modern world keeps things feeling grounded yet fresh. It’s about celebrating old methods with a contemporary spirit.
You began this incredible journey right at your kitchen table. How has your workspace and creative process evolved since those early days?
Those kitchen table days were chaotic but full of heart. Today, I have a studio that allows a bit more room to breathe, but the ethos is the same: hands-on, colourful, full of bustle. My team has grown, and we now work closely with amazing printers in India, but I still design everything by hand, pencil to paper just as I did at the beginning.
You recently shared your insights in House of Print. What was the most fulfilling part of writing that book, and what do you hope readers truly take away from it?
Writing House of Print was a true labour of love. It gave me space to reflect on how powerful and personal the act of making can be. My hope is that readers feel inspired to create, to pick up a block, carve a little stamp, or just look at pattern and colour with fresh eyes. You don’t need to be “an artist” to bring beauty into your world.
Given how much you draw from nature, particularly the Sussex countryside, could you describe a specific moment or observation from your surroundings that recently inspired a new design?
My latest fabric collection is called Woodlands and is a true celebration of the forest that surrounds my home and has shaped my childrens upbringing. It comprises of large leafy prints and sweet iconographic observations of all the beautiful flowers that grow on the forest floor. I particularly adore the beautiful purple digitalis that grow wild here and it was a joy to introduce our new Foxglove pattern.
What's the typical journey of a new design, from that initial idea to the finished, hand-block-printed product?
It nearly always starts with a sketch, on the back of an envelope or in one of my endless notebooks. Then I refine it into a repeat, keeping the block printing process in mind. That drawing goes to our skilled block carvers in India who hand-chisel it into wood. The real magic happens when the first proof is printed. Seeing your drawing come alive in block print, with all its charm and wobble, never gets old.
What's your secret to infusing such positivity and life into every piece you design?
I think it comes from genuinely loving the process. There’s something very human about block printing, it’s not perfect, and that’s the beauty. I design things that make me smile, that I would want in my own home, and I think that joy naturally finds its way into the work. It’s not about trends, it’s about feeling.
Your brand is committed to sustainability. What are some of the practices you're most proud of in terms of being eco-conscious?
For us, sustainability isn’t a trend, it’s part of the craft. All our printing is done by hand, in small batches, using water based paint and very little machinery. We print on responsibly sourced cotton, linen, bamboo and even aloe vera fabrics. I’m also proud of our efforts to support the artisan communities we work with, ensuring fair pay and dignified work. It’s about keeping traditions alive in a way that’s kind to people and planet.
What have been some of the most challenging, and perhaps most rewarding, aspects of moving towards that goal?
It can be difficult when scaling up has been needed, and the number of block printers are dwindling, it’s a lengthy process to master, but I believe deeply in growing thoughtfully and allowing the time if needed. The reward comes in knowing that every cushion or metre of fabric we sell supports real craftsmanship. We’ve had to say no to certain shortcuts, but the long road has far more soul.
It's wonderful that you share your craft through workshops and kits. What’s the most rewarding part of seeing others discover the joy of block printing through your guidance?
I just love seeing that spark when someone lifts their block and sees the pattern they’ve created. It reminds me of why I started. It’s tactile, playful and empowering. You don’t need fancy tools or training, just a block, some ink and the willingness to have a go. It’s especially heartwarming when people tell me they’ve kept printing long after the workshop is over!
What's on the horizon for Molly Mahon? Are there any new collections, design explorations, or exciting projects you're looking forward to sharing with the world?
Always! I’m working on a new collection that mixes the joys of tulips with the rich delights of silk ikats. I’ve also got an exciting collaboration coming up that celebrates female-led craft and traditional techniques in new ways. Plus, we’re adding to our wallpaper collection, which I’ve loved exploring. And one day, I’d love to print on ceramics...
