The Shopkeeper's Journal

A Love Blanket for Valentine's Day

2012-01-25T10:25:00.003Z

It's that time of year again when shops fill their windows with red heart stickers, giant cards with two teddy bears cuddling and balloons seem to be everywhere. It may sound a bit miserable but I don't buy gifts for Valentine's Day, I seem to always forget and then it passes and the moments gone.

But there is one item that we sell which makes me think 'oh, maybe this year I should treat someone special'...

So a question, what would be the perfect object for:

1. a Valentine's Day present (that you can take as much, if not more, joy in)

2. to brighten a cold, grey February day

3. something to cherish for years

4. and support the British craft industry in the process

And the beautiful object is.....

The cashmere Love Blanket by Holly Berry

Hidden in the weave and pattern of each Holly Berry blanket is a message of love and comfort created using a Morse code pattern which is woven into the cloth’s double layered structure.

Holly’s uplifting colour pallet is inspired by vintage textiles and her own drawings and photography. She carefully sources natural yarns such as cashmere, lambs wool and merino from UK suppliers to create a striking colour pallet and support UK makers.

Holly works very closely with an established mill in Scotland to manufacture her blankets, offering her an opportunity to celebrate and promote traditional UK manufacturing, something that is very close to Holly and The Shop Floor Project’s heart.

Holly describes what she loves about the ancient art of weaving

“Weaving and all of its processes speak strongly to my ideals of time, storytelling and sustainable practice, taking the time, effort and skill to produce special work with a unique sense of value. Each piece that I make is a colourful and contemporary interpretation of a craft which used to be a common industry in many towns throughout the UK. I celebrate the traditions of this craft and community as well as honoring my long standing belief in slow textiles, responsibility and emotionally durable design.

I am currently undertaking a residency in the North of the Shetland Islands to further enhance my practice, absorbing the traditions of the local crafts and celebrating this unique place full of history and skill. I am inspired by the local materials and subtle colours of the islands and will be producing work directly influenced by Shetland.

My luxury woven cloths and wearable blankets are to be used continuously. I am proud to create pieces that will remain with a generation or family for a lifetime. They provide the warmth of wrapping yourself up in a protective layer, preparing you for the world and enriching your experience with colour, warmth and love.”

Click here to view/buy the blanket

Still plenty of time to shop for inspiring gifts + Free P+P

2011-12-10T10:04:00.003Z

FREE DELIVERY

until midnight

Monday 12th December

Free first class recorded delivery just type SNOW into the discount box at the checkout (for UK customers only).

CHECK OUT THE GIFT GUIDE FOR IDEAS...

CHRISTMAS DELIVERY DATES

UK: 22nd December

Europe: 12th December

A Christmas Secret!

2011-12-05T17:47:00.015Z

Apart from our Shop Floor Project site we have a sister site, The Secret Arcade which is full of fantastic artisan shops. The site design is based on a 19th century shopping arcade where you can wander through the passageways full of shop windows displaying amazing objects from original art and contemporary craft to amazing jewellery, fashion, home interiors and exquisite childrenswear.

The home interiors passage at The Secret Arcade offers quirky and unique interior products from bespoke wallpapers, fabrics and tablewares all direct from the designers own studios.

The Fashion and Accessories passage offers the chance to have the ultimate designer look with amazing shoes from a Cordwainer trained designer, a classic luxury vintage fashion brand and beautifully made leather accessories boutique.

The Childrenswear passage begins with a glorious shop that has the most beautiful children's blankets woven in Scotland followed by two fabulously unique childrenswear shops that offer UK designed and made clothing from the finest natural fabrics.

The Jewellery passage is a must visit for anyone looking for a WOW factor statement piece - scroll along to see the work of four leading UK contemporary jewellery designers.

Or if you would like to own a piece of contemporary art we have three prolific artists showing in the Secret Arcade Art passage - each with a growing following both in the UK and abroad. Alternatively if you are into making work yourself a visit to the Contemporary Craft passage will give you lots of inspiration!

