The Speculating Rook began with a single cushion, where Anna’s unique process of drawing with thread on a vintage wool blanket transformed the cushion into a tactile illustration. This creative spark led to the development of a distinctive collection of embroidered and screen-printed textiles.
Introducing Anna Osborne, the visionary behind The Speculating Rook. Her meticulously crafted free-machine embroidered pouches, tool wraps, and cushions are now available in our shop, blending functionality with the artistic flair that echoes the essence of David Parr House.
We recently had the pleasure of spending time with Anna Osborne at her studio in the Haddenham Arts Centre. Engaging in conversation about her passion for textiles and her first visit to the David Parr House was truly inspiring. Anna’s admiration for the house was evident as she shared her thoughts on its historical significance and captivating interiors.
“I loved it,” Anna enthused about her visit. “Such an amazing thing to have in Cambridge. I can’t imagine having lived there. The social history aspect of it, I find completely fascinating.”
Anna was particularly struck by the painting in the hallway, describing it as “unexpected” even though she knew what to expect. “The detail and the quality of workmanship is just incredible,” she notes. What resonated most with her was the contrast between the 1960s, when Elsie Palmer lived there, and the earlier period when David Parr was at work. “How Elsie hadn’t changed anything—you get glimpses of layers of work. It’s amazing that it has been preserved in the way it has—hats off to Elsie!”
Anna’s work stands out for its use of vintage blankets and repurposed fabrics, including printed cotton, worn denim, silk velvet, and linen. These materials, rich in history and texture, serve as the perfect backdrop for her intricate designs. Anna uses her sewing machine as a drawing tool, where the needle acts as her pen and the fabric her canvas. Each cushion, she says, is “more like an old friend”—a piece of art with its own story to tell.
