The Anniversary

To all customers and friends of the Saint Bede Studio and those who simply read this blog from time to time, Greetings for 2011.  Having benefitted from a holiday immersed in Sacred Liturgy and Organ Music, work here at the Studio has resumed in earnest.

I ask your prayers for the peoples of Brazil, Sri Lanka and eastern Australia who have been tragically affected by devastating floods in the past two weeks.

This year marks the 10th year since the Saint Bede Studio commenced operations and perhaps this is an opportunity to describe a little of what goes on here.

At work in 2008 on the chasuble for Benedict XVI

The major focus of the work here is the design and making of vestments.  Much consideration goes into all the designs, based on years of research into the history of sacred vestments and furnishings.  The vestment-work of the Studio is intended to be a re-interpretation of ancient and mediaeval designs for modern use, so that always the end product can be seen as a continuity with the breadth of Sacred Tradition, not as innovation.

The design of church furnishings, renovations and redecorations is also work that is undertaken by the Studio from time to time, again, based on years of study into the architectural and ornamental styles.

Having been fortunate enough to make a good reputation for the Studio's work internationally, I am anxious that people understand the very modest scale of operations here.  Although based in the provincial city of Newcastle in Australia, most of my work is done for overseas customers.  I work from my own home, without the benefit of a special sewing room, but using high-quality machines.  One room of my home is given over to the storage of fabrics, making interesting viewing for those visiting me.  I receive part-time help from a sewing assistant, a secretary and two cats, which allows me to keep the work ticking over.  Keeping abreast of the work is a daily struggle, but thanks be to God for every new commission that appears in my e-mail box.

Say a prayer, please, that God will continue to bless this work; and thank you, if you are already doing so.