Visit the Secret Arcade here

The 2011 Christmas Gift Guide for Him & Her

2011-11-17T10:13:00.003Z

It's that time of year when we all need to find that perfect gift, either for other people or just to give ourselves a well deserved treat!

Our 2011 Gift Guide has come just at the right time, when we have launched lots of new collections from prints to jewellery to bags and scarves - all hand made in the UK.

Visit here...

Woven Scarves by Sarah Tyssen

2011-11-17T10:08:00.003Z

This collection of beautiful scarves, woven in the subtle shades of autumn and winter, are designed by award -winning textile designer Sarah Tyssen and woven in a traditional mill in Suffolk and perfect for both men and women.

The scarves are available in three designs; Scales, Check and Stripe. Each one has a slightly different look on the reverse which looks great when wrapped around. All the wool and dyes are sourced from the UK.

View the full collection here

New Work by Alice Pattullo

2011-11-17T10:01:00.003Z

We've just launched a new collection of Alice Pattullo's limited edition prints. Her signature style is in abundance in these ten new works but she is tackling new subjects from museum collections, pearly kings and queens, good luck charms to old favourites re-printed such as The Seagull and Sailor Book.

Also don't miss Alice's brand new limited edition Book - Climb to the Crown...

The Cabinet of Extraordinary Objects

2011-11-17T09:57:00.002Z

A new addition to the online shop is The Cabinet of Extraordinary Objects. We'll be constantly changing what's in the cabinet (in January we will be showing an exciting collection by an 'amateur anthropologist').

It's the perfect space for showing two new collections; a collection of jewellery by award-winning Irish jeweller Eily O'Connell and the magnificent Miniature Victorian Hothouse Kits.

Eily O'Connell casts organic material such as claws, crab shells and twigs in solid recycled silver to form sculptural necklaces, bracelets and earrings.

The palm-sized Miniature Victorian Hothouse kits are designed by a firm of architectural model makers in Glasgow.

The kit comes with everything you need to have your own botanical garden including a seeds and a tiny little disc of growing material - just sprinkle with water and keep in the light.

Both collections can be found in The Cabinet of Extraordinary Objects

Autumn Textiles - Emily Mackey Rare Breed Collection

2011-10-19T16:26:00.003+01:00

Emily Mackey is a textile designer, illustrator and weaver who specialises in using native breed English wools and traditional embroidery techniques.

She also works with some of the few remaining mills in the UK to produce her larger Herdwick blankets.

There is something intangibly romantic about Emily’s work. Her use of ancient materials, traditional crafts and imagery of bare trees seem to evoke a sense of place and heritage that speaks to our rural ancestry.

Autumn Pattern - Ellie Curtis Anthropomorphic Textiles

2011-10-19T16:15:00.005+01:00

A graduate of the prestigious Camberwell College of Art and Design, Ellie Curtis’ first textile collection has been inspired by a recent residency in Southern Spain and time spent at the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford.

Her work explores an interest in anthropomorphic creatures which blur the distinction between human, animal and plant; tree-men, jiving birds, and women with roots for hands are some of the characters you can expect to meet. Ellie’s work has been featured widely from the ICA to the V&A Museum of Childhood and World of Interiors magazine.

Her fabrics are equally stunning as a cushion or upholstered on a large sofa

Visit the full collection here

The new shop is open...

2011-10-07T12:24:00.004+01:00

No.60 Market Street is Open

Our first bricks and mortar shop has just opened it's doors within the conservation area of Ulverston, a pretty market town in Cumbria.

The front of the shop is our showroom, whilst in the back is our warren of studios and offices for the online shop. We are so excited by the space and we think it does justice to all the wonderful collections on display.

If you are up this way, please pop in and say hello. We are open seven days a week 9.30am - 5.30pm (11am - 3pm Sunday). Next door is a fabulous organic coffee house and deli, their Mushrooms on Toast is legendary!

The Shop Floor Project in Vogue with Roar Power!

