Did you know that Colourmount begins life as three different elements that
are then laminated together? These raw materials are bought in the UK where possible, and Europe where necessary. Up to 600 tonnes, or almost £1m worth, are stored at any one time ready to be made into Colourmount for the framing market.

On March 4th, I was in one of three groups of framers discovering these facts and many more about the art of paper converting, including the manufacture of Colourmount. We saw the metallic copper being coated - the paper is actually double coated to give the luxuriant colour you need - on one of two amazing, 70 year old festoon machines. These are the only working models left in the IJK and are a sight to behold.
Many other paper products are manufactured in the Mill, a Grade II listed, nineteenth century cotton mill, with many original features including a beautiful stone spiral staircase.
The laminating machine on which Colourmount is made had to be specially built to take into account the very low ceilings but, far from worrying about the inconvenience, Managing Director Mike Braddock is proud of the old building. We could see why. A great deal of effort has obviously been put into planning the development of the Mill for efficient manufacturing without ruining this wonderful old building.
We learnt a great deal about paper converting during this fascinating tour, and would like to thank our guides, Mike Braddock, James Braddock and Andrew Branton, who answered all our questions honestly and clearly, and made sure that everybody enjoyed their day.
The next Mill Tour is on July 8th, and I can highly recommend it as a day out. Make sure you book early, as demand is high. Ring Andrew Branton on 01625 573155 to reserve your place.

Andrew Branton Comments

Thank you to everybody who visited our stand at the Spring Fair and helped to make it our most successful and most enjoyable show to date.
Our new woodgrain hoards generated a huge amount of interest, from framers and stockists alike. We are delighted to say that all four boards are in full production and are selling as quickly as we can make them. They can be purchased from any of our stockists, hut if you need help locating your nearest distrihutor, ring me and I will give you a list of local outlets.
You will he pleased to know that all the samples requested at the show have heen sent out, with the exception of some of the chevron sets. Demand was so high that we ran out, so if you haven't received yours yet, please he patient - it won't be much longer! All the stockists' reps have heen given new sample order pads, so take advantage of this. If there is any material which you feel would help your business, just ask them to order it for you.
If you have any comments on Colourmount products or services, please write to us. We would love to get a letters page going in this newsletter. Every letter published in our next issue will receive a Colourmount bag, so get the creative juices flowing now! I'm looking forward to hearing from you.