Craftsperson at Not Compulsory (Ian Holbrook)

I thought it would be a good thing to write about the expertise of specific craftspeople in a series of periodic profile publications.
Whether it be an individual, a pairing, or a team, that are upholding traditional craft methods; or the same maybe but have added a contemporary twist, or, perhaps, a sole trader/craft collective that are bringing new handmade themes to light. They may be regulars at craft fairs, some may have alternative careers but work on their crafts with a passion; while some may have achieved various levels of commercial success having honed their skills over time. Some might be teaching and sharing skills, while for others their craft making might be nothing more than a clever hobby. We will see.

Introducing Mr Ian Holbrook - Fabric Lampshade Maker

Let's get the party started then, with Lancastrian, Ian Holbrook. Ian is a maker, and restorer of fabric lampshades. The ethos with many who handcraft, as is Ian's, is one of 'heritage, family values and true craftsmanship'. With an early interest in design and craft, Ian acquired the practical, soft furnishing skills which set him on his way working in the industry.

IAN P HOLBROOK 

Ian has been involved in the manufacturing of lampshades for many years. A director of the handmade, lampshade business called Premier Lampshades Est: 2004 Premier Lampshades which sells to both trade and the public, is a British business built on family connections within the industry and on its Manchester roots.


Ian's Craft Skills

Ian uses specific hand /industrial sewing machine and pressing techniques that are unique to the construction, restoration or repair of lampshades that are quintessentially British in design. Therefore, the traditional, period style lampshades that come to mind, and also designs that are more contemporary. 

Each and every lampshade is made with due care and attention. Measuring, binding; cutting; pinning; tacking; gluing; stitching and lining, as well as trimming, decorating and careful handling are his forte.  

Ian keeps an array of stock textile fabrics and accessories to manufacture lampshades that will enhance and complement any room design. Vintage, Retro, Country, Tartan, French Lace, Designer - you name it! 

His business also offers a bespoke made-to-order service and the website offers a user-friendly lampshade builder facility. 

LAMPSHADE RESORATION

Ian is also able to repair, recover or restore old or damaged lampshades.


Ian's Prestigious Client List

Readers will be interested to know that Ian could forever boast in regard to client sales but they do include supplying lampshades for the QE2 and the THV Patricia Ship, for both the John Geilgud Theatre, London and the Royal Brighton Theatre, also for Jamie Oliver, Ted Baker, Sky Sport's Super 6 and for the sets of TV Soaps and Drama series including BBC TV's Downton Abbey and Peaky Blinders.

SCENE FROM BBC TV'S PEAKY BLINDERS - LAMPSHADE IN TABLE DRESSING 

SKY SPORTS SUPER 6 - LAMPSHADE IN LIFESTYLE SHOT

Comment

'Ian's craft is that he beautifully 'tailors' lampshades of all types and of all shapes and sizes’.