2011-09-08T11:11:00.009+01:00

A roar of excitement echoed around the Shop Floor office this week on opening this month's issue of Vogue magazine when we saw they have featured a new piece of jewellery by design house, Bonbi Forest, one of the most popular designers at The Shop Floor Project. Featuring the locket on the magazine's ' In Vogue' page which this month is reflecting on the Autumn / Winter catwalk trend for all things fauna!

There are two versions of the locket available which can be purchased in the Jewellery Room at The Shop Floor Project.

Our new shop is almost open - sneaky peek...

2011-07-19T17:31:00.003+01:00

It's only two weeks now until the opening of our very first bricks and mortar shop in the ancient market town of Ulverston at the foot of the Lake District. We thought you'd like to see the splendid craftsmanship of Ian Whiteoak as he puts the finishing touches to our hand painted shop sign.

Ian has now painted all of the shops signs in the conservation area of Ulverston, which could easily be mistaken for a pre-war shopping street. Our neighbours include a rather wonderful tea garden and coffee house, herbalists, book shop, stylish clothes boutiques, antiques shops and the irresistible Russian chocolate shop selling the best sour cherry nougat we've ever tasted.

Because we got so excited by his skills, coupled with our love of traditional crafts, we have commissioned Ian to created signage within the shop too. I hope we don't get carried away!

Ian is one of numerous craft workers which still thrive in the town, from cobblers working in what can only be described as a workshop straight out of Dickens, to upholsterers in Buxton Mews, seamstresses and haberdashers in Union Alley and a grandfather clock repairer and retailer in Upper Brook Street. All of these shops, and many more, proudly display a sign which Ian has lovingly painted.

More news of the shop to follow, but we can say we are incredibly excited by the interior already...

Northwest Passage featured on our favourite blog!

2011-07-19T17:30:00.003+01:00

Leonard McDermid's latest work, Northwest Passage has been featured in our favourite blog, Spitalfield's Life. Click here to read the article. We don't usually like to say things like this, but as not to disappoint, they are going fast so make sure you order one if you love it as much as we do!

Available from the Books, Print and Art Departmen t

Designer of the Month - Abigail Brown

2011-06-30T15:32:00.004+01:00

(Curlew)

This month we interview the lovely Abigail Brown and ask her how on earth she makes her textile birds, what her studio is like and what gets her inspiration flowing. Click here to read the interview.

We've also added these seven new species to our collection, which are all available online.

Collared Dove

Swan

Wren

Waxwing

Sanderling

Goldfinch

View the collection here...

Extraordinary Gifts for Father's Day + Free Card

2011-06-06T15:42:00.007+01:00

Do you struggle to know what to give your father or father-in-law in June of each year? Even for people who like shopping for gifts it can cause a bit of a headache.

The high street is awash with novelty socks, golf ball paper weights, dvd box sets but if you are looking for something a little less mass-produced and a little more interesting these objects might be just what your looking for...

Free Father's Day card with each order

Plus with any order you will receive one of these illustrated Father's Day cards to go with your gift. Just write Father's Day in the message box at checkout so we know you'd like one..

Here's the gift guide...

Daniel Heath

hand printed cushions

Abigail Brown

Hoopoe Bird

Abigail Brown

Song Thrush Bird

Alice Pattullo Pipes

limited edition print

Alice Pattullo Cumberland Wrestling

limited edition print

Lee May Foster's

Sea Things T-Shirt

Leonard McDermid's

stunning, letter-pressed

Twelve Sea Pictures book

Alice Pattullo Sailor

limited edition book

Alice Pattullo Pedigree Chums

limited edition booklet

And don't forget with each order you'll receive one of these lovely cards.

New collections just in + a treasured item...

2011-05-20T14:10:00.008+01:00

Pedigree Chums Book

by Alice Pattullo

Since launching Alice's work last winter we have sold out again and again of her limited edition prints and books. There is something about her work that is so of the time, so lust-worthy!

In this new work she steps away from the screen printer and uses a mixture of photo-printing combined with hand painting, ensuring each one is slightly different.

