Shopfront: There are few interior accessories that are absolutely failsafe, but anything designed by textile designer Helen James may be as close as it gets. Everyone to whom we have shown her goods for the home immediately likes them. It's that kind of stuff.

Napkin and placemat sets hand-printed with red flowers and crossing circles in dark cottons or natural linens or cushions with wide-pleated pink silk panels on navy fabric are sophisticated and clever, with a modern sensibility - but they work equally well in a traditional interior. Japanese design seems to be one of her biggest inspirations. James hand-prints everything with a light touch. She produces in small quantities, sometimes to commission.

You can contact James, who recently moved to Co Meath with her family, at hjtextiles@hotmail.com and make an appointment to visit her studio and see the full range.

James also sells hand-printed silk obi belts and other accessories at Costume, Castle Market, Dublin 2 and Elaine Curtis, Tullow Street, Carlow.