Olivia Sewell’s illustrated tablecloths are made for the kind of meals people remember - birthdays, Sunday lunches, garden dinners, Christmas tables and slow Friday nights around the kitchen table.
Known for her joyful approach to interiors and storytelling through design, Olivia Sewell has built a brand that feels both timeless and playful. We speak with illustrator and designer Olivia Sewell, whose distinctive artwork has become known for its playful food motifs, nostalgic storytelling and beautifully expressive approach to homeware.
Olivia’s work sits perfectly within the modern interiors movement towards more joyful, character-filled living spaces. From her hand-painted illustrations to her much-loved tablecloths and prints, her designs encourage people to make everyday moments feel special.
In this conversation, Olivia shares how her brand began, where she finds inspiration, and why expressive, meaningful design has become such an important part of contemporary homes.
What inspired you to turn your illustrations and artistic style into a homeware and lifestyle brand?
Very early on, when I started selling my pieces, I painted a mackerel and I put it on Instagram. I had a handful of people tell me they had ‘fallen in love’ with this fish, it was quite funny. I realised that I could turn my original pieces into prints and make them available for everyone. The tablecloths and other homeware pieces came naturally after that. I learnt a lot through collaborations, working with some really fab brands.
Your work is full of playful food, travel and table-inspired motifs - where do you find inspiration for your collections and designs?
Everywhere, really - every day moments. And lots of summers spent in the South of France and Italy - long lunches, eating outside, sinking into it all - the sunshine, the food, the conversation.
How would you describe the Olivia Sewell aesthetic for someone discovering the brand for the first time?
Playful, bold, spontaneous. Will bring a little fun to your home/your space.
Why do you think expressive home décor and table linen has become so popular in modern interiors?
I think everyone loves a bit of personality and soul in their homes. They want their things to mean something, to tell a story about who they are and what they love.
For someone wanting to create a more joyful home, where would you suggest they start with art and styling?
I'd tell them to not think too hard about it - if you love it, and it brings you a little bit of joy - then go for it and pop it on the wall!
Many people are searching for ways to make everyday moments feel more special at home - how do your products encourage that feeling?
That really is the whole point - I want my paintings to catch your eye in the morning when you’re making coffee – remind you of someone or somewhere, a memory of something sweet. I read somewhere that when these tiny moments stack up it makes a life feel well lived.
Tablescaping and hosting at home continue to trend across social media and interiors magazines. What are your favourite ways to style a table for gatherings and relaxed dinners?
Good table linen is a good start. A mish mash of crockery and glassware always looks fun, and then it really all comes down to the food, the drink and mostly the company.
Your designs feel both nostalgic and contemporary at the same time. How do you balance timeless design with modern trends?
I'm not really a trends-led designer, which I think actually helps. I paint things I love, drawn from places and moments that have always felt timeless, I want them to still feel right in twenty years - like the fashion drawings you might find in an old Vogue. This, plus bold lines and a selective colour palette, ties the nostalgic and contemporary together really nicely.
Which interiors trends are you loving right now, and are there any trends you think will define homes in 2026?
Bringing lots of personality into the home is a big thing at the moment, making our homes look and feel like us – The more character the better – which I love.
Sustainability and thoughtful shopping are becoming increasingly important to customers. How does craftsmanship and quality influence your approach to creating products?
Every print and product is made with longevity in mind - I want people to keep my pieces for years, to pass them on. My table linen started with my love of tradition and bringing out a ‘birthday tablecloth’ each year. One that your kids will adore and your kid’s kids will be patching up.
In terms of materials - this really matters to me. My tablecloths are all 100% unbleached linen, and the paper I use is an eco-friendly bamboo paper. I think people are increasingly savvy about this, they can feel the difference between something made properly and something made quickly.
What does a perfect slow morning at home look like for you?
Everyone in the kitchen, good coffee, something nice for breakfast, the back door open, sunshine.
If someone was choosing their very first Olivia Sewell piece, which design would you recommend and why?
I’d tell them to go with their gut, their first choice - The one they’re immediately drawn to. I’d then suggest getting another one (haha!) I think they work really well as a pair or trio.
What's next for Olivia Sewell - are there any upcoming collections, collaborations or creative projects you're excited about?
I have a few really fun collaborations in the works. I’ve also been experimenting with oil on canvas, painting some larger pieces - I’m looking forward to sharing these later in the year. And then there is lots happening with my current artist residency with Maison Mirabeau – it’s the season!
Olivia Sewell’s work is a celebration of everyday beauty - from long lunches and travel memories to the small, meaningful moments at home that shape how we live. Her approach to illustration and homeware reflects a wider shift in interiors towards personal, expressive and story-led design, where colour, texture and nostalgia play a central role.
Whether you’re searching for tablescaping inspiration, statement table linen, or simply ways to make your home feel more joyful, Olivia’s pieces offer a timeless way to bring personality into everyday living. We’re proud to showcase designers like Olivia who blend craftsmanship, creativity and emotion in everything they create.
Explore the collection and discover how a single piece can transform the feeling of a room, a table, or a moment shared.
FAQ's
Who is Olivia Sewell?
Olivia Sewell is a British artist and designer known for playful artwork, prints, homeware and illustrated table linen.
Where can I buy Olivia Sewell tablecloths in the UK?
You can shop Olivia Sewell tablecloths at Mash + Mint, including illustrated linen designs for birthdays, Sunday lunches, Christmas tables and everyday dining.
What are Olivia Sewell tablecloths made from?
Olivia Sewell’s table linen is made from 100% European linen.
How do you style an Olivia Sewell tablecloth?
Pair an illustrated linen tablecloth with simple cutlery, colourful glassware, relaxed napkins, candles and serving pieces for an easy, expressive table.
