Relics of Witney

Relics of Witney moves to The Old Works in Corn Street

2016-04-12T14:14:00.000-07:00

It's time to announce our exciting news in full....

...we've moved from our old place in Bridge Street....

to our new address:

Relics of Witney Limited,

The Old Works,

Corn Street,

Witney,

OX28 6BZ

We shared last month how we've been extremely busy behind the scenes getting everything ready for you and, though the finishing touches are still being put in places, we are OPEN!!

If you've not yet been in and seen our new place then here are some pictures to give you just a taster of all that's in store....

And, don't forget, when you visit us here at our new Corn Street address in April, enter our prize draw to win a £50 Relics voucher to spend on all our lovely goodies...

We've now got plenty of parking in front for all our customers; so useful for all of you looking to pick up big hauls of paint for your projects!

The Old Works is the most fantastic space. Director Kate Pollard says, "It's so light and bright; and such a pleasure to see the sun streaming in through the huge windows."

We've had enormous bespoke oak doors (finished with Osmo Oil) made by the excellent Rialto Joinery, which allow yet more light to flood in.

Lots of our customers have been asking what we'll be doing with all the additional space. We've got lots of plans coming soon to expand on our existing stock.

This means that we'll be able to hold many more tins of paint in store, particularly of Farrow and Ball and Little Greene colours.

Relics will also be starting to be an official Crown paint stockist, which we're very excited about.

As well as paint, we'll be looking to build on our existing range of home-wares. For example we'll be stocking a new range of fantastic oak flooring.

Relics director, Steve Hall, says, "We've moved to give us the ability and flexibility to do more of the things that we already do really well...

Moving to The Old Works in Corn Street is such an amazing opportunity to grow and develop all that we've worked so hard at building at Bridge Street, finding the very best products for customers.

We're hugely looking forward to seeing many more of our plans come together and to flourish."

We've brought all our lovely fixtures and fittings, so the new Relics feels very familiar...

...but we hope you'll be as thrilled as we are with all the changes afoot. Come in and let us know what you think.

Relics of Witney are moving in April

2016-03-01T12:46:00.001-08:00

Have you heard our exciting news? Yes, it's all change round here at Relics of Witney....

We're moving!!

Here's what our new building looked like when we first saw it:

There has been lots to do to make it ship-shape but we love the feeling of airiness and light, and the cavernous space is amazing!

Our new address will be at The Old Works in Corn Street, Witney, where we're currently scurrying about making everything perfect for you.

Whilst we're getting on with that, we thought we'd take this opportunity to share with you some behind the scenes shots of what's been going on over the last couple of months.

We're so excited to see this project come to life.

Since these original photos were taken, we've completely stripped the space back and have begun to make it our very own.

Once everything was removed (including an old spray booth!), we've been able to get on with the painting. Decorating a space of this size is not at all straight-forward so we bought in a Wagner spray painter. This YouTube video gives just a hint of what a mammoth process it is.

The vastness of this light and bright space means that all colours read much lighter than they would in a standard room.

For example, we've chosen Dulux Trade Egyptian Cotton in Supermatt for the side walls and ceiling, one of our best-sellers. This colour would normally appear as a beautiful soft beige-grey with the tiniest hint of green but here acts almost as an off-white, making the very most of the sunshine pouring in from those huge windows.

We love to show off our favourite paint shades in store; one of Farrow and Ball's new paint colours for 2016 particularly caught our eye. Inchyra Blue is lighter and more coloured than Down Pipe but still carrying the same lovely dark and moody feel.

We love the way Farrow and Ball Inchyra Blue has high-lighted the industrial feel of these huge cross beams, with its rich, dark shade of teal, turning them into a real feature if the room.

Finally, for the two end walls, we've chosen Farrow and Ball Mouse's Back, described by Farrow and Ball as a green-based grey/brown.

We love how these three colours work together, bringing a heartbeat back to our new home.

Follow our progress by following us on:

Twitter, Instagram & Facebook.

Full reveal: Farrow & Ball NEW paint colours for 2016

2016-02-01T06:48:00.001-08:00

If you've had your ear to the ground when it comes to paints, you'll have been waiting for this post with bated breath! If you've not heard the news that Farrow and Ball are releasing nine exquisite new colours for 2016 then where have you been?

Farrow and Ball have, at last, released their long-awaited new paints for 2016. Yes, nine new paint colours are now lining our beautifully bespoke shelves (nothing but the best for the paints we stock!). Just click on the links to order...

May we introduce you to Vardo, a saturated, bright teal..

...and this is Salon Drab (the perfect modern chocolate colour) paired with Yeabridge Green, originally found in an 18th century Georgian farmhouse....

...but we know that you, our discerning customers, aren't only interested in the publicity shots, stunning though they are, so we had the idea, as you may have guessed from the first picture in this post, of painting a dolls house using the new 2016 Farrow and Ball colours so you can get a better feel for how they'll work for you.

Peignoir is named after the chiffon gowns worn in the privacy of boudoirs. It is a very greyed pink, giving a romantic vintage feel, though it's cool undertones ensure it could be just as striking in a contemporary home.

You can see in the image below how it contrasts with the more sugary pink of the dolls house frontage, Peignoir definitely has a softer, ethereal feel.

Worsted sits between Purbeck Stone and Mole's Breath in the Easy Neutrals family of Farrow and Ball paints. It's a warm mid-grey with a hint of stone.

Farrow and Ball describe Worsted as the perfect background to make clean accent colours, such as this electric blue carpet, pop. It works a treat!

We love Inchyra Blue's inky moodiness; it is reminiscent of Farrow and Ball's Down Pipe with the sun streaming onto it, as Inchyra Blue enhances the fullness of those darkest teal undertones.

Aaah, how we love Cromarty. Just like its darker sister, Mizzle, Cromarty is also inspired by the mist but this time from the sea, giving it a softer, more muted air.

We've painted the floor of this room in Shadow White, which most definitely falls into the category of a traditional off white, unlike some of Farrow and Ball's 'whites' we could name! Shadow White is intended to capture the softeness of white in the shade. It's also the paler relation of Shaded White...

...and Drop Cloth is the darker version. This is another sure winner, though not with the most glamorous of names, hailing, as it does, from the dust sheets used by decorators everywhere. Drop Cloth is wonderfully typical of Farrow and Ball's expertise in producing the most fantastically subtle colours. Is this a stone, a grey, a gently muted green? The answer is, as always with these magical cusp colours, that it depends on the room you want to paint, so please know that we're always here at Relics of Witney to ask for advice before you commit to any purchase.

If you'd like more information, or simply want to chat through trying them out for yourself (and how can you not be tempted with these beauties!), come and see us at Relics of Witney or contact us here....

...if only to pick up an up-to-date Farrow and Ball colour card!

How to create the perfect fireplace...

2016-01-02T06:49:00.004-08:00

It's amazing what a mess Christmas can make of your fireplace!

Did your Christmas see a roaring fire blazing in your hearth? It's not just people that look a little worse for wear after the excesses of a wonderful Christmas have passed, your fireplace will have taken a battering too...and don't get us started on the mess Santa leaves sliding down the chimney!

But fear not! We are here with tidings of good news! Over the next couple of months, we'll be here sharing the best ways to get your fireplace and hearth looking its New Year best once again...

Let us start this month by making sure that your fire-making supplies are in place. These tools will be put through their paces over the year so please make sure you choose good quality tools fit for purpose.

We suggest you start off with a companion set; a cost-effective way of buying the bare essentials. Our Village Companion set comprises a brush, shovel, poker and tongs, complete with a matching stand, all robustly made from wrought iron in a satin black finish.

