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Where we share makers stories and the things we have learnt on this adventure.
Maker Stories
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WoodenGold
Edition Five Feature Words by: Stephen Cichocki Location: Cardiff, Wales, UK Photo Credit: ©Stephen Cichocki @wooden.gold I’m Stephen, and I started and now run a jewellery company called WoodenGold, along with my wife, Lisa. We live and work in Cardiff, Wales, UK, which is a great city. Being
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Jen Violette
Edition Five Feature Words by: Jen Violette Location: Wilmington, Vermont, USA Photo Credit: ©John Polak Photo, ©Jen Violette, ©Jen Masotti My name is Jen Violette and I’m a full-time glass sculptor/mixed media artist living in rural Wilmington, Vermont, USA. Having begun working with hot glass at Alfred University
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Veskor Cassiopeia
Edition Five Feature Words by: Manuel Silbereisen Location: Augsburg, Germany Photo Credit: (Image 1 , 2 & 5) ©Helena Gladen (@helenagladen) / (Image 3 & 4) ©Manuel Silbereisen @veskor_cassiopeia Geometry fascinates me. Through lino printing, I have found a way to combine my interest in art, my talent for precision and
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Fox and Monkey
Edition Five Feature Words by: Sam and Katie Location: Bedfordshire, UK Photo Credit: ©Darina Stoda @darinastoda (profile image) & ©Lucy Cooper (product images) @mykindlifestyle What is it that you do and how do you do it? Katie: We create beautiful, handcrafted furniture and homewares that are made slowly and sustainably
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The Kindred Workshop
Mutsa a UK based Zimbabwe born ceramic artists story is one of finding fulfilment in what you do. From mugs to earrings Mutsa crafts her work with beautiful authenticity.
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METALWORK
Robert Siemsen
Robert is an extremely talented metal worker and coach builder with a wealth of experience. I (Jack) actually followed Robert for some time pre We Are Makers, So as you can imagine being able to feature his story in our fifth edition was an honour.
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Guest Articles
Nicks Boots
A note from Kate and Jack: We’d like to thank our friend Trent Peterson for introducing us to the owners of Nicks Boots. Not only do Nicks produce the most beautiful handmade leather boots, they’re also doing good: creating employment and keeping skills alive by bringing people in
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Wazakura Japan
Wazakura Japan, a women-led business based in Fukuoka, Kyushu, curates and delivers traditional Japanese bonsai, ikebana, and gardening tools worldwide, supporting local artisans and preserving cultural heritage.
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Zoë Wilson Carving
Zoë Wilson, a stone carver based in Hampshire, UK, embraces the tradition of manual craftsmanship, drawing inspiration from geometric patterns and the tactile nature of Welsh slate.
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Dejan-Art Sculptor
Edition 6 Feature Words by: Dejan Zdravkovic Location: Kušiljevo, Serbia Photo Credit : ©Dejan and Andelka Zdravkovic @dejan.art.sculptor I was born in November 1987, in a small town in Serbia. I graduated from the Agricultural High School and enrolled in the Faculty of Agriculture. I was never interested in
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Canned Pineapple Co.
Buddy and Shelby of Canned Pineapple co are two artists and focusing on hand painted signage. And boy oh boy do they do it well! Kate and I actually came across some of their work in Nashville in 2023 and it is as good in person as it looks here.
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Studio Ibbini
Our only maker from the UAE so far Julias work is mesmerising. The intricate details reminiscent of ancient sculptures are created by harnessing technology at its peak.
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Hooligan Georgia
Not only is Tim an incredible maker. He and his wife Tracy are key instrumentalists in our US podcast trip of 2023. Tim generously made us a pen that we felt it fitting to collect in person. Tim and Tracy ( a fabulous emerging potter ) then offered their home as our base camp for the first week.
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Equilibrium Cycle Works
Vladimir Balahovsky, a solo bicycle frame builder based in Tokyo, Japan, found his passion in steel frames during his time in London. His brand, Equilibrium Cycle Works, reflects a commitment to balance and joy. Vladimir's journey into frame building was nurtured by mentor Mr. Ohtaki.
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Lichen Goods
Charlotte and Pepe, a British–Spanish couple, abandoned fast fashion, embracing sustainable practices at Lichen Goods. Handmade garments, natural fibers, plant-dyed finishes, and a commitment to environmentalism define their vision.