Each page is folded and features a antique dog figurine. You can keep it as a book or unfold and frame the large pages.

These limited edition fold up books are real collectors items and make great gifts.

Ceramics by

Fliff Carr

Fliff Carr creates sculptural ceramics from her studio in North London where she explores both scale and pattern in her work. In this series she has created an elegant small jug with a relatively enormous handle that seems to belie physics but which stands and pours with precision.

This exploration of scale continues with Fliff’s ‘Treasure Bowls’; delicate earthenware dishes which are impossible to resist cupping in he palm of your hand to marvel at. When placed next to the Hoop Jug, the treasure bowls seems to exaggerate even further the handle and proportions of the jug becoming components of a sculpture.

They make beautiful objects for display but equally function well as a cream jug and sugar bowl on the kitchen table. See the collection here...

Don't forget to check out our other ceramic collections in the newly spruced up Ceramic Rooms...

My Treasured Item

Samantha Allan (one half of The Shop Floor Project) explains why, out of all of beautiful objects in the shop, this is her favourite.

"Asking me to pick one item from our collections is very hard. However, the Hummingbird Skull necklace by Erica Weiner is something I have worn every day for two years!

I am currently reading The Hare with Amber Eyes by Edmund de Waal which explores the author's ancestors and their identities via a collection of tiny hand-carved, Japanese Netsuke figures which have been handed down through his family since the mid 19th century.

As I read this book, I am reminded of my Hummingbird Skull necklace. It was not handed down like the Netsuke were to the author, but I have chosen it as the object I carry around with me and wear daily (like the original intention of Netsuke), to play with when I am concentrating, to show people and watch their astonishment at the tiny size of it, and to ponder on the wonder of nature. It is my own heirloom that I would never give away."

Exquisitely cast in sold brass from an original skull, it measures no more than one inch from skull to beak - available from Erica Weiner's cabinet in the Jewellery Room.

Back in stock!

The striking Herd cotton scarf by Lee May Foster is back by popular demand, perfect for summer days!

A few treats for the long weekend

2011-04-21T16:32:00.004+01:00

The mini-heatwave is set to stay for the long weekend and whilst we'll be making the most of the great outdoors, the weekend is also perfect for making a pot of tea and browsing, at your complete leisure, some of our amazing new collections, reading our Designer of the Month feature and perhaps immersing yourself in the spotlit-rooms of The Menagerie exhibition - which closes next month after ten months and has been our most visited exhibition in the history of the shop!

Whatever you're up to we hope you have a great weekend!

Threadbare Birds

For all of you who are currently collecting, or just love Abigail Brown's birds, get ready to be excited! She's added four new species to her stunning Garden Birds collection

The Hoopoe

The hoopoe is an exotic looking bird that is the size of a mistle thrush. It has a pinkish-brown body, striking black and white wings, a long black downcurved bill, and a long pinkish-brown crest which it raises when excited. It does not breed in the UK, but as many as 100 birds can turn up in spring.

The Kingfisher

The Jay

The Bullfinch

View the full collection of birds here

The Golden Egg

It just seemed like a natural progression after the Threadbare Birds to display our Gold lined quails egg necklace. We've been selling this necklace for three years now it's popularity shows no signs of slowing down. We often have to create waiting lists but luckily we have a new batch which has just arrived in time for the Easter weekend!

Designer of the Month

Elinor Voytal

We interview the textile and jewellery designer to see what inspires her to create the most beautiful and tactile of pieces.

Click here to read the article and see the full collection

WALLPAPER

April and May are apparently the months that most people decorate the house. It must be something to do with the change of light that makes us look at our interiors with fresh eyes.

We have a lovely collection of papers and are always happy to discuss requirements with you and provide samples ( you can call the studio anytime on 01229 581159)

Pick of the Week

Our pick of the week is the lovely Pink Star clutch bag by Dolapo James. Made using her beloved collection of African textiles, this large clutch bag looks both retro and modern.

