Case Study: Solidwool Ceramics with Steve Cook

We’re always inspired by creative minds. Thinking of news ways to do things is the key to progress and change, and we recently discovered the work of Steve Cook, a a self-taught potter who is doing just that.

After a successful career in business, Steve launched his studio, Modern Ceramic, in early 2023, citing his influences as contemporary architecture, Scandinavian and Japanese design, biological structures, sci-fi, and avant-garde fashion.

Our introduction to Steve came when he contacted us to ask about using some of our Solidwool off cuts to incorporate into his ceramic work; we were of course intrigued!

Inspired by finding harmony in the combination and juxtaposition of ceramics with other materials such as wood and sustainable plastic, looking at the work Steve created - the choice to incorporate Solidwool all made sense.

Ceramics, although experiencing a modern revival is a craft about as ancient as they come, using materials from the land to create functional ware, or sculptural art pieces. It is this link to nature that connects Solidwool with the considered clay bodies of Steve’s work, resulting in something really quite special.

Ceramic jars with Solidwool lids | Steve Cook Modern Ceramics

Steve uses a combination of techniques such as wheel throwing as well as more modern experimental methods such as CNC to create these refined forms.

We we’re so inspired by Steve’s work we asked if we could feature some of his bowls in a recent photoshoot alongside our placemats and coasters. The natural colour palette and organic forms are a match made in heaven.

Steve Cook Ceramic Bowls and Solidwool Welsh Mountain Placemats

We recently spoke to Steve about how he first came across Solidwool and he shared with us that he was inspired to buy a side table after seeing us on Instagram.

“Once I saw the material up close and it's unique patterning and detail I knew I wanted to make it a part of some of my work. It's great to work with and complements my ceramic glazes perfectly - I'm so glad it's now available in sheet form and I don't have to beg for offcuts anymore !”

Find more information about Steve and Modern Ceramics on his website, where you can find his portfolio and more information about events, galleries and stockists.

Shop Solidwool placemats and coasters or find our more about the possibilities of our Sheet Material.

Introducing Solidwool Colour

At Solidwool we are always looking for exciting new ways to work with our incredible material, but not everything we do needs to be ‘new’ or follow trends. Instead we dedicate our time to creating enduring and functional design that captures our environment and passion for hardy British wool. 

We experimented in colour quite a few years ago now, but stepped away from it to concentrate on perfecting and advancing the Herdwick Hembury chair. With our efforts rewarded, we have found the space to revisit colour in Solidwool, developing an organic and natural palette blending Welsh Mountain wool with seven inspired tones. These colours are a response to our surroundings - from moss and ochre-tinged lichen to the ancient stone and bark they grow on. 

Introducing colour has not come without its trials and challenges, but we have found a technique which introduces colour alongside a recycled wool core and we are so pleased with the outcome. The seven complementary tones sit seamlessly alongside each other as well as our original dark grey Herdwick and marbled Welsh Mountain composites, enabling you to choose any number of beautiful combinations for your home. Create striking schemes by combining Tan and Cobalt alongside grounding neutral tones or use Ochre, Forest and Stone to reflect the colours of our ever changing surroundings.

The Solidwool Colour chairs and side tables are available with the same choices of finish as the Herdwick and Welsh Mountain pieces. With scorched or oiled ash legs available for both chairs and side tables, and the added option of recycled steel stacking legs available for the chairs.