We also have separates available, if you need replacements or additional tools, such as these log and coal tongs, made by fireside specialist Manor....

...or, if you are lacking in space for your accoutrements, may we suggest this baby fireside tidy set...

A fire-guard is an absolute must for containing any exuberant crackling or popping of fuel, as well as keeping out any curious little fingers. However, there's no need to sacrifice style for safety. Take a look at these two beauties to see what we mean.

One of the common complaints about fire-guards has been that they can be ugly so, we've tracked down a fire-guard specifically designed to enhance arched fireplaces. It nestles snugly against the opening, becoming a feature in its own right.

Our other recommendation is this fire-guard. With its stunning curves, and shapely handle, you may be tempted to think it is just a pretty face....

However, its fantastic quality means that its top and base is made from one smooth piece of metal which minimises scratching on softer hearth materials such as slate.

Finally, we come to the issue of fuel storage. For wood burners, we love the neutral tones of our rattan baskets for holding logs, alongside our Kindling Bucket for those smaller pieces.

And, for coal, we stock a range of coal hods.

Lastly, if you have not yet discovered the joys of your own fire, may we encourage you to try it out! A good way for a trial run, if you have a chimney breast, is our sturdy Manor cast iron fire basket.

Next month, we'll have a full tutorial on cleaning your fireplace, so that it can be the focal point it deserves.

Happy New Year!

The Top Ten Best Christmas Crafts!

2015-12-01T06:36:00.003-08:00

This month, it's December..and Christmas! We're highlighting just ten of our favourite Christmas crafts, just in time for you to rustle up a few for the big day....

If you're not the crafty type, then worry not! These Christmas crafts range from the simple, to the very simple! Just right for a spot of creative satisfaction in these busy days ahead....

1. Our first craft is this gorgeous gilded centre piece (find the full tutorial here), made using gathered garden foliage and transfer leaf gilding.

2. Use this time to think up new ways of wrapping presents! Create your very own bespoke Christmas hampers for friends and family, using our range of beautiful baskets. Keep a stash of our smallest size of rattan baskets for emergencies. Wrapped in cellophane and tied with ribbon, this is an easy-peasy way to make the most last-minute of gifts look fantastic!

3. ...or how about this string-wrapped gift? Our string (complete with scissors and oak stand) will allow you to get this look!

4. Look at these adorable vintage-style crates, made from brand new boxes. They've been sanded and stained and have been completely transformed. Come and see our full range of different wood stain options.

5. Create your own Christmas scented pine cones....find out how from the full tutorial here...!

6. ...and for a little extra festive sparkle...

...use our Liberon Gilt Cream on those cones...

7. Use string and glue to make these lovely word hangings...simply brush the string with the appropriate glue (make the whole process even more scrumptious by using one of our brushes...

...and then shape the glue-soaked string into any word of your choice and leave to dry...

8. Less of a traditional craft, but still involving plenty of creativity, get your fireplace arranged beautifully for guests. May we suggest a few seasonal extras?

Our Manor Suffolk Hod is capable of carrying large quanitites of coal, which is exactly what we'll be needing if the weather forecast is right about the cooooold winter coming.

Keep your hearth spick and span with One of our companion sets, which are traditionally made using wrought iron, making them as robust as they are peasing to the eye.

9. And if you have an open chimney breast but don't won't to go to the huge expense of having new fireplaces fitted, consider popping in one of these beauties.Our fire baskets start from only £52.67 and come in two sizes.

10. Festive walnuts scattered throughout your living areas make a stunning way to tie in your decor with seasonal festivities. Paint walnuts with your wall paint and then gild!...

...For an easier version, use our gilt cream.... and then distress to bring out touches of your chosen colour...

Our gilding kits contain sample versions of all you need to get started with this and a whole host of other crafts. You'll be hooked!

Merry Christmas from all of us at Relics of Witney!

Images via Relics of Witney, Vintage Gal, Pinterest, It All Started With Paint, Meatloaf and Melodrama, Relics of Witney, Relics of Witney, Relics of Witney, Decorators Notebook, Flickr, Relics of Witney, Relics of Witney, Relics of Witney, Relics of Witney,

Relics of Witney, Relics of Witney

The Best Furniture Waxes In The World!

2015-11-01T08:56:00.002-08:00

With the delightful upcycled furniture trend showing no signs of abating, one of the questions we're often asked is which waxes for wood we recommend. We're here this month to devote a whole post to which are the best waxes for different purposes to give you full peace of mind.

Waxes suitable for wood are broadly divided into two categories. Those used for finishing a piece, painted or otherwise, and those used for the ongoing nourishment and cleaning of furniture.

Let's start with one of our - and your - favourites. Liberon's supremely popular Black Bison Fine Paste wax. We believe this is one of the best furniture waxes available. As implied by its name, it comes in paste form which makes it incredibly simple to apply, its solvents preventing the formula from drying out in the tin. Its pliability also ensures that you can easily take the amount of product you need, making it very economical.

The paste can be applied using a brush for a rustic look or rag for a smoother finish. It takes about twenty minutes to dry and buffs superbly if you desire a more lustrous end product.

Although its original purpose is for nourishing and protecting all types of wood, Liberon Black Bison Fine Paste Wax is fantastic on painted furniture, as testified on blogs worldwide. Cassie from 'Primitive and Proper' says this: "I use several different waxes, but this is one of my absolute favourites to use. It gives a beautiful finish and buffed sheen and smells like heaven."

The wax comes in a full range of colours...

...including clear and neutral. 'Neutral' adds colour at all, whereas 'Clear' will bring more depth to your paint colours. Although soft on application, the whole range cures to a fine, tough finish. It is also worth noting that it is certified as safe to use on toys.

For general cleaning and ongoing protection of wood, we highly recommend Liberon 's Beeswax Liquid and Paste, endorsed by the Guild of Master Craftsmen. Depending on your application preference, both are easily applied and buff up like a dream, bringing out all the wood's natural beauty. The Beeswax Paste, in particular, is perfect for treasured pieces of furniture

We suggest Liberon Liquid Wax for large areas such as beams and panelling, as it will not penetrate sealed wood as well as the paste. For more details on the large range of high quality finishes we stock, talk to one of the Relics of Witney team.

Giving your furniture a deep down clean every few months will help to feed the wood, preventing it from drying out, as well as enhancing the richness of colour and, of course, making your house smell wonderful in the process!

Happy November!

Images via Modern Country Style, Relics of Witney, Primitive and Proper, Popular Woodworking, Primitive and Proper, Liberon, Curate and Display , Liberon, Relics of Witney

How To Have The Perfect Weekend!

2015-10-01T05:13:00.001-07:00

The season of mellow fruitfulness is firmly upon us, and we're in for more fine weather over the next week too. Come this month on a journey around how to enjoy the perfect relaxed, autumn weekend.

Start by having a leisurely breakfast. You can't go wrong with a hen that lays heart-shaped yolks {how do they do that?!}.

Breakfast should definitely be followed by a lovely, long bath, soft, fluffy towels within easy reach. {Rattan baskets in store at Relics of Witney}

A quick stop for lunch, outside if all is as fine as is predicted this weekend. This beautiful conservatory is painted in Farrow and Ball French Gray.

Then it's time to get ready for a country walk with the dog. Boots? Check. Barbour? Check. (The solid oak peg rails can be found here)

Umbrella (it is Britain after all!)...

Enjoy every moment of the sun's golden rays...

And then it's time for the home-coming ritual. Muddy boots on the rack (available in Relics of Witney)...

