Once again Evan, LANX Partnerships Manager, has hit the road in search of some ‘proper people’ and landed at the doors of 1838 Wall Coverings. Tucked away on the back streets of Clayton-le-Moors, roll upon roll of luxury wallpaper is expertly manufactured on surface print machines that are over 100 years old.
AN ARRAY OF COLOUR
On a very frosty Monday morning we made the short journey from LANX HQ to meet James Watson. James and his sister, Abigail, are the current custodians of 1838 Wall Coverings and are now the 4th generation of their family driving this wonderful craft forward.
As we stepped through the doors, we were greeted by an array of vivid colours and bold patterns—a scene that perfectly matches what you'd imagine the reception of a wallpaper printing company to look like.
THE GRAND TOUR
Before we knew it, we were whisked away by James and taken on a tour of the factory and what a well-oiled machine it is. Everywhere we went we were greeted with warm good mornings and team member upon team member eager to talk about the parts they play. From creating new and exciting designs to hand mixing ink in every colour imaginable, the expertise and artistry that goes into every roll of paper is testament to how 1838 seamlessly blend tradition and innovation.
KEEPING TRADITIONS ALIVE
We were then introduced to what James refers to as the businesses ‘pride and joy’, 4 irreplaceable surface print machines. Still very much in full working order (at over 100 years old) and proving that sometimes the traditional methods are still the best. These machines give an immaculate hand painted look that a modern digital printer just can’t replicate. Now are you starting to see why these machines are so important to James?
ECO-FRIENDLY
The printing might be traditional but it certainly doesn’t mean the business is stuck in the past. Sustainability is at the heart of everything they do, using only water-based, non-toxic inks and eco non-woven bases. You can be safe in the knowledge that when you decorate your home with 1838 wallpaper, you have made an eco-friendly choice.
By the time your wallpaper reaches your home each roll at least 10 people have been involved in the meticulous creation process.
With our heads buzzing with patterns, colours and textures our grand tour came to an end much sooner than Evan wanted it too. 1838 is a true gem tucked away in the heart of Lancashire.
PROPER PEOPLE BLOG BY LANX
We’re a bunch of Proper People here at LANX HQ and we’d like to shine a spotlight on fellow good’ens in the local area. Interesting people doing interesting things! If they’re Lancashire based, even better, but we might stray to Cumbria or Yorkshire on the odd occasion.