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T. A. G. Smith
Self-taught artist Tom Smith, makes wall-hanging wooden sculptures of birds and feathers using the ancient intarsia technique. Witness the fusion of natural beauty and craftsmanship.
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OUR_worldofwood
Embark on the woodworking journey of Alistair McNab in the New Forest, UK. Discover how repurposed materials and sustainable practices shape the unique furniture, toys, and decor at OUR_worldofwood.
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Josh Gluckstein
Explore the world of wildlife art with Josh Gluckstein, a London-based artist creating life-size animal sculptures from recycled cardboard. Discover his passion for sustainability, travel, and animal conservation.
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RAAQUU
RAAQUU ceramics with Adil Ghani, founder of RAAQUU in Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia. Discover the magic, unpredictability, and global impact of his unique ceramic creations.
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P A Lutherie
Paris Andrew, a self-employed luthier in Florence, Italy. Explore the art of crafting bowed string and baroque instruments, restoration challenges, and international exhibits.
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Settlement Post & Beam
Discover the art of timber framing with Kayle Sickler, co-founder of Settlement Post & Beam in Sylvania, Pennsylvania. Learn about bespoke designs, sustainability, and the creative journey in this insightful interview.
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KANPAI London
KANPAI, the UK’s pioneer sake brewery by Lucy and Tom Wilson, fuses British creativity with Japanese tradition in Peckham, London. Their handcrafted sake, from experimental limited editions to core blends, invites communal enjoyment at Europe's first sake taproom.
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Greasy Luck Forge
Thomas Boucher, a part-time blacksmith in New Hampshire, USA, delves into the fascinating world of traditional locksmithing, crafting handmade locks, keys, and tools. Drawing inspiration from family roots and guided by a passion for utility and complexity.
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Hooked by a Fin
Rebecca Finbow, the creative force behind Hooked by a Fin in Suffolk, UK. Overcoming personal challenges, she finds solace and purpose in crafting original designs, specializing in whimsical animal-inspired bonnets that spread joy and spark imaginations.
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Delbasid Timbers
Dale Cordwell, a woodturner from Townsville, Queensland, draws inspiration from a family legacy in woodcraft. Using salvaged urban timber and burls, he creates timeless designs, embracing the story within each piece.
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Dan Hero
Dan Riggott, a whittler on the Gower Peninsula, Wales, crafts whimsical characters from wood with just a pocketknife. His unique approach, influenced by contemporary cartoon illustration, has gained popularity, turning a passion into a successful venture.
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Hannah Nunn
Explore the vibrant journey of artist Hannah Gunn, from art college to crafting mesmerizing lamps and expanding into surface patterns, wallpapers, and more.
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Cloudfields
Mary Serditova Vande Kerckhove, a textile printmaker in Bruges, Belgium, shares her journey as an introverted artist and founder of Cloudfields. Using block and lino printing she transforms natural inspirations into handmade textile items, reflecting her passion for naive and primitive art.
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Mila’s Apothecary
Mila Wood, founder of Mila’s Apothecary in London, cultivates a herbal wellness brand crafting sustainable, plant-based skincare, herbal teas, and elixirs. Rooted in folk herbalism and science, her products offer a moment of calm and self-care.
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Banton Frameworks
Jamie Bartlett and Lucy Ross, based in Kilsyth, UK, craft bespoke spectacles and sunglasses, blending traditional craftsmanship with limited-edition creativity, offering a personal touch to eyewear that mass-produced frames lack.
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Marcela Luna
Visual artist Nekane Jiménez Fernández, based in Villabuena del Puente, Spain, breathes life into waste paper through Marcela Luna, creating unique art and functional pieces with sustainable, natural pigments.
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Candy Coated Accessories
Fiona Ross, a skilled machine knitter and designer based in Fraserburgh, UK, creates luxurious collections of lambswool accessories and home décor, featuring geometric patterns and vibrant colors.
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Holly Robins Bespoke
Meet Holly Robins, a Savile Row-trained craftsperson running a bespoke tailoring studio in Dalston, East London. With over 15 years of experience, she has tailored for iconic figures like Mick Jagger and worked on film productions like James Bond's Skyfall.
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Jordan Sprigg Sculptures
Jordan Sprigg, a recycled metal sculptor in Western Australia, transforms old tools into majestic animal sculptures, blending artistry with farm-found history.
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Rekha Maker
Rekha Barry, founder of Rekha Maker, merges architecture and playfulness in Glasgow, crafting Jesmonite objects with a whimsical nod to brutalism.