Hang up coats over our sheila maid to air....

Or, if you're lucky enough to have a dedicated boot room then the disrobing can take place there. Don't forget to give those muddy boots a clean on our boot scraper...

Take in the last of the sunshine with a glass of wine in the garden, lighting one of our lanterns if you've left it a little later than intended (always the sign of a good day!).

And then it's time to head indoors for hot toast by the fire. Bliss!

There's just time for a quick sweep up to catch any fallen fire-debris - our fire sets make this job a real pleasure.

And so....to bed!

Relaxed, refreshed and ready for another day...

Images via Getly, Modern Country Style, Farrow and Ball, Country Homes and Interiors, hratshop, unknown, unknown, Ideal Home, Lewis Alderson, Relics of Witney, unknown, Relics of Witney

Adding The Wow Factor To Your Curtains!

2015-09-01T09:25:00.001-07:00

Curtain poles have an air of magic about them. The right curtain choice and curtain accessories can absolutely make or break a room. To see what we mean, imagine a gloriously decorated room, perfectly dressed from every angle, And now picture a plastic curtain rail hung crookedly over the window. Uurrrgh! The room would be utterly spoilt.

Don't let that happen to you! Take a look at our favourite ways of adding the wow factor with our curtain poles.

Firstly, and certainly most importantly, don't forget that the right curtain treatment can completely alter the feel and dimensions of your windows. This tip is for you if you're plagued by less-than-pleasing windows. By hanging your curtains higher and wider than a poky window, it can be made to give the impression of a much larger space and, indeed, hide those windows altogether if necessary.

Point two is to think outside the box. Don't be constrained by convention in colour, style or material. Bring your own touch to your house, whether that's ornate swags, eyelets, pleats or simply using an oar to hang a Union Jack!

Thirdly, there is no point in breaking the bank over fabric for your curtains and then scrimping on the finish. If budget constraints mean that you need to prioritise, go for the better finish every single time. You can see in the picture below that it's possible to make simple fabric choices look a million dollars with a bit of flair and knowhow. If that knowledge doesn't come easily to you, get in contact with the Relics of Witney team and let us steer you in the right direction.

You may be faced with the quandary of how to dress to very different windows within one room. Using a consistent height and finish can help to create cohesion; see below for an excellent example. By using dark poles at the same height, coupled with floor length curtains in a near match to the window and wall colour, the disparate windows are barely noticed.

If you've really gone to town with your fabric choice, let it sing by down-playing the details. Try our simple steel range of curtain accessories.

There are as many finishes for curtain poles as there are fabrics, when different finishes are taken into account. This is not meant to confuse but instead to encourage you to explore your creativity. Consider painting, waxing, gilding or leaving raw for a whole range of possibilities.

Paint is a great way to go when you want to tie your curtain pole into either the fabric or the paint used in the room....

Consider the placement of your pole. If you want to visually hide your curtain pole, perhaps because your fabric is very busy, then place it against a background of a similar colour. Here, by painting the pole in same colour as the ceiling, the pole seems to disappear.

Using wooden curtain poles can help lead the eye outside to a leafy garden scene. Liberon and Osmo (both stocked by Relics of Witney, and available in store or by mail order) have manufactured a variety of oils, varnishes and waxes to give our solid timber curtain poles the full spectrum of finishes.

Gilding is the way to go when you want to highlight particular features. Gilt creams are particularly easy to use for beginners.

Lastly, don't forget about finials. Relics of Witney stock a large range, including contemporary, classic and country. There is no need to insist on the same finish throughout. You can see in the image below how effective changing things up can be, for example by using a wooden rail and silver ball finials.

The world is your oyster!

Images via Cabbages and Roses, ddiydesign, HeartHome mag, Casafina, Homestyle, Kate Forman, Relics of Witney, Kate Forman, hgtv, IvyClad, Peony and Sage, fabricut

The Best Holiday And Coastal Display Ideas

2015-08-01T13:48:00.001-07:00

The holiday season is upon us!...so, this month, we've rounded up the very best holiday display ideas with tips on how to make them your own. We're migrating in droves, either to warmer, balmier climes or staying put here in good old Blighty for a cheap but cheerful staycation. Either way, we're building up precious memories. Memories that can sit gathering dust on the shelves of our minds, distorting and fading as they go, OR those same memories can be stimulated and tantalised each and every time you see one of these lovely holiday display ideas in your own home.

Keep your senses alive.

Remember the feel of the sand under your feet with this stunning display of bottled sand....

Use one of our stunning oak peg rails to hang treasured souvenirs...

This holiday display idea is just the ticket if you can't bear the thought of dusting any extras; show off a carefully curated collection in one of our lanterns...(you can find some here but to see them all, pop in to Relics)

...with a whole host of sizes to choose from, we can cater for every suitcase-full!

An empty fireplace, bereft of its winter logs, is an ideal space for gather shells....

Try giving an old wooden palette a lick of Earthborn paint in Fresh Air for a quick-fix of holiday fever...

A small shelf perched on top of a carved wooden corbel (Relics of Witney stock a variety of corbel designs) makes a charming made-you-smile vignette....

...Or simply create an ever-changing space for treasured holiday memories, perhaps using a lick of paint to create a feature wall.

We've posted these holiday display ideas for August so that there's lashings of time for you to get intentionally gathering while enjoying the last of the sun's summer rays upon your face.

Have fun!

Images via: egg2cake, Pottery Barn knock off, unknown, unknown, completely coastal, hometalk

The Best In Craft....Stunning Painted Terracotta Pots

2015-07-01T15:56:00.003-07:00

As we write this, the sun is shining its little heart out, the birds are singing and we feel summer has well and truly arrived. And where better to be than pottering around outside in this beautiful balmy heat.

We've rounded up some of the best painted plant pot ideas for you to look at, drool over and then, we hope, get out there and paint for yourselves!

Earthborn paints are ideal for this as you won't need to use a primer, meaning that you can get on with the fun bit of applying the stunning colours whenever the mood takes you.

Although if you intend to use your pots outside, it's worth sealing the paint with a weatherproof finish, or try using Earthborn's Silicate Masonry Paint.

Taping off sections, or painting by hand gives a gorgeously graphic finish....

Try Earthborn Lido and Marbles for this two-tone treat...

...or Fresh Air and Gregory's Den if a muted finish is more your cup of tea...

We love this ombre effect. Within the seventy-two shades available, Earthborn have plenty of tonal variations to play with to make this look your own.

We're smitten by this next idea. Earthborn paints are absolutely 100% safe for children (certified as suitable for use on children's toys), meaning that there'll be no hidden nasties to worry about when applying the paint to your children's feet.

To create this upside down drip effect, first give your pot a coat or two of White, and then let Earthborn eggshell in Daisychain drip slowly down the sides.

Pick two of your Earthborn favourites, leaving the terracotta rims bare, for an instant summer display that will brighten up dull fences...

For summer holiday fun, get creative with your kids. How about these two adorable ideas for starters...

...or for something a little more adventurous, have another look at our pot-gilding ideas. Reading Room and Trilby would give a similar effect.

Earthborn Claypaint has an unbelievably matte finish and so is super-easy to write on, and acts as a good key for applying transfers....

Wouldn't this be a pretty outdoor display...

And now it's time for us to stop for this month and head outside into this glorious sunshine. Will you be joining us, paintbrush in one hand, plant pot in the other? Just don't forget the sunscreen!

