“hands from the past”

It means that the brand draws deep inspiration from historical methods, traditional crafts, and the artistry of bygone eras. It’s not just about nostalgia, but a genuine appreciation for the skill, dedication, and unique qualities found in pre-industrial or early industrial manufacturing techniques. 

• Honoring Traditional Skills: House of Thayer values and seeks to incorporate skills that were once commonplace but are now becoming rare. This includes techniques in chandlery (candle making), illustration, and potentially other crafts related to textiles. It’s about reviving and preserving these skills, recognizing their inherent value and the human touch they bring to each product.

• Emphasis on Craftsmanship: "Hands of the past" implies a focus on hand-made or meticulously crafted items. It’s a departure from mass production, instead prioritizing the individual attention and artistry that goes into each piece from candles to wallpaper to furniture.

• Historical Influence on Design: Designs and aesthetics are often influenced by styles and motifs from earlier periods. This can include vintage patterns, classic illustrations, and the overall look and feel of antique or historical items, such as the recently sourced vintage lithograph print "Peaceful Valley" (below). It’s about bringing a sense of history and timelessness to contemporary products.

• Sustainable Practices: In many cases, historical manufacturing methods were inherently more sustainable. By looking to the past, House of Thayer can find ways to reduce waste, use natural materials, and avoid the harmful chemicals often found in modern processes. Our use of plant-based inks, soy and coconut wax, and recycled paper all tie into this idea. Even the brass we’ve been casting in our original designs has been 100% recycled brass.

• Human Connection: "Hands of the past" evokes a sense of human connection and storytelling. Each item carries with it the history of its creation, the skill of the artisan, and the traditions that have been passed down through generations. This adds a layer of depth and meaning to the products. We value our relationship with our manufacturer in India for this very reason.

• Respect for Artisans: This phrase reflects a respect for the often-anonymous artisans who contributed to the development of these crafts. House of Thayer aims to honor their legacy by continuing their traditions and ensuring that these skills are not lost.

In essence, "inspired by the hands of the past" means that House of Thayer is committed to creating products that are not only beautiful and functional but also rich with history, skill, and a deep respect for traditional craftsmanship that simply makes sense in the 21st century.