Melanie Porter

As a little girl, she would visit her granny at work in the haberdashery section at Bakers department store.

I fell in love with Melanie Porter’s rich, delicious knitted furnishings during the launch of Mydeco’s autumn/winter collection two months ago. As editor of Mydeco, I try not to pander too much to the trends of the day – and I mean ‘day’ quite literally. How long did the doily ‘comeback’ last, hmm? So the collection draws on independent boutique designers and their latest handmade, unique designs.

I love her pink and yellow coral ‘Percy’ Union Jack cushion, but she’s really made her mark with knitted chairs. ‘To a certain extent, I let the chair lead the design and knit structure,’ says Melanie. ‘I’ll sketch a rough idea but it’s quite an organic process and so I allow myself the freedom to change things as I go along.’

Why buy now?

Melanie Porter is by no means a new name. For 10 years she worked as a knitwear designer for the likes of Burberry and Pure Collection. ‘Although I loved my job in fashion, I really missed the hands-on creativity of actually making something,’ she explains.

Her ‘knitwear’ ranges from clocks and cushions to seating and lamps. And the most un-assuming part of her work? She’s still using the tools her grandfather passed down to her. So you know you’re buying into a labour of love, created with the finest wool, and with tools that have years of experience. And remember I’m not talking about a knitted scarf or jumper here, but unique upholstery that brings a whole new meaning to soft furnishings.

www.melanieporter.co.uk

One to Watch | ,