Images ia Carolyn Roehm, webstagram, Earthborn, Relics of Witney, 2Modern, Cottage Living, Design Sponge, Kim's Kraziness, My Clever Nest, Surprise DIY, The Whoot, Relics of Witney, Nest Of Posies, Welke

The Best Front Door Paint Colours

2015-06-01T14:45:00.000-07:00

If you're anything like us, here at Relics of Witney, you won't be able to resist eyeing up beautiful front doors. Your head will be turned this way and that as you walk down a new street, being inspired, and squirrelling away ideas for the future.

Try Dulux Party Surprise 1

We all know that changing the colour of your front door is one of the simplest ways to make a dramatic change to the front of your house.

Try Little Greene French Grey Dark

Choosing the right colour can instantly boost your kerb appeal, and, consequently, your house value. However, it's one thing to be bowled away by a particular shade you've spied but quite another to be able to confidently pin down a specific paint colour for your own front door.

Little Greene Carys

Here's where we'd love to help you. Coming into Relics of Witney is a little like hiring your own designer, only it's free! Between us all, the Relics team has decades of experience helping our customers choose their perfect paints.

Try Little Greene Dark Lead Colour

By giving us relevant information about your home, the way it faces, as an example, and the period it was built, we can help you put together a look that will perfectly suit the way you live.

Try Farrow and Ball London Stone

If, for instance, you live in a stone property, whose door is mostly in the shade, then we would steer you towards colours like Dulux Weathershield Green Stone from their Heritage range, which seems to radiate light, even from within the most gloomy of settings.

Or, if you feel that you would like your period home to have a slightly more contemporary feel, then we might suggest a harmonious shade to tie in with the brick or stone work, such as Dulux Weathershield Chalky Downs.

We've said it before but it's worth saying again (and again!) that Dulux Weathershield has absolutely fantastic staying power against all the varieties of weather. For your house exterior it's always worth choosing the very best exterior products to avoid needing to rectify peeling paint again in a couple of years. Using sub-standard paint is a complete false economy.

Farrow and Ball Pelt

Front door paint gets some of the highest traffic of your home, and is certainly the area that is most noticed. Take the time to get it right. The perfect front door paint should protect your door from the elements, withstand the elements and create a warm welcome for your guests.

Try Dulux Weathershield Fuschia Lily

Images via Pinterest, Voysey and Jones, Telegraph, Pinterest, Pinterest, unknown, Leopoldina Hayes, Farrow and Ball, unknown

How To Choose Kitchen Paint Colours

2015-05-01T13:05:00.000-07:00

When choosing paint colours for our kitchens, many of us simply don't have the option of painting our cabinets, nor do many of have beautiful wooden cabinets to paint!

If you're not prepared to put in a LOT of maintenance, painting melamine isn't the best way to go. It may look fabulous at first but with all the scrubbing and hard-knocks that kitchen doors inevitably take (let's be realistic!), they'll be peeling and flaky in no time at all.

Far better, if you've inherited a kitchen that must stay but needs an injection of character, is to give your space a kiss of character on the walls themselves.

With our extensive range of wipeable paint finishes, perfect for removing accumulating kitchen grime, Relics of Witney can offer you long-lasting peace of mind for a kitchen that will still look lovely in years to come.

So, where to start when choosing wall colours for your kitchen?

Here are a few, key pointers but for tailored advice to suit your needs, do contact the team at Relics. For more tips, take a look at Farrow and Ball's new booklet, available for our customers in store!

First of all, look at the design elements of your kitchen that can't be changed. Are they cool or warm? Choosing paint accordingly will make sure that your final choices will enhance, rather than distract from, your existing kitchen.

The brighter the room, the bolder you can be with your colour choice. If you've always yearned for deep and moody walls, kitchens, with plenty of white cabinets to blow away any traces of gloominess, are a good room to dip your toe into the dark side. Try Farrow and Ball Off Black.

On the other hand, if you have very low levels of natural light, perhaps because of an extension, don't be afraid to stick with neutrals. We have some really fabulous shades to choose from. Take a look at this kitchen with walls in Farrow and Ball Hardwick White...

Or this kitchen with walls painted in Farrow and Ball Mouse's Back, with woodwork in Pointing...

Consider tying in two or more paint colours to add depth and interest, such as in the kitchen below, which uses Farrow and Ball Pavilion Gray, Strong White and Cornforth White.

Finally, the right paint colour can and should counter any visual unbalance in your current kitchen. For example, orangey-warm wood can be toned right down by contrasting with muted colours, such as Farrow and Ball Blue Gray....

And our final piece of advice? Choose a colour that you LOVE! Paint fashions will come and go but kitchens are a room where you'll be spending a great deal of time. Let us help you get it right!

Our newsletter this month will help you think about tying in your door and window furniture. Have you signed up for yours yet?

Images via: Unknown, Weird combinations, apartment therapy, period living, sooz gordon, unknown, fresh home, g, Country Homes and Interiors, Farrow and Ball, Modern Country Style, homes-kid, Housetohome

The Best Farrow and Ball Paint Colours For Kitchen Units

2015-04-01T11:25:00.002-07:00

Probably one of the cheapest and most effective ways of transforming your kitchen is with judicious use of paint. But please let us emphasise the word judicious. Simply daubing your units with any old colour can be disastrous, giving you a poor finish and a room that ends up feeling dark and gloomy, rather than appearing spacious and stylish.

Yes, it's essential to take time over the colour. With years of experience, and many, many happy customers, the team at Relics of Witney can easily help to take the angst out of picking the right colours for your kitchen. Contact us or visit the shop in person, for a completely personal service.

For now, however, let us lead you through some stages of initial inspiration to get you well on the way to a transformed kitchen.

Firstly, find out the orientation of your kitchen. Farrow and Ball have produced a great booklet called 'All About Colour', available in Relics of Witney, which explains how the light that different rooms receives can greatly affect the appearance of paint.

For example, South-facing rooms are full of warm light for most of the day and, on sunny days, everything will look more yellow. Farrow and Ball suggest that it's worth emphasising that feeling of light and space with pale blue tones, such as Pavilion Blue or Borrowed Light, or use red-based neutrals, such as Joa's White, for a warmer feel.

Conversely, North-facing rooms can seem cooler and harsher with the lack of light. Farrow and Ball suggest that you focus on yellow-based colours, such as New White and Ringwold Ground to help bounce light around the room.

Or, instead, try working with that natural lack of light and create an intimate, cosy room with dramatic choice of colour, such as Brinjal, a deep aubergine, or Down Pipe. a dark grey with a hint of teal.

The light in West- and East-facing rooms changes throughout the day as the sun swings over the sky. It's worth taking the time to think of when you'll use the room most to tailor your colour choice to the light you'll most often experience. If you want to use the room at a time when the light is very strong, you might like to pick a shade a little darker than you'd naturally be drawn to, as sunlight has a tendency to bleach out colour.

Secondly, work out the kind of artificial lighting you'll be using. Very warm lighting, such as incandescent bulbs, will cast a yellow glow, whilst LED lighting gives a bluish cast, meaning that your chosen paint may not appear as you'd first imagined it.

Lastly, decide where you want your colour choices. The effect can be very different when painted on walls, compared to painted kitchen units. To demonstrate what we mean, here are two kitchens which both feature Farrow and Ball Elephant's Breath. The first has Elephant's Breath on the walls, and the second on the units.

We hope that's given you lots to think over. For help picking out paint colours that will work perfectly in your room, we'd love to hear from you.

Images via HousetoHome, Langham Painted Kitchens, housetohome, roomenvy, Farrow and Ball, Hamhigh, Farrow and Ball, Derbyshire life, Kate's Creative Space, unknown, unknown

How To Paint Your Kitchen Floor...

