We're thrilled to share that Kate Hawkins' Spongeware in Blue has won Best Bold Design in Fabrics at this year's Homes & Gardens Design Awards.

Part of our Mochaware collection, Spongeware reimagines the iconic Staffordshire pottery style in the form of fabric, a celebration of the craft and the utilitarian ethos behind it.

Spongeware is inspired by the dendritic, tree like patterns frequently found in Mochaware. These were made by applying an acidic tea mixture to an alkaline slip surface which would cause a chemical reaction at the point of contact. For Spongeware, Kate used a natural sea sponge dipped in a coloured paint to mimic those natural marks.

With a 20,000 rub count, Spongeware is a versatile fabric, suitable for domestic upholstery. In homage to the original mochaware pieces, this fabric is practical and personable, both in its composition and its aesthetic.

Long fascinated by Mochaware, Kate spent hours in her studio experimenting with different materials to try and emulate the potters' style in the form of fabric and wallpaper. Read more about the creation of the collection on our Sketchbook: Manifesto for Mochaware.