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CUS
Barcelona-based garment-makers, Adriana Zalacain and Sabrina Kohan redefine sustainability with radical transparency. Crafting timeless essentials and made-to-order pieces, their central workspace becomes a hub for beauty, genuine connection, and emotional sustainability in the heart of Barcelona.
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Alasdair Thomson
Alasdair Thomson, an Edinburgh-based artist crafting masterpieces in marble. With 15 years of expertise, Alasdair's representational work combines technical skill and a profound love for the material. Discover how he brings contemporary subjects to life while preserving the ancient beauty of marble.
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Nigel Tyas Ironwork
Nigel Tyas Ironwork, a blacksmith workshop in rural Yorkshire, UK, dedicated to preserving traditional ironworking skills. For two decades, their skilled team has crafted exquisite chandeliers, lights, curtain poles, and fire irons, blending ancient techniques with modern technology.
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Blackdown Shepherd Huts
Delve into the world of Will Vickery, the craftsman behind Blackdown Shepherd Huts in Ilminster, UK. Crafting bespoke shepherd huts for modern living, Blackdown's handcrafted designs, born from a passion for quality, have evolved into versatile spaces for glamping, home offices, and beyond.
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Astrid Wilk
Step into the enchanting world of Astrid Wilk, a freelance artist based in Dortmund, Germany. Specializing in polymer clay, Astrid crafts intricate miniatures of tropical houseplants and accessories, exploring illusions, and blurring the lines between reality and miniature.
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crackpacs
Discover crackpacs, where Sheffield-based founder Matt Crack transforms repurposed materials, especially retro canvas tents, into vibrant bags and backpacks. Embrace sustainable, adventure-ready designs with a unique narrative.
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nojin
Explore Ngoc-Hien Nguyen's nojin, a gender-fluid fashion brand in Nuremberg, Germany, blending Vietnamese heritage with mindful consumption. Discover distinctive, versatile designs made for lasting impressions.
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Ferro Forma
Discover the artistry of Alison Jackson and Dan Lorrimer at Ferro Forma in Braidwood, Australia. This metalsmithing duo combines traditional silversmithing and contemporary sculpture, crafting timeless pieces in brass and stainless steel.
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Analó
Mariló Míguez Ricón's journey, who, driven by a health revelation, shifted from a stable career in London to craft washable paper handbags in the serene landscapes of San Sebastián, Spain.
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Esvee Atelier
Esvee Atelier, based in Hyderabad, India, epitomizes Indian contemporary design. Led by Srikanth Varma and Keerthi Datla, they craft bespoke furniture, fusing sustainability and safety with architectural finesse.
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Billy Tannery
Jack Millington, founder of Billy Tannery, a unique leather company breaking traditional molds. Born from a mission to repurpose discarded goatskins, This led to establishing the UK's first tannery in over 50 years.
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everymeadow
everymeadow, a Brooklyn-based design studio, founded by Grace and Nolan Hatfield, blends visual storytelling with handcrafted Italian leather bags. Dive into their creative journey, emphasizing beauty, craftsmanship, and the art of homemaking reflected in each unique product.
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Mud Ireland Pottery
Josh Lyness, a potter from Lurgan, Northern Ireland, and his venture, Mud Ireland Pottery. In this feature, delve into Josh's journey from animation to ceramics, his passion for crafting unique pots, and the crucial role played by his wife, Holly, in the business's growth.
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Dygo Studio
Meet Živilė Fornari, a Lithuanian artist based in Copenhagen. Her journey from fine art to combating plastic waste led her to craft Dygo, a brand specializing in sustainable, plant-based soaps. Živilė's creations, inspired by landscapes worldwide, embody minimalism and ethical self-care.
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SPIN360°
Craig Palmer, a skilled metal spinner and creative metalworker from Portsmouth, UK. With 23 years of expertise, Craig's passion for metal spinning led him to establish SPIN360°. Starting as a side project in his garage, SPIN360° has now evolved into Craig's full-time gig.
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Lucia de Marco Illustration
The artistic journey of Lucia de Marco, a 28-year-old freelance illustrator based in Milan. Born in the picturesque landscapes of Puglia, Italy, Lucia infuses warmth and serenity into her art, creating inviting spaces through watercolors and a passion for the simple joys of life.
