The Abbey England Podcraft

Abbey England Ltd
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The Abbey England Podcraft is dedicated to discussing industry insights with fellow suppliers, customers and leading industry experts within the equestrian and leather industry. Join Ishbel Watson as she sits down with the experts to discuss everything from processes to best practices, top tips, secrets and more.

  1. 15h ago

    From a British Atelier to a Global Luxury Brand: The Future of House of Swaine

    What does it take to survive almost 300 years in business — and still have the ambition to reinvent yourself? In this episode of the Abbey England Podcraft, Ishbel Watson sits down with Monty Corry, Brand Director at House of Swaine, to explore the remarkable story behind one of Britain’s oldest luxury brands. Dating back to 1750, House of Swaine has weathered wars, changing consumer tastes, economic uncertainty and the rise of international luxury houses. Today, the business is entering an exciting new chapter, expanding internationally with stores in destinations including Los Angeles, Washington and Switzerland, while remaining firmly committed to its British roots and craftsmanship. Monty shares an honest insight into the challenges of taking a historic brand into the modern world — from knowing when to diversify and when to return to your core, to reaching new audiences without losing the customers and values that built the brand. We also explore the growing appeal of British-made luxury, the rise of female customers, the role of bespoke craftsmanship and how modern technology is allowing heritage brands to tell multiple stories without losing their identity. But perhaps the biggest question is what happens when the skills behind that craftsmanship begin to disappear. Monty talks openly about the importance of apprenticeships, passing knowledge between generations and changing perceptions of craft as a career — arguing that British craftsmanship has a genuine opportunity to enter a new golden age. From 18th-century whips and saddles to bespoke leather goods in California, this is a fascinating conversation about heritage, reinvention, craftsmanship and what it takes to build a British luxury brand for the future. Listen now to discover how House of Swaine is honouring its past while boldly looking towards its next 300 years.

    From a British Atelier to a Global Luxury Brand: The Future of House of Swaine

  2. Sep 30

    Life at 100 with Yvonne Brown

    In this very special episode, we sit down with Yvonne Brown, affectionately known to us all as Toppy. Toppy founded Abbey England alongside her late husband,Gerald Brown, back in 1982. This summer, Toppy reached the incredible milestone of her 100th birthday. In this very special conversation, Toppy takes us back toher childhood, opens up about her experiences and trauma, shares memories of her time in Venezuela, and tells us what led her and Gerald to start Abbey England. But there is one key message Toppy leaves us with: aprofound testament to living a simple life. We don’t need much. We need a caring and loving family tosee us through, to always be there for one another, and to support the people who need us. This is a truly special conversation with an extraordinarywoman, and one we are incredibly proud to share with you.

    Life at 100 with Yvonne Brown

  3. 09/12/2025

    Traceable, Tangible, Transformative: A New Model for Ethical Leather with British Pasture Leather.

    In the final episode of Season 7, host Ishbel Watson is joined by Alice Robinson and Sarah Grady, co-founders of British Pasture Leather—a pioneering initiative connecting fashion with regenerative agriculture. Together, they unpack how British Pasture Leather is reshaping perceptions of leather by sourcing hides from pasture-fed, high-welfare farms certified by Pasture for Life. Alice and Sarah share the origins of their collaboration,the challenges of building a fully traceable UK-based leather supply chain, and their deep commitment to ethical sourcing, craftsmanship, and environmental accountability. They discuss what it takes to create leather that supports positive farming practices, and how their work is challenging mainstream narratives around sustainability, animal welfare, and design. With clients like Mulberry, Navy Grey, and Billy Tanneryalready on board, British Pasture Leather is proving that transparency, traceability, and high-quality materials can coexist. Tune in for a conversation that offers a fresh, honest look at leather's place in a more responsible future for fashion and design. Get 25% OFF Order Alice’s book Field Fork Fashion here and use the exclusive code POD25 at checkout to save 25%.

    Traceable, Tangible, Transformative: A New Model for Ethical Leather with British Pasture Leather.

  4. 08/29/2025

    Cut from a Different Hide: Bridie Rimmer’s Fashion Revolution.

