In the vibrant world of creativity, hidden gems often sparkle brightest in the most unexpected places.

Recently, we received an email from Antonia Lawes, a jewellery maker that left us astonished and inspired. Based in Hatton Garden, Antonia shared with us her remarkable creation — an unconventional and never-before-seen decorative pillow crafted entirely from SELVYT cloths!

Traditionally only used for polishing and cleaning within jewellery workshops, our SELVYT SR cloth found a surprising new purpose in the hands of this insightful artist. What started as a humble necessity in her workspace blossomed into a uniquely beautiful decorative pillow, defying norms and solidifying our statement that SELVYT cloths can be used for almost anything!

So, where did this idea come from? We had a chat with Antonia about her life, her business and where the inspiration for the SELVYT cushion came from! 

How did you initially discover SELVYT cloths, and what drew you to use them in your everyday work?

For as long as I can remember, they’ve been scattered around every corner of my fathers workshop. I practically grew up with them. I sit next to my dad (David Lawes) now in that very same workshop, and come to think of it, I’m sure there are a couple of SELVYT cloths hanging about that are even older than me! SELVYT cloths have become so synonymous with the jewellery trade to me, often it being the last thing that touches my jewellery before I hand it over to the customer, they’re an important finishing touch to all of my work.

What specific qualities of SELVYT cloths make them your preferred choice for cleaning and polishing your creations?

Just like all of my tools, the most important thing I look for is consistency and reliability. SELVYT cloths fit this criteria perfectly. Being able to wash them and for them to still work as if brand new again is so important, especially where sustainability is concerned. So many other products are one-use-only these days. It’s an investment that saves me money in the long run, as well as the planet.

Can you describe the creative process behind making the cushion?

My mission started by heading over the road to one of my tool suppliers Walsh H S & Sons, where I purchased some beautiful, crisp, clean SELVYT cloths. I was debating whether to reuse old cloths, but my old cloths are still perfectly usable for polishing. I had originally planned to save this side quest for my weekend, but I was far too excited with the vision of an adorable frilly cushion in my head, so got to work almost immediately. As I got out my sewing machine (that I happened to have in the workshop from a recent unusual commission where I sewed a new velvet sash for a mayor’s chain). A pile of half-finished engagement rings stared at me from my work bench but I ignored their cries as I tried to recall my late nana’s instructions on how to backstitch, roll hem, and gather, etc. until I finished my cushion. I think it must have taken around an hour or so. (not including the time it took me to re-thread the needle far more times than I’d care to admit).

What are your plans for the cushion now it is done?

My plan is to just enjoy it as a cute throw cushion in my home, however as previously mentioned, SELVYT clothes are usually the last thing that touches my jewellery before handing it over to the customer, so I could use it as a grand presentation cushion and really formalise the experience of the hand over for my clients. Cue the Trumpets!

Do you use SELVYT cloths in your day-to-day work, and if so, how?

I use SELVYT cloths in my day to day work, especially after completing a ring, it’s the last step to get my fingerprints off of the metal and gemstones before putting them in their box ready to go to their new owner.

Finally, Tell us a little about yourself and your business

I’m Antonia Lawes,  a second generation jeweller with 9 years in the trade, taught by both of my parents in traditional goldsmithing, jewellery design and gem sourcing based in the heart of London’s famous Hatton Garden.  Specialising in coloured gemstones and diamonds, I pride myself on sourcing unique and rare coloured sapphires and traditionally hand crafting bespoke ring mounts and settings to be loved for generations. I love all things craft and design based and have turned my hands to pottery, painting, sewing, weaving. I also love to cook and try new recipes.

We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to Antonia for sharing her incredible work with us. Her innovative use of SELVYT cloths as the foundation of her creation has left us inspired. Antonia’s story reminds us that SELVYT cloths have endless potential and can go far beyond any expectations when compared to standard polishing cloths! 

@AntoniaLawes | www.antonialawes.com