2015-03-02T00:55:00.003-08:00

There are few better ways to boost the character of your kitchen than a treated wooden floor. Can you imagine this Moroccan style kitchen with standard lino?

From looking at images like these, you may be initially tempted to lean towards painting your kitchen floor....

...but may we steer you towards using our Osmo Wood Waxes? You see, paint will inevitably crack, flake, peel or blister with the extensive wear and tear that comes as part and parcel of life in the kitchen...

... but you will never have those difficulties using Osmo Wood Waxes. They work in a completely different way: feeding, protecting and enhancing your wood.

Not only that but Osmo Wood Waxes are an excellent choice for using in the kitchen as they are extremely durable. There is simply no point to using products in the kitchen that can't be scrubbed. Repeatedly.

That newly decorated painted floor may be beautiful but it can quickly begin chip. Osmo Wood Waxes can be wiped and are both stain-resistant and water-repellent.

They dry to a satin-matt finish, combining all the advantages of oils and waxes in one easy-to-use product. And, importantly for Relics of Witney customers with young families, are incredibly safe for humans, plants and animals.

There are so many variables for you to give your kitchen a large injection of personality. Let's take a look at just a few ideas....

This effect can be achieved by taping off your floor into carefully measured squares, and alternating Osmo Wood Wax in Ebony and Oak. We love the way the beauty of the wood grain is still allowed to shine through.

These are oak boards whitewashed with Osmo Wood Wax in White Transparent to give an aged limed effect.

This large stencilled effect would be best applied by careful freehand. It's so easy to forget what a beautiful feature a wood floor can be. By treating it with the love and care it deserves, we hope we've reminded you of the amazing array of possibilities a timber floor can give.

Images via My Paradissi, Design Sponge, My Free Textures, Unknown, True Woman, Osmo, Osmo, Unknown, surry Flooring Services, Sarah Gillbane Interiors

How To Update Your Kitchen The Easy Way

2015-02-01T12:45:00.003-08:00

Let's begin our new kitchen series by easing in gently. When you have neither the time nor the budget to make significant changes, how do you add character to your kitchen? Supposing you're renting, for example, and not allowed to change the wall colour, or the units; where do you go from there?

There is one vital component that can make all the difference: our range of kitchen accessories. At Relics of Witney, we hand-pick only the very best accessories so that you, by selecting those that match your style, can transform your kitchen quickly and easily...which is possibly one of the reasons why we're recommended by Country Living UK on their Pinterest page.

If you've not yet experienced the joy of using our version of the Sheila's Maid then may we urge you to do so without delay?

At only £45, these vintage-style clothes airers with jute cord and cast iron brackets, will create a warm, farmhouse feel at minimal cost.

Very often, rental contracts state that you are in fact allowed to make adjustments so long as they are easily reversible.

Many tenants don't realise that this can include switching over the handles on your kitchen units.

It's surprising what an impact this small step can have. And, don't forget, when you move on, you can take your handles with you, meaning that your money is not wasted.

With that in mind, we have a whole spectrum of handles for every taste and every budget.

Don't forget the smaller details too. Again, these purchases are pieces that you can take with you. Here are some of our favourites... Our oak string holder is a perfect example of how to make a statement of quality in the little ways.

Our large selection of greyed rattan baskets are ever-popular with our customers, and it's easy to see why.

Sturdy, durable and stylish, these beauties will make selecting your ingredients a joy! Contact us for more details.

Whilst we love the idea of an old-fashioned roller towel hanging over the AGA rail....

...we're also aware that not many of us have AGAs. We've found a fantastic way to get the look using our oak towel roller. We can also supply especially made towels in blue, red and cream.

We want this series about adding character to your kitchen, to show how even the tiniest details can make a huge difference, even down to this cast iron egg holder...

...but with so many of us wanting to invest more significantly in the heart of the home, next month, we'll be revealing our tried and tested methods for painting your kitchen cabinets.

Images via Country Livng, Relics of Witney, Kitchen Sourcebook, Relics of Witney, andrew carstairs, houzz, ark builders, Relics of Witney, Relics of Witney,, unknown, East2Eden, The Linen Works, Creamore Mill

How To Update Your Kitchen

2015-01-02T03:14:00.000-08:00

Did you have a wonderful Christmas? We imagine that you, like us, notched up plenty of hours in the kitchen, and so we have a timely new series ahead for you here on the Relics of Witney blog.

Over the coming months, we'll be looking closely at how you can add considerable character and charm to your kitchen, which can often stay one of the blandest rooms in the home: functional and frumpy is never good.

From the most humble of spaces with barely room to swing a cat to the positively palatial, our kitchen series will show how to:

display your treasures...

create an aged finish to your kitchen table...

add character to your units...

choose the best accessories...

bring life and pattern to your kitchen....

keep your surfaces in tip-top condition...

pick out the perfect colour scheme...

Before we begin, though, may we take this opportunity to wish all Relics of Witney customers and followers a very Happy New Year!

Images via: chi, bs2h, ourvintagehomelove, houzz, ideal home, homelife, apartment therapy, indulgy, shabbychic guru

How To Make Your Own Gilded Wreath!

2014-12-01T11:21:00.000-08:00

Welcome to The Relics Festive December Post!

This year, we're giving you a seasonal tutorial to create a stunning wreath,using variegated leaf to gild, making a beautiful statement on your front door, or as a Christmas table centrepiece.

We stock variegated metal leaf in two forms: loose metal leaf and transfer leaf. Transfer leaf, which we're using today, is easier to work with as the wax-backed paper allows a firmer hold, as well as strengthening the leaf.

Here's how to make yours!

You will need:

One of our vine wreaths

Acrylic size

Variegated leaf

Garden foliage

Select evergreen foliage from your garden or the hedgerow. We've chosen viburnum, but ivy would work just as well. Holly is an option but be warned: it bites!

Our vine wreaths are like round, plump doughnuts, with plenty of room to build up a layers. Begin by inserting your first stem.

The stems work best if they are cut to a medium length (about 20 cm) with the leaves stripped from the lower end of each. This means that the bare twig can be inserted into the vine wreath without getting clogged up.

It's a good idea to keep all your stems flowing in the same direction to give the most professional finish. You'll notice that much of the foliage will have a natural bent one way or the other. Make sure that you manipulate the stem so that it bends the same way as the wreath base before insertion.

Keep building layer upon layer until you can't see any more of the vine base, and your wreath has a pleasing fullness.

Working your whole way around the wreath, squeeze your hands gently but firmly over the foliage to make a tighter shape. This helps to calm any wayward tendencies!

Pick out 7 or so new stems to gild. These should have nice big leaves so the gilding shows up really well. Coat each leaf surface with acrylic size. When size is ready, it becomes transparent and has a glossy sheen, whilst still remaining tacky.

Press a sheet of the transfer leaf onto each leaf at a time, using your finger, or a brush to give firm pressure all over. Then peel the wax paper away. This will leave the variegated leaf clinging onto the size.

Check for any areas that need a second (or third...) attempt. The wonderful thing about gilding with this method, is that you can have multiple attempts to get the look you want. Keep going until you are satisfied with the coverage.

Softly rub the gilded surfaces with a brush to remove any loose flakes and apply a thin coat of Liberon's Black Bison Antique Pine wax with a soft cotton cloth to protect the gilded finish.

This is essential if you're planning to hang your wreath outside. Once the wax has been left for its allotted time, you can buff the waxed surface with a clean cloth. This will bring out a superb lustre to the variegated leaf.