    In this episode, host Ishbel Watson speaks with Bridie Rimmer, founder of Luxe Rebel Leather Co, about her journey as a self-taught leatherworker. Bridie shares her passion for heirloom fashion, custom craftsmanship, and sustainable design. They explore the emotional depth of bespoke pieces, how fashion empowers identity, and the value of transparency in material sourcing. Bridie also discusses the challenges of pricing, working in a male-dominated industry, and how she’s building a more inclusive and mindful leather community.

    Cut from a Different Hide: Bridie Rimmer’s Fashion Revolution.

  5. 08/15/2025

    Reworking the Hide: Orthopaedics, Industry Shifts & Reviving the Trade

    In this episode, host, Ishbel Watson sits down James Boston, Managing Director of Waltham Tannery. James shares what it means to carry forward a fourth-generation leather legacy rooted in Garston Tanning, founded in 1899. He discusses Waltham’s evolution, orthopaedic innovations, and the art of custom leatherwork. From industry shifts and sustainability to recruiting the next generation, James offers sharp insight and bold ideas—like "sexing up" the trade—to keep UK leather relevant. We also explore the Leathersellers’ Project and the future of craftsmanship in a changing global market.

    Reworking the Hide: Orthopaedics, Industry Shifts & Reviving the Trade

  6. 08/01/2025

    Tiffany Parkinson: 38 Years of Craftsmanship, Reinvention, and Passion

    In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Tiffany Parkinson, Master Saddler, Bridle Maker, and now bespoke knife-maker at Savernake Knives. Tiffany takes us on a journey through her three-decade-long career in traditional craftsmanship — from her early apprenticeship days with Kay Hastilow, to her days at EJ Wicks, to receiving a prestigious QEST scholarship, and winning accolades for her award-winning side saddle work. We explore what it means to dedicate your life to a craft,the joy and discipline behind mastering leatherwork, and how Tiffany made a bold and creative pivot into the world of knife-making in 2024. She opens up about the emotional and technical transition between industries, the surprising connections between leather and steel, and how her past continues to shape her present. Tiffany also shares valuable insights into mentorship, the importance of community in craft-based careers, and advice for anyone looking to enter the artisan world. Whether you're a fellow craftsperson, a lover of handmade artistry, or simply curious about the intersections of tradition and innovation — this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and the unmistakable passion of a true maker.

    Tiffany Parkinson: 38 Years of Craftsmanship, Reinvention, and Passion

  7. 07/18/2025

    From Hide to High-Tech: Reinventing Leather for a Sustainable World

    An inside look at how Scottish Leather Group hasreduced its carbon intensity by 90%, and the pioneering processes behind it. In today’s conversation, we explore how Scottish Leather Group's rich history has shaped its modern identity, the key innovations that have driven it forward, and what it takes to blend centuries-old craftsmanship with future-focused solutions. We’ll also dig into SLG’s commitment to local sourcing, its partnerships across sectors like automotive, aviation, and luxury goods, and its passion for preserving the leather-making craft for generations to come.

    From Hide to High-Tech: Reinventing Leather for a Sustainable World

  8. 06/06/2025

    Pushing the Boundaries of Craftsmanship with Mark Boddington.

    In the season 7 premiere of Abbey England Podcraft,Ishbel Watson sits down with Mark Boddington, founder of the renowned bespoke furniture maker, Silverlining. Mark shares his journey in high-end furniture design, the joy of storytelling through craftsmanship, and how Silverliningaims to create pieces worthy of museum collections. From insights into emerging global markets, to the role of AI in today's craft industry and invaluable advice for aspiring artisans, this episode is packed with inspiration for anyone passionate about design, business, or craft.

    Pushing the Boundaries of Craftsmanship with Mark Boddington.
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About

The Abbey England Podcraft is dedicated to discussing industry insights with fellow suppliers, customers and leading industry experts within the equestrian and leather industry. Join Ishbel Watson as she sits down with the experts to discuss everything from processes to best practices, top tips, secrets and more.

Information

  • Creator
    Abbey England Ltd
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Abbey England Ltd
  • Show Website
    The Abbey England Podcraft

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