My marble paper designs bring a modern touch to this ancient craft

 Marbler and founder of Inq, Florence Saumarez

- SHARON PARSONS

Florence Saumarez believes there's an alchemy to the art of marbling - the ancient craft of transferring swirling paint patterns to paper. The Bath-based artisan has been producing her unique designs for just a little over five years, but in that time her natural aptitude for this centuries-old skill has enabled her to forge a new and successful career. My background is actually in architectural design,' she explains, but I wanted to start my own business which could grow and evolve. I also wanted to tap into something that felt authentic and creative. I just wasn't sure what that was!"

The opportunity presented itself unexpectedly when she happened across old film footage from the 1970s showing a marbler at work. I was mesmerised by the process,' she recalls. It was astonishing to watch something so beautiful develop before my eyes, like magic.'

In traditional marbling, a shallow tank is filled with a thick fluid called carrageenan (a seaweed extract), then droplets of diluted gouache paint are trickled or flicked on top, so that they float on the surface. These are then manipulated using marbling combs to create shapes and patterns. Finally, paper is laid gently on top, the pattern transfers to it, and the paper is then hung to dry. Each pattern and shade variation is unique.

I was really keen to try it for myself and took a lesson with talented paper marbler Jemma Lewis, Florence says. 'Something clicked; I realised this could be the new direction I'd been looking for. I've never had a fear of giving something a go-or indeed failing!'