We love to support up and coming Designers; having worked with Rachel previously straight out of University, we were delighted to give her the opportunity to feature in our September showcase. She included some special statement pieces in an array of Autumnal tones.

Rachel's work features a collection of sophisticated, mixed-material pieces that are playful and can be worn in a variety of ways. Her creations blur the line between wearable art and small-scale sculpture, inviting the wearer to engage in a personal and dynamic relationship with each piece. Every design is meticulously curated, with a focus on innovative material combinations that evoke curiosity and interaction.

Rachel's collection draws heavily from the mid-century modern aesthetic, a design movement known for its clean lines, bold contrasts, and minimalistic yet impactful forms. This influence is evident in her careful balance of geometric shapes, striking color palettes, and a harmonious mix of materials that are both sleek and organic. The use of Formica and walnut, iconic materials of the era, further reinforces this connection, adding a retro-futuristic edge to her jewellery.

Central to her practice is a process of "drawing with materials"—an exploratory method where form, geometry, and negative space converge into striking compositions. Linear forms and geometric structures are accented with bold splashes of color, culminating in statement brooches, earrings, and necklaces. Rachel’s use of materials such as enamel, Formica, walnut, and acrylic, alongside traditional jewellery techniques like setting and riveting, allows her to layer, stack, and fuse components in novel ways.

Earrings and brooches made by Rachel Butlin using formica and walnut.

Rachel's work embraces the ethos of ‘Modernity’ in design—simplicity, functionality, and beauty through restraint—while pushing these principles into the realm of contemporary jewellery. Her pieces echo the architectural and interior design elements of the period, with a focus on modernist purity and the interplay of form and space. The result is a collection that feels timeless yet innovative, seamlessly blending the nostalgic appeal of mid-century modern with a bold, forward-thinking vision. Each piece is a statement, embodying the elegance and artistic experimentation of this celebrated era, while allowing the wearer to become part of the creative process.

Her process is one of continuous evolution, starting from a singular concept and expanding through iterative experimentation. This approach unlocks new possibilities at every stage, resulting in pieces that are as visually compelling as they are conceptually rich.

Rachel Butlin September Showcase

Nurture