Hand and Lock Embroidery

The skill that goes from hand to hand

Back in 1969, Hand & Lock work was already recognized as among the finest in London west end. Read below how Mr.Hand passed on years of tradition.

Passing on the secret skills of the trade is normal practice. That is what is happening here -but with a slight difference.

Albert Richards, 92, works at the wheel; watching him is his “apprentice” Mr. Derek Hand. Seventy-eight years ago Mr. richard started work with Mr. Hand’s grandfather.

Now this Mr. Hand is head of the firm and Mr. Richards due to retire soon, is teaching him.

Mr. Richards, who lives in Wood Green, uses machinery now more than 100 years old to make sashes and cords which are worn on ceremonial occasions by monarchs throughout the world and by regiments of the British Army. They are produced in the firm’s premises in Lexington Street, Westminster.

Evening Standard, Monday October 27, 1969.

Posted on Monday, February 25th, 2008 at 1:59 pm. Read on: In the press.
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