Insert these gilded stems into the wreath, and remove any leaves that are not in tip-top condition.

If you're only just getting the gilding bug then you'll love our Gilding Kit, full of the essentials to get you going, and, at only £14.99 is a huge saving on the sum total.

We hope you love it as much as we do.

Happy Gilding

and

Merry Christmas!

The Very Best Gilding Craft Projects...

2014-11-03T01:59:00.000-08:00

We, at Relics of Witney, are enthralled with the process of gilding. To be able to bring such life, such sparkle, such magic to everyday objects, particularly at this time of year, gives us a special kind of crafty thrill. In this post, we present to you a round-up of the very best gilding craft projects out there, from the easy everyday right through to those festive jaw-droppers that Santa himself would be proud of.

For example, what do you think about this incredible gilded craft: a map art tutorial using gold leaf?

Our gorgeous gold leaf gilded terracotta pots invoked an avalanche of compliments over Christmas last year. Find the full tutorial here. You can find our special variegated leaf here.

...or try this tutorial for another take on gilded terracotta pots...

A gilded pine cone garland will add more than a touch of rustic luxe this Christmas.

Follow our simple gilded pine cone tutorial using Liberon's Gilt Cream to create one of your own this Christmas.

Find out how to make these beautiful gilded seashells here:

These simple but eye-catching pebbles are gilded using gold leaf. The tutorial uses an ingenious method to create really intricate designs using gold leaf.

Aren't these gilded gold leaf balloons glorious? We love projects like these that give fantastic results even for beginners.

We found a tutorial for these gilded table numbers here. Wouldn't they be perfect for a wedding?

As these next projects show, it's possible to gild onto a number of different surfaces, including glass. In this tutorial, Mason Jars are given a new lease of life. Use our gold leaf to get the same effect.

...and here you can find out how to transform a glass coffee table with gold leaf and a stencil.

For the more adventurous among you, have you considered using gold leaf to gild an entire piece of furniture? This tutorial is fantastic...

Martha Stewart takes through a gilded craft project here, with a step by step guide to gilding a lamp shade.

Have you seen our guide to smartening up old picture frames with gilt cream, which we stock online here?

Find out how to make a gilded letter edge here. This would be a perfect craft project for ultra-smart Christmas cards. See our full range of different coloured leaf for a full range of effects.

If you're itching to get started with gilding projects, then take a look at our Gilding Kit, which includes: 25 sheets of gold leaf, 40ml of acrylic gold size, a small pack of steel wool, gilding base coat and 25ml of antiquing wax.

At only £14.99, this Gilding Kit is fantastic value for money, and would make a perfect present for the crafters in your life!

And now, it's time for us to get going with Christmas gilding craftproject of our own, which we'll be sharing next month....

How To Create The Perfect Boot Room

2014-10-01T10:07:00.002-07:00

Aaah, October.

The cosier evenings, the warming drinks, the roaring fires....

....and the mud, the grime and the dirty leaves!

If you have the space, may we recommend

The Boot Room?

And if you don't have the space, please don't fret. It's an easy task to carve out part of your hall, kitchen, garden shed or utility room as a boot space.

Here's our Source Book of Boot Room essentials...

Lots Of Pegs

Peg rails are a great way to add multiple pegs to a wall. They add a touch of Shaker simplicity that feels right for such a busy space.

Try our stunning peg rails in unfinished oak. They come in lengths of 2, 4 or 6 pegs to suit your needs exactly.

Boot Scraper

Choose one with a heavy cast iron finish to withstand all that your muddy boots can throw at it. We love this boot scraper with its antique finish and simple detailing:

Wellington Storage

We adore vintage boxes for boot storage. They're large, airy and are pre-dirtied! We're currently selling a range of old-style Coca Cola boxes that would work well for busy boots and shoes. With an aged patina and metal trivet detailing, these will add a touch of vintage charm to your space.

Alternatively, try our untreated oak Welly Boot Racks. These are easily fixed against a wall, and will make a great feature, as well as tying in with our peg rails. Too often, storage solutions are either stylish or practical. We're always thrilled to find products that manage to be both.

Cast iron boot racks can work just as well outside if treated. Ours is sturdy, strong and beautiful (and available in store). What more could you need?!

Baskets

Baskets are an easy and stylish way to give yourself more storage.

At Relics of Witney, we have a whole host of gorgeous baskets in a large range of shapes and sizes that will give your Boot Room (or Boot Space) the wow-factor.

With these Boot Room essentials in place, you'll have a perfectly prepared Boot Room, ready and waiting for the coming Autumn days.

college greenlight, coffee1, unknown, toddhunter earle, Lewis Alderson, Border Oak, Relics of Witney, finding home, Relics of Witney, wayfair, unknown, remodelista

Earthborn Claypaints: Green And Gorgeous

2014-09-04T07:17:00.001-07:00

Earthborn are the heroes of the green paint movement.

There's no doubt about it.

In fact, in honour of Earthborn, this month, we've restyled the window display at Relics of Witney. It now features lots of ideas to inspire you to get creative with this delicious paint.

Why do we love Earthborn paints so much? We're sure you don't need us to tell you that historically emulsions have contained VOCs but you may need your eyes opening to the fantastic range of truly stylish and environmentally friendly paints available, and that's where Relics of Witney can help.

The Earthborn Range Of Paints

VOC stands for 'Volatile Organic Compounds' which are emitted as gasses from some paints, not only when initially painting but in the weeks, months and years to come. We've been unintentionally contaminating our homes. All paint companies are moving away from using these nasty chemicals but Earthborn has taken an altogether different route.

Earthborn Button Tin, The Lido, Riverbank, Fuggles and Storybook

Earthborn come highly recommended by Relics of Witney for areas where walls need to 'breathe' because their Emulsions are clay-based, Eggshells oil- and acrylic-free and Woodstains water-based. You see, the water absorbed by old buildings needs to escape through its surfaces; if these are covered in non-permeable paint then you may end up with damp problems. Earthborn's gentle formula allows the moisture in older walls to evaporate freely.

Earthborn Vanilla

And there's more good news! Earthborn Claypaints have been created with an ultra-chalky finish that softens and enhances the light in your room. The thoughtfully put-together range of sixty colours allows these paints to be used right across the design spectrum.

Earthborn Nellie

There's an Earthborn paint with your name on, whether your look is feminine....

Earthborn Lily Lily Rose, Cupcake and Eiderdown

...country...

Earthborn Gregory's Den alongside Farrow and Ball Blue Gray

...contemporary...

Earthborn Muddy Boots

or coastal....

Earthborn Masonry Paint

Earthborn paints are fantastic for painting furniture. If you're looking for a paint that needs minimum prep work then have a look at Earthborn, as they are designed to be used with no primer at all. However, we do always recommend using primer for all brands because we believe more preparation means a better, more long-lasting finish.

They can be combined with Osmo Oils for a really hard-wearing finish that's also good for your health.

Osmo Oils

Earthborn paints are the perfect excuse to let your creativity run wild. For example, we love the way they've been used on these tiles with stencils. The ultra-flat finish complements the matt-ness of the terracotta surface.

For more information that tailor-made to your needs, come and see us at Relics of Witmey, or visit our online store.

We've recently added these large wooden circles showing samples of Earthborn paints. Seeing is believing!