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Ash & Plumb
Discover the artistic journey of Ash & Plumb, a Sussex-based woodworking studio founded by partners Barnaby Ash and Dru Plumb. Through woodturning, they shape sustainable, sculptural forms, blending creativity with natural materials.
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Romero Furniture
Jesús Rodríguez Romero, an industrial designer turned furniture maker in Mérida, Venezuela, shares his transformative journey, from childhood wood projects to establishing Romero Furniture, crafting high-quality, bespoke pieces with exotic hardwoods.
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The Marchmont Workshop
Marchmont Workshop, the first UK facility for traditional rush-seated chairs in 54 years, led by Sam Cooper and Richard Platt, blends heritage and innovation in the Scottish Borders.
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Kashmir Loom
Step into the rich legacy of Kashmir Loom, co-founded by Jenny Housego and Asaf Ali in Srinagar, India. Uncover their dedication to preserving Kashmir's textile heritage, blending tradition with modern artistry.
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Stick Ceramics
Embark on the artistic journey of Richard Mutimer, a potter crafting functional homewares in the vibrant landscape of London. Discover the fusion of music and clay, creating uniquely inspired ceramic pieces.
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Charlien Lagrou Jewellery
Charlien Lagrou breathes life into recycled silver and gold, forging unique jewelry with a touch of nature's nostalgia. Discover her passion, commitment to sustainability, and the timeless allure of handcrafted pieces that resonate with stories untold.
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Lazykate Textiles
Cathy, Jessamy, and Sofia in Liverpool weave tales of spinning, dyeing, and building the Lazykate Textiles School.
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Tove by design
Read Tove Ohlander's journey from glassblower to sustainable clothing pioneer in Vermont, USA. Her brand, Tove by design, blends fashion and practicality, championing ethical, slow fashion.
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Robertson Designs
Delve into the world of Casey Robertson, an illustrator and graphic designer based in Mebane, North Carolina. Explore his artistic journey, drawing inspiration from vintage aesthetics, and witness the intersection of nostalgia and creativity in his unique designs.
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The Crayon Bug
Journey into the vibrant world of Rebs Hope, an artisan crayon maker from Pembrokeshire, Wales. Learn about her artistic evolution, the inception of Crayon Bug, and her plans for a sustainable studio.
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Fish Fabrications
Explore the world of metalwork craftsmanship with Sam Fish, a seasoned artisan from Norfolk, UK, who blends problem-solving creativity with a diverse range of projects, from large artworks to bespoke handles.
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WOODWORK
Indego Africa
Discover Indego Africa's impactful journey, empowering over 1,200 artisan and refugee women in Rwanda and Ghana, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design for a global audience.
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Nemo Leather Goods
Nemo Leather Goods in Strasbourg, France. Marina Gevorgian crafts minimalist, handcrafted leather goods inspired by history and sustainability.
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COMUNITYmade
Sean and Shannon Scott, founders of a Los Angeles-based footwear brand have a mission to inspire community participation. Discover their unique approach to local manufacturing, social impact, and innovative giving.
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Vuorensaku Guitars
Journey into the artistry of Saku Vuori, the master luthier behind Vuorensaku Guitars in Jyväskylä, Finland, crafting bespoke instruments blending classic styles and modern innovation.
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Little Black Lines
Step into the vibrant world of Hannah Parfitt, a UK-based illustrator and interior designer whose drawings capture the essence of places, experiences, and dreams.
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Made Wherever I Am
Jess Steinfelds, a coast-loving Australian in Northern California, crafts vibrant textiles inspired by Australia's colors, merging knitting and weaving.
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DAISYV Jewellery
Daisy Vickers, wilderness-inspired metalsmith, shares her passion for sustainable jewelry crafting in South West England, using recycled sterling silver.
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Wilding Ceramics
Calgary brand manager Leah Schwartz transforms into a potter, finding inspiration in Alberta's nature as she transforms her dining room into a haven of vibrant underglazes and luxurious clay.
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Tobias Heldqvist
Tobias Heldqvist, a blacksmith and knife maker in Sösdala, Sweden. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of his forge, built in the late 19th century, as he continues the tradition of craftsmanship. Tobias's passion is for creating custom-made cutlery.
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Porter + Trundle
The vibrant world of Porter + Trundle, a South London-based artistic duo. Sarah Emily Porter and James Trundle craft playful, sculptural works, seamlessly blending color, form, and craftsmanship in a dynamic dialogue with buyers.
