A Little Christmas Magic at Alchemy Tiles – You're Invited! 🎄
Christmas Open Studio | Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th November 2026
There's something rather special about giving a gift that has been made by hand. Something created with care, thought and intention. A piece that holds a story, celebrates a memory or simply brings a little beauty into someone's everyday life.
This November, I'm opening the doors of the Alchemy Tiles studio in Mawnan Smith, Cornwall, for a very special Christmas weekend, and I'd absolutely love you to join me!
Whether you're looking for a meaningful Christmas gift, a personalised decoration for your tree, inspiration for a bespoke commission, or you're simply curious to see where the magic happens, everyone is warmly welcome.
🎄 Discover Christmas Decorations with a Difference
Christmas decorations have a wonderful way of becoming part of our family stories.
We bring them out year after year, remembering where they came from, who gave them to us and the special moments they represent.
Throughout the weekend, you'll be able to explore my collection of handmade ceramic Christmas decorations, each individually crafted and full of character.
And if you'd like something even more personal, you can place an order for a decoration created especially for you.
Perhaps a name, a special date, a favourite design or a little keepsake to celebrate a baby's first Christmas, a new home or someone dear to your heart.
Something to treasure this Christmas and for many more to come.
🎁 Thoughtful Gifts, Handmade in Cornwall
If you're looking for a gift that's a little different from the usual high street offerings, there will be plenty to discover.
From decorative tiles and ceramic coasters to functional pieces, trivets, modular table centrepieces and one-of-a-kind creations, there will be a lovely selection of work available to browse and purchase.
Every piece has been individually made by hand in my Cornish studio, using a centuries-old technique of carving and inlaying coloured clays.
Whether you're shopping for someone who seems to have everything or treating yourself to something beautiful, I hope you'll find something that speaks to you.
And, of course, I'll be very happy to chat about creating something entirely personal.
✨ Give Something Truly Personal
Some of the most meaningful gifts are those that could only ever belong to one person.
A family name carved into clay. A favourite animal or flower. A wedding date, a treasured memory, or words that hold a special meaning.
During the Open Studio, you'll have the opportunity to explore examples of previous personalised commissions and discuss ideas for your own.
From house signs and family crests to commemorative tiles, family trees, wedding keepsakes and personalised gifts, the possibilities are wonderfully varied.
If you have an idea in mind, however simple or elaborate, come and have a chat. I'd love to hear your story and explore how we might bring it to life.
Please note: As every personalised piece is individually made, orders placed during the weekend will be subject to available production time. If you're hoping for delivery before Christmas, I'd encourage you to discuss your ideas with me as early as possible.
👐 Step Inside the Alchemy Tiles Studio
One of the things I'm most looking forward to is welcoming visitors into the space where everything begins.
You'll have the opportunity to see the studio, discover the tools and materials I work with, and learn a little more about the traditional encaustic tile-making process that lies at the heart of Alchemy Tiles.
Unlike painted tiles, my designs are carved freehand directly into the clay, before being carefully inlaid with coloured clays.
It's a technique with roots stretching back to the 13th century, and one that I've spent years exploring and developing in my own way.
I'll be sharing the process, answering questions and showing how an idea gradually becomes a finished ceramic piece.
If you've ever wondered how my tiles are made, this is your chance to discover the story behind them.
🏡 Dreaming of Something Bespoke for Your Home?
Following an extraordinary first appearance at Decorex, where Alchemy Tiles was honoured with the Best Newcomer Award, I'm particularly excited to share more of my bespoke interior work.
From kitchen splashbacks and bathroom features to fireplaces, decorative wall installations and contemporary ceramic artwork, every commission begins with a conversation.
If you've been imagining something unique for your home, perhaps a design that reflects your surroundings, your passions or your family's story, the Open Studio is the perfect opportunity to explore the possibilities.
There will be examples of my work to see, and I'll be happy to talk through ideas, materials, designs and the commissioning process.
There's absolutely no obligation. Sometimes the most wonderful projects begin with a simple conversation.
❤️ More Than Just Christmas Shopping
For me, this weekend is about more than finding gifts.
It's an opportunity to open the doors, share the craft I love and connect with the people who make this creative journey so rewarding.
Whether you've followed Alchemy Tiles for years, have a piece of my work in your home or are discovering it for the very first time, I'd be delighted to welcome you.
Come and have a browse, ask questions, find inspiration and enjoy a little Christmas magic.
And perhaps discover something that will become part of your own story.
🎄 Christmas Open Studio – Everything You Need to Know
Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th November 2026
Time: 10.00 am – 5.00 pm
Where:
The Alchemy Tiles Studio
Goldmartin Garage
Mawnan Smith
Cornwall
TR11 5EW
Free entry and free parking
No appointment necessary – simply pop along whenever suits you during the weekend.
Whether you're coming to browse, buy, discuss a commission or simply say hello, I look forward to welcoming you.
With love and warmest wishes,
Mel ❤️
Founder & Artist, Alchemy Tiles
Crafted by Hand. Guided by Story. Held Eternal in Earth & Flame.
