Q&A with Molly Mahon

Molly Mahon is a luxury British interior brand that blends ancient block printing techniques from India with contemporary, colourful design. Their handcrafted collections bring joy, individuality and timeless charm to the home.

We loved catching up with founder Molly to learn more about the brand, her inspiration and her tips for styling Molly Mahon designs at home.

Where did your love for block printing begin?

Block printing captured me from the first moment I lifted the block at a workshop I attended out of a desire for creativity. I connected instantly because the art form is both ancient and alive, it instantly captivated me. I was mesmerised by the rhythm of the process - the carving, the inking, the printing and by the beauty of the imperfections. It felt soulful and expressive; I knew immediately that this was something I wanted to explore further.

We understand that all your blocks are hand carved, making each piece unique. Please could you tell us more about your design process?

Everything begins with a drawing that I sketch by hand - often I’m inspired by flowers, leaves or simple shapes. I refine the design until it feels playful, but balanced. From there, blocks are carved by hand in Indian by master craftsmen and colours tested repeatedly until they feel just right. There’s a moment when the print suddenly feels alive, that’s when I know it’s finished.

How important is it that part of the manufacturing process still remains in India?

It’s incredibly important to me. India is where I first fell in love with block printing and the craft has such deep roots there. Working with skilled artisans helps keep these traditional techniques alive. It feels like a true collaboration across cultures.

Where do you look for inspiration?

Nature is my biggest source of inspiration, especially wild gardens, flowers and the changing seasons. I’m also inspired by my travels, especially to Indian, where vintage textiles, folk art and everyday moments, like a colour combination spotted on a walk or a pattern on an old tiled floor. Inspiration often comes when I least expect it.

Who are your design heroes?

I’m inspired by artists and designers who embrace colour and craftsmanship without fear. I also hugely admire traditional makers whose names we may never know, their work has such honesty and beauty, and it reminds me that design doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful.

Your patterns are known for injecting personality and vibrant colour. How important is colour to you?

Colour is at the heart of everything I do. It brings joy, energy and emotion into a home. I love bold, happy colours and experimenting with combinations that feel uplifting and a little unexpected. 

Do you have any expert advice or principles for layering pattern and colour?

I always say, be brave and trust your instinct! Start with a pattern you really love, then build around it using colours that echo or complement it. Mixing patterns works beautifully when there’s a shared colour running through them. And remember, homes should feel lived in and personal, not overly perfect.

What is your favourite design and why?

That changes all the time, but I’m often drawn to the designs that feel the most handmade - the ones where you can really see the block print process at work. They feel full of life and tell a story, which is what I love most about block printing.

How important is sustainability to you?

Sustainability is a core part of my work. Block printing is naturally a slower, more considered process and I love that it encourages us to value things that are made to last. I believe in creating pieces that people will cherish for years, not just for a season. Everything in my studio in India is non-toxic, I believe in being kind to the environment.

What piece of advice would you give to someone looking to use your designs in their home?

Don’t be afraid to go all in with pattern and colour. Using Jane Clayton’s made to measure service offers something really special as you can have my designs made into curtains, blinds, cushions or headboards, which can really transform a space and make it feel special and unique to you. Those tailored elements often become the heart of a room and are a wonderful way to bring personality into your home.

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