The Tiler’s Daughter
At our markets, we are lucky to be surrounded by talented makers with incredible stories behind their businesses, and Frances from The Tiler’s Daughter is one of them.
Frances creates beautiful hand-painted ceramic and glass artwork inspired by the seaside, local landmarks and treasured memories. Her tiles, trinket dishes and placemats are filled with colourful beach huts, boats, surfboards, robins and coastal scenes that instantly bring a smile.
But behind the artwork is a story of resilience, creativity and community.
After more than 35 years working as a registered nurse, eventually becoming a senior staff nurse, Frances was medically retired after developing rheumatoid arthritis. Suddenly unable to continue the career she loved, she found herself feeling lost.
Everything changed when her family bought her a glass painting set.
What began as a simple hobby soon uncovered a hidden artistic talent. Encouraged by her late husband and supported through local Women’s Institute competitions, Frances slowly built the creative business she has now been running for over 20 years.
Her husband was her biggest supporter, accompanying her to craft fairs and helping with the heavier displays. Even after his passing, Frances continued creating, although she admits attending those first markets without him was incredibly difficult.
She credits our Emsworth market community with helping her rediscover purpose and confidence again.
“Emsworth has given me a reason to get up and paint. Our group is like a family now — we look after each other and support one another.”
Frances often spends her days exploring local coastal areas, taking photographs of scenes that later become paintings on ceramic tiles. The Millpond, harbour views and surrounding seaside landscapes are constant sources of inspiration.
One of the things customers love most about Frances’ work is its personal touch. Alongside her popular seaside collections, she also paints custom pieces from customer photographs and creates personalised house signs designed to withstand all weather conditions without fading.
Her Spitfire and Selsey Lifeboat designs are especially close to her heart and often spark wonderful conversations at markets, with visitors sharing memories and personal stories inspired by the artwork.
Despite ongoing health challenges, including severe arthritis and long-term effects from Covid, Frances continues adapting her business and finding new creative ideas. She is currently working on collections featuring VW campers, caravans, birds and flowers.
When she isn’t painting, Frances enjoys diamond art, mahjong, Scrabble, attending church and helping with Sunday school. She also describes herself as proudly “tea always” and definitely a “night owl”!
Frances is passionate about supporting independent businesses and believes small businesses are the heart of local communities.
“When we support local, we support a whole community.”
You can find Frances and The Tiler’s Daughter regularly at our Emsworth Loves Local markets, where her warm personality and beautiful handmade artwork have earned her many loyal returning customers over the years.
Find out more about Frances on Facebook & Instagram and on her trader’s profile.