Much more can be seen at

www.theshopfloorproject.com

Country Pursuits by Alice Pattullo

2011-04-07T14:26:00.008+01:00

A set of limited edition prints by Alice Pattullo exclusively commissioned by The Shop Floor Project

Inspired by traditional country fairs, Alice Pattullo has created a set of prints which celebrate the folk traditions found uniquely in different counties of Britain. From swan-upping in Oxfordshire, sword dancing in Northumbria, wrestling in Cumbria to the pipe smoking competition at the Egremont Crab fair. It’s a glorious way to celebrate and document these eccentric traditions that are rooted in myths, folklore and the seasons.

Alice will be launching a new set of prints each season as part of the Country Pursuits collection.

Limited edition of 25 per print, 30 x 42 cm, £45 each.

Swan Upping

Swan Upping is an annual ceremonial and practical activity in Britain in which mute swans on the River Thames are rounded up, caught, marked, and then released. Traditionally, the Monarch of the United Kingdom owns all unmarked mute swans on the River Thames. This dates from the 12th century, during which swans were a common food source for royalty.

Cumberland Wrestling

Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling, also known as Cumbrian Wrestling, is an ancient and well-practised tradition in Cumbria at the agricultural summer fairs. The origin of the this unique style of wrestling is a matter of debate, with some describing it as having evolved from Norse wrestling brought over by Viking invaders.

As The Shop Floor Project is based in Cumbria and the field behind our old studio was used for an annual country fair, we've seen these dramatic, silent matches first hand. The wrestlers wear beautiful hand-embroidered vests, purple velvet pants and white long johns - and take it very seriously indeed!

The Egremont Crab Apple Fair

Pipe Smoking Competition

Every year since 1267 the townsfolk of Egremont hold an annual celebration after harvest time, known as The Crab Fair. The events held are traditional and do not involve the mechanised swings and roundabouts which became part of so many fairs from the late nineteenth century. The modern-day fair is held on the third Saturday in September and is eagerly awaited by the whole community. Events at the fair include the celebrated World Gurning Championship, the pipe smoking games and the singing of traditional hunting songs.

The Sword Dancers of Northumberland

The rapper sword tradition is traditionally performed in the mining villages of the Northumberland and Durham North East England, especially in Tyneside on May Day. The dance is a fairly rapid one, performed at around 100–160 beats per minute, with different team styles using different rates. It should nonetheless be performed in a smooth and graceful manner, with one figure flowing seamlessly into the next. A number of acrobatic figures can be employed, including forward and backward somersaults over swords.

The collection is available here...

Tamasyn Gambell's new collection featured in Elle Decoration this month!

2011-04-04T10:24:00.001+01:00

These stunning notebooks are designed by eco-textile designer Tamasyn Gambell in her signature style which references faded flags and modernist architecture.

Made using blank ‘reject’ sheets from a local printers in Holborn and environmentally friendly inks, these little gems show how beautiful ethical products can be!

£11.50, for a set of three notebooks

15% off your order plus Mother's Day Gift Guide

2011-03-25T15:54:00.004Z

We've put together a gift guide with ideas perfect for Mothering Sunday or simply just to treat yourself!

With 15% off all orders over £50 until midnight on Monday 28th March 2011. Just type in MOTHER2011 into the discount box at the checkout.

GIFT GUIDE

Hand printed cotton scarves

by Bonbi Forest

Artists books by Leonard McDermid

Sea Glass Earrings

Limited edition silk screen printed cards

by Alice Pattullo

Made in England Squat cup

Gold lined Quails Egg Necklace

Silk Devore Scarf

Yellow Abstract Cotton Cushion with fill by Ella Louis Doran

Clutch bag bu Dolapo James

The Spring collection of Dolapo James' Clutch bags have just arrived

2011-03-14T11:24:00.003Z

What better way to add a vivid dose of spring saturation to your existing wardrobe than with the new limited edition range of clutch bags by Dolapo James for The Shop Floor Project.

Created using Dolapo’s treasured African textiles which she directly sources from the makers Gambia, Ghana and Nigeria, each bag is exquisitely made, slightly padded and fully lined for extra luxury.

