Marthe, Marthe, oh... Marthe.

It shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone that craftsmen are a dying breed.

There are however, a handful of devotees out there still making their livelihood from pre-industrial revolution means. These folks are busy creating masterpieces the "slow" way - with care, precision and pride.

Marthe Armitage is the perfect embodiment of a true artisan. Using hand-cut lino blocks, Marthe crafts unbelievably beautiful wallpapers and fabrics, all on an antique 19th century off-set lithographic printing press (which she has been using since the early 1960's).

Inspired by nature, her images are perfectly organic and yet stylistic at the same time. It's hard to imagine any of her designs ever going out of style.

Pushing 80 years old, Marthe continues to hone her skills, and produce prints everyday. If that's not the true spirit of craftsmanship, I'm not sure what is.

Here is where you can find her current collection.

All images by Gardens Illustrated Magazine

Comments

[Tamra of walkswithBella]

I'm obsessed with wallpaper! I live in an apartment and I love wallpaper so much I want to break the rules and put some up. This woman is inspiring! Nice share.

tamrasanford.blogspot.com

[Mary Ellen]

Thanks Tamra! She is an inspiration for us all!

[onesilentwinter]

stunning, very inspiring

[Jane]

SO beautiful! A dying breed indeed. I love the imperfections that manual production allows for. Great find:) xx, Jane

[thefolia]

I hope to be like Marthe--a spirit that continues to bring joy and beauty!