Images via: Relics, Relics, Earthborn, Earthborn, Earthborn, Earthborn, Earthborn, Modern Country Style, Anna Starmer, Earthborn, Earthborn, Relics, Relics,

How To Decorate With The Best Brown-Grey And Greige Paints And Accessories

2014-08-01T13:10:00.001-07:00

If the thought of decorating with browns takes you straight back to ugly memories of the seventies, now is most definitely the time to think again. Able to act as both a neutral and a colour, brown is a hugely versatile shade which is happy to straddle a whole variety of looks.This month we want to take you on a tour of the best that fashionably-greyed browns (often referred to as greige, a cross between grey and beige) have to offer, and that Relics of Witney have picked out for our customers.

First of all, Let's talk paints. Today's browns come in a whole dizzying array of different hues - from the palest of caramels to the deepest, warmest chocolate.

We think these are the best grey-browns:

Little Greene Attic II:

Farrow and Ball Charleston Gray:

Little Greene Silt:

Little Green Chocolate Colour:

Farrow and Ball Mole's Breath:

These are fantastic choices for adding depth to your decorating - by painting and distressing a favourite but tired pierce of furniture for a gentle feel, or for adding a bolder hit on feature walls. None of these are run-of the mill browns; they will all having you looking again and again, trying to fathom their moody hues.

And now onto our accessories. We are huge fans of our rattan baskets...we have a large collection in a whole gamut of shapes and sizes. They are incredibly popular, and rightly so. Strong, tough and beautifully elegant: who knew such a combination was possible? Their thick-stranded woven texture will bring interest to any area needing a bit of a nudge style-wise. And the possibilities for use in your home? Oh, the possibilities! Just take a look at some of these images....

And, lastly, for those of you who are looking to add a tangible sense of vintage character to your home, we have a fantastic Bakelite range of switches, socket and ceiling roses, as well as traditional fabric-covered flex.

Who said brown had to be boring? They clearly hadn't seen our stock! Come into Relics of Witney, or shop online for all your decorating needs...

Images via: Farrow and Ball, Vanessa Arbuthnott, Little Greeene, Farrow and Ball, Little Greene, Little Greene, Little Greene, Little Greene, Farrow and Ball, Modern Country Style, Garden Trading, quickcrop, Pinterest, Claire Mee, stilinspiration, woondroom, cox and cox, room seventeen, Relics of Witney, Relics of Witney

The Very Best Of Emerald Paints And Emerald Interiors

2014-07-01T14:52:00.002-07:00

Welcome to July's blog post, where we'll be looking in depth at decorating with Emerald Green: more specifically, what are the best ways to introduce Emerald to your home, and which are the best Emerald Green paints to use?

When Emerald Green was announced as Pantone's Colour Of The Year for 2013, there was a flurry of activity: on the runway, at the shows, in the catalogues, and then, gradually, gently, almost imperceptibly, the look softened from the somewhat gaudy to the downright delicious.

Our tip for introducing colour is to wait for trends to filter down in a more usable way, rather than letting your home become a slave to fashion.

Though let us be frank, Emerald Green has never really gone out of fashion. It's not particularly taxing to see why: it's royal jewel-like tones are synonymous with luxury, yet its soft echoes of lush, verdant gardens give Emerald a crisp freshness that is hard to rival.

There are very few colours that can straddle this many looks so successfully. Emerald can turn its hand to the whole decorating spectrum, from country manor to beach shack, from grand castle to apartment chic.

Though it can look a little heavy if a room is decorated in its rich tones from top to bottom, so consider using Emerald in smaller touches: hints and accents to add a surprise pop of colour, adding something a little different, a dash of the unexpected.

Think this...

...not this...

Here, then, are ten ways to enjoy decorating with Emerald Green...

1. An Emerald Green Front Door

Make a smart entrance with the bold hues of Emerald. Warm and welcoming, smart and timeless.

2. Painted Furniture In Emerald Green

Emerald green takes kindly to being painted on furniture of all kinds, including kitchen units. Perfect for a retro, shabby chic or modern take - this is an incredibly adaptable colour.

3. Add Accessories In Emerald Green

A simple way to do this is by using sample pots to paint accessories, making a significant impact without a significant outlay.Consider vases, lamps, picture frames, etc...

4 Stencils

By using stencils, it's easy to bring in flashes of green, try concentrating your efforts on one strip for maximum wow-factor.

5. Emerald Green Feature Walls

If an accent wall is introduced, all eyes will be drawn to that space, making it a perfect method to highlight parts of your room that deserve to be shown off.

6. Emerald Green Floor Paint

For a playful, rustic edge, use floor paint to introduce a large expanse of colour.

7. Children's Rooms

The bright hues of emerald green function as a bold primary for youngsters but one that will grow with them as they get older.

8. Patterns

Emerald green can take on the world when it comes to pattern. Bold stripes, chevrons, or even damask. Classic, playful or opulent. It's your choice.

9. Lighting

For those of us who are slightly less bold with colour, lighting is a fantastic way to take your first, tentative steps into, literally, brighter shades.

10. Shelving

Introduce a peek-a-boo element of surprise by painting the backs of your shelving. Watch as snatches of colour come out to play hide and seek with your accessories.

The great thing about Emerald is that, as with many greens, it goes with most colours: just look at any garden, any pastoral view and let your eyes take in the range of colours that nestle next to green.

Working well in the warmer months, with its springy freshness, and then metamorphosing into something warmer, snugger and cosier, Emerald Green has the magic to work with each and every season.

Our favourite emerald green paints, all available in Relics of Witney, include:

Sanderson Sherwood Green

Dulux Emerald Delight

Little Greene Garden

Dulux Heritage Grass Green

Sanderson Evergreen

Farrow and Ball Arsenic

Dulux Weathershield Buckingham

Dulux Trade Village Maze

Acryllic Colourant in Emerald

There are a myriad of different ways to add a bit of bold to your decor without having to redecorate entirely. Look around your home to see where might need a little freshening up, and focus your Emerald efforts there.

And, as always, if you need advice on picking out colours, or choosing contrasting shades then please don't hesitate to contact us at Relics of Witney. We're always glad to help.

Images via:

etsy, Goeyefordesign, wgsn hbl, decorpad, whomes, houzz, richimagedotme, blackmilk clothing, pinterest, designaddictmom, pinterest, Elle Decor, kristen ellis, 6th street design school,, country living, etsy, bhg, inspiration for home, design milk, house beautiful, house beautiful,, house beautiful, the urchin collective, trendland, birchandbird, martha stewart, ingerstedt, Dominique Decoratrice, house beautiful, sara sarna

Farrow and Ball Paint and Old Made Pop-Up Shop In Relics Of Witney

2014-06-23T04:36:00.001-07:00

This month, Farrow and Ball are encouraging all of us to think more creatively about decorating and adding colour to our homes through their Find It, Paint It, Love It campaign. Farrow and Ball say that we tend to focus on the walls, often leaving the trim and furniture as an afterthought.

When it comes to interiors, it pays to get creative with paint. By custom-painting furniture pieces, or introducing colour to your interior trim (such as skirting boards, banisters, door frames or dado rails) you can inject personality and interest to your decor.

At Relics of Witney, we've long been fans of helping our customers pick out paint colours to bring out the best in their homes. We think this means allowing homes to reflect their owners passions and personalities: what you truly love, not just having a magazine-beautiful space to tiptoe about in.

Two people who have this gift in spades of injecting personality into any space are Lee and Kate, owners of Old Made.

We're very excited at Relics to be hosting them at what we believe is Witney's first ever pop-up shop.

They sell an exquisitely curated collection of artsy, fifties-inspired pieces. Yet, let us be clear: this is no run-of-the-mill vintage shop.

Old Made has a unique take on interiors that is hugely influenced by Lee and Kate's combined background in graphic design and textiles, with a definite nod to Modern Rustic and light touch of Industrial style.

