About Spark and Label
The book that started it all
The book that started it all
The book that started it all
I still remember the moment clearly. I was wandering through the Malvern Flea Market, not looking for anything in particular, when I spotted it—an old, worn book tucked between dusty postcards and rusted tins. Inside? Page after page of vintage matchbox labels from around the world. Tigers, trains, typography—tiny pieces of history, each
I still remember the moment clearly. I was wandering through the Malvern Flea Market, not looking for anything in particular, when I spotted it—an old, worn book tucked between dusty postcards and rusted tins. Inside? Page after page of vintage matchbox labels from around the world. Tigers, trains, typography—tiny pieces of history, each one telling its own story.
Something clicked. That little book lit a spark in me (pun fully intended) and I’ve been collecting ever since. What started as a lucky find turned into a full-blown passion—a deep appreciation for design, storytelling, and the artistry hidden in the smallest of things. That day at Malvern changed everything.
Keeping the history alive
The book that started it all
The book that started it all
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As I began building my collection, I realised I wasn’t just gathering labels—I was preserving forgotten moments in time. Each matchbox label is a glimpse into another era: the craftsmanship, the culture, even the advertising styles of the day. Sharing them isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about honouring the everyday art that once lit ho
.
As I began building my collection, I realised I wasn’t just gathering labels—I was preserving forgotten moments in time. Each matchbox label is a glimpse into another era: the craftsmanship, the culture, even the advertising styles of the day. Sharing them isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about honouring the everyday art that once lit homes, factories, and lives across the globe.
Now, through Spark & Label, I’m keeping that history alive. These labels aren’t just ephemera—they’re time capsules. By collecting, sharing, and celebrating them, I hope to preserve their magic for new eyes and future hands. Every label tells a story—and I’m here to help them speak again
My collection
The book that started it all
My collection
My collection has now grown far beyond that first book. I collect labels from all over the world—Swedish safety matches, Soviet-era prints, Japanese art labels, British brands, and everything in between. But it's the thrill of the hunt I love most—digging through boxes at flea markets, car boot sales, antique shops, and dusty corners of
My collection has now grown far beyond that first book. I collect labels from all over the world—Swedish safety matches, Soviet-era prints, Japanese art labels, British brands, and everything in between. But it's the thrill of the hunt I love most—digging through boxes at flea markets, car boot sales, antique shops, and dusty corners of forgotten stalls. What started as a curiosity has become a full-blown obsession (and yes, it’s slowly taking over my house). This passion has led me to become the Publicity Officer for the British Matchbox Label and Bookmatch Society, where I now help shine a light on this incredible art form and connect with collectors who share the same fire
A little hello
Hello and welcome
Hi, I’m Kate – therapist by day, phillumenist by heart! (That’s a fancy word for someone who collects matchboxes, matchbooks, and their gorgeous little labels – trust me, it’s a real thing… and yes, I’m obsessed.)
When I’m not working with children in my therapy practice, you’ll find me rummaging through antique shops, flea markets, and car boot sales with wild joy – usually covered in dust and grinning like I’ve struck gold. My all-time favourite treasure-hunting ground? The Malvern Flea Market, once a month like clockwork. There's something magical about finding these tiny, time-traveling works of art tucked away in forgotten corners.
My passion? All things phillumeny – collecting, curating, and celebrating matchbox labels from around the world. From bold tigers and vintage trains to elegant typography and retro advertising, each label tells a story, and I can’t get enough of them. Whether it’s a lucky find in Tokyo or a last-minute bid on eBay, the thrill never gets old.
I’m a creative soul with a flair for the OTT and fabulous, and this site is my playground – a place to share my collections, show off the oddball beauties I discover, and connect with fellow lovers of vintage design and tiny treasures.
Oh! And I’m also proud to be the Publicity Officer for the British Matchbox Label and Bookmatch Society, where I get to spread the word (and the wonder) of this brilliant little world I’ve fallen into.
So come on in – strike a spark, explore the labels, and let’s keep this history burning bright. ✨