Think 'Last Tango In Paris' and eclectic apartment living, think jazz record covers by Reid Miles and Picasso's atelier, and you'll be half way there to understanding just what it is that makes Old Made so special.

Old Made love to work with local design/makers, such as these lovely cushions by Mabel and Bird who are based in chipping Norton.

Lee and Kate adore illustration, fabrics, maps and colour. They cite Farrow and Ball Cinder Rose and Blue Ground as some their favourite paints, as well as the monochrome hues of Lamp Black by Little Greene and White by Earthborn Claypaints.

So why did they choose Relics to launch Old Made? Quite simply because they love our vision too. We asked what their favourite Relics' buys are: 'We recommend Relics cup handles for adding a quirky twist to unloved pieces of furniture. The Bakelite light switches for a slightly retro take. And it has to be Black Bison wax for perfect sprucing!'

Lee and Kate's blend of experience, as well as their obvious talent, combines to create a look that is different from anything we've seen before.

Find Old Made on their website, Twitter and Pinterest, and, for one more week at Witney's first pop-up shop in Relics! Then, in the near future, they'll be over at Love Your Plane in Oxford.

We wish them all the very best.

Make sure you come and visit.

{You can find Old Made in Relics of Witney until Saturday 28th June.}

Relics of Witney Limited

Tel: 01993 704611

Fax: 01993 380029

www.relicsofwitney.co.uk

www.twitter.com/relicsofwitney

The Best Grey Paints

2014-06-02T05:28:00.002-07:00

We're often asked our recommendations for the best grey paint colours. Our answer is always the same: where will you be using the paint? Is this a grey paint for use in a warm, sunny bedroom, or a cool, urban kitchen? Or do you want a grey front door? Or shed?

Grey sample pot

Grey paint, you see, is rarely simply a blend of black and white. In fact, any paint worth its salt will contain a gamut of subtle colour additions that make each grey absolutely unique; it's the complexity of these added hues that create the paint's undertones.

Grey living room

For paint advice that's absolutely suited to your needs, get in contact with the Relics team; we'd love to help you find that perfect grey paint. However, for the purposes of this post, we'll first recommend our current favourite grey front door paints, and then our favourite grey wall colours.

The Best Grey Front Door Paints

Farrow and Ball Railings is the colour to choose if you want a classic black door with a contemporary twist. Railings is a soft, dark grey with a hint of deepest blue in full sun.

Front door in Farrow and Ball Railings

Farrow and Ball Down Pipe is a mid-dark grey with a hint of teal in warmer light. As the images below show so effectively, Down Pipe is a colour that springs to life as a front door paint whether placed against brick, stone or painted exteriors.

Front door in Farrow and Ball Down Pipe

Farrow and Ball Plummet, which is a paler version of Down Pipe, and fast gaining more and more popularity, has a coolly sophisticated charm of its own:

Farrow and Ball Plummett conservatory

Little Greene Scree is a true mid-grey. Bold and moody, it's a grey paint that looks great teamed with red brick houses:

Front Door Painted in Little Greene's 'Scree'

Here's a good illustration of how Little Greene Scree sits on the grey paint spectrum. Eggs painted in Little Greene Loft White, Shallows, Inox, Pink Slip, Urbane Grey, Teal, Scree and Lamp Black.

Eggs painted in Little Greene Loft White, Shallows, Inox, Pink Slip, Urbane Grey, Teal, Scree and Lamp Black.

Dulux Weathershield products are outstanding in quality, and have some beautifully subtle grey shades. Dulux Goosewing is a soft putty grey with gentle green undertones.

House front exterior in Dulux Goosewing paint

The Best Grey Paints For Interiors

For those of you who want a grey paint that appears truly grey, choose Manor House Gray from Farrow and Ball.

Farrow & Ball's Manor House Gray

Choose Farrow and Ball Lamp Room Gray for a grey that manages to appear quite warm, despite having a cool blue undertone.

Farrow and Ball Lamp Room Gray.

For a gentler take on grey paint, try Farrow and Ball Cornforth White: neutral and soft, this is a grey that let's a rooms' bones speak for themselves.

Farrow and Ball Cornforth White

Little Greene French Grey is an excellent choice for a grey painted kitchen that will stand the test of time. It's possible to juxtapose it with a whole host of other colours and French Grey will still look beautiful. Bold brights, soft neutrals, gleaming whites and darker greys all work with this classic stony grey.

Little Greene French Grey

Little Greene French Grey and Dark Lead

Dulux Dusted Moss is an excellent choice of grey paint if you want a limited palette to run throughout your house for harmonious continuity. It comes in four shades from a dark green-grey to the palest off-white.

Dulux Dusted Moss

And, for those of you who love a bit of colour, next month we'll be looking at our favourite emerald hues...

Images via: Wilko, Housetohome, voysey and jones, Lifebylotte, kate bishop, klaus and heidi, pistonheads, emma turner, just fab design, Little Greene, antony georgiou, Little Greene, Dulux, apartment therapy, nice kitchens, Claire Carlos, New kitchens, bryan turner, higham, Maple & Gray, harvey jones, Abigail Ahern

How To Use Osmo Country Colours On Exterior Wood

2014-05-01T06:24:00.003-07:00

We've talked in previous posts how much we love Osmo products....

...and shown how you can use Osmo in your home to create a range of beautiful finishes.

Let's turn our attention now using Osmo products outside. Spring is the perfect time for prepping your garden to create a place that you find yourself wanting to spend time in throughout the (hopefully) long summer ahead.

Osmo Country Colour is an opaque satin-matt finish for interior and exterior woodwork. Osmo's products are based on natural vegetable oils, which makes them a fully eco-conscious choice. In fact, they comply with EURO Norm EN 71, which means that they would even be suitable for manufacturing children’s toys.

Osmo Country Colours are deeply pigmented, which will cover the colour and grain of the wood you are treating but still allow some texture to show through, maintaining the integrity of the wood and ensuring a rustic finish.

They come in 18 colours, which can be blended together, or you can pick your own from any RAL or NCS colour tones to create your own custom mix.

Osmo products are thoroughly economical. They cover in only two coats, which act as a base coat and topcoat, with no need for primer. Osmo Country Colours are ideal to renew previously stained, weathered and discoloured wood surfaces, or to give fresh new timber a fantastic start with protection and beauty for many years

Microporous finishes allow wood to breathe, which reduces the risk of both swelling and shrinkage, which are common problems for wood that is intended for exterior use. The natural oils contained in the product penetrate deeply into the wood, rather than sitting on the surface, which keeps it elastic and healthy, preventing it from getting dry and brittle. Moisture can evaporate. Osmo Country Colours are extremely water-repellent, as well as UV-resistant and are designed to thoroughly resist mould, algae and fungal attacks.

Make sure that the surface to be covered is clean, dry and frost-free. Stir Osmo Country Colour well. Apply, with a stiff, good quality brush, evenly, very thinly and thoroughly along the wood grain. Allow 12 hours drying time. Then apply your second coat.

Many wood preservers tend to become flaky after prolonged exposure to the elements, which brings us to one of Osmo's best features. It will not flake, peel, blister or crack. For maintenance, only one reapplication is needed but the wood will not need sanding.

Osmo recommend Country Colour for timber cladding, balconies, windows and sills, garden houses, garden furniture, pergolas, decking, screens, fences and shutters.

If you have any questions, we're here to help...

All images via Osmo, except Living etc, Relics of Witney, The Telegraph, Osmo, Osmo, Osmo, Osmo, Osmo, Copthorne House, Osmo, Osmo