Wear with a spring dress, add a bit of zest to a work suit or how about brightening up your weekend t-shirt and jeans look...

The amazing new Jewellery Collections have arrived!

2011-03-02T15:58:00.006Z

We are so excited to open the virtual doors to our new jewellery collections. For the past six months we've been working behind the scenes, seeking out beautiful collections from British, American and Italian designers.

You'll find old favourites by Erica Weiner and Stephanie Simek and new favourites from Melanie Tomlinson, Jane Frazer and Elinor Voytal plus much more.

The new cabinets are literally brimming with exquisite items just waiting for a place on your dressing table.

All our jewellery arrives gift wrapped in black presentation boxes free of charge.

Here are some examples to be found inside

All of these beauties can be found in the Jewellery Cabinets here

Thursday's News

2011-02-17T17:15:00.003Z

It's been a busy day here in the studio with lots of new deliveries; from Alice Pattullo's fantastic new print commemorating the Royal Wedding to re-stocks of our most popular items.

We hope you enjoy browsing...

Wills & Kate Are Getting Hitched

This new limited edition print by artist Alice Pattullo commemorates the upcoming Royal Wedding, but in Alice's unique style - note the easy jet plane in the foreground as a nod to the economic climate. Limited edition of only 30 copies - so don't miss out!

Leonard McDermid

The response to Leonard McDermid's artists books after being featured in The Guardian was phenomenal. Many of you will be pleased to know we now have more of these treasure in the Book Department.

Stephanie Simek's Quail Egg Necklace is back!

There is always a waiting list for this item so we've got even more in this time! Click here.

And finally, a date for your diary

The New Jewellery Department Launches

Friday 25th February

The Guardian's Buy of the Day!

2011-02-08T16:36:00.001Z

We are delighted to be featured in the Guardian.co.uk today. Both in Kate Carter's 'Buy of the Day' and also in the Valentine's Gift Guide - how exciting!

The Blue Tit has flown into Vogue this month

2011-02-01T12:06:00.003Z

It's great to see our wonderful collections in Vogue!

To see the full collection click here...

St Valentine's Day Inspiration

2011-02-01T10:40:00.003Z

Think outside the box this Valentine's Day and be inspired to go for unusual gifts that will surprise and delight.

Do you love to share a cup of tea or coffee?

Hand-printed linen

Love Heart Tea towels

Black onyx and gold love heart earrings

A pair of love birds in cages

Earrings

A pair of butterfly catchers out for a sunny afternoon.

Hand-printed cotton Men's T-shirt

Show her how much you love her

with this six heart gold plated necklace

If they are a fashion lover then this is one for them.

A limited edition screen print depicting a scene from a 1930's musical. The text reads:

"The thing that led to love was her polka dotted glove. By and by every guy wore a polka dotted tie"

Made in Stoke-on-Trent

2011-01-26T15:19:00.003Z

When we started The Shop Floor Project five years ago one of our main objectives was to support struggling British manufacturers. Over the years we have found incredibly talented people who, in their small factories,back alley studios and converted garages, produce high quality and desirable objects.

Our growing collection of UK made goods include wallpaper which is printed in one of the last great paper factories in the Midlands, linens printed in Manchester and silk scarves produced in Nottingham.

To celebrate the growing support of items made on these shores we have launched Made in England china.

Produced in one the last remaining factories in Stoke-on-Trent these traditional shaped objects, have a striking plain ‘blank’ glaze and printed with an over-sized Staffordshire back stamp.

Whilst the elegant shape of the teapot and cake plate could easily be pictured in Lyons tea room, the bold graphic stamp brings them bang up to date and proudly celebrates the industrial heritage of the country.

View the collection here

Designer of The Month

2011-01-17T13:21:00.002Z

This month we take a look at Ella Louis Doran's work and spend five minutes asking her about inspirations and favourite spring places - click here to read more...

The last 30 copies of The Amateur Sailor book have arrived

2011-01-11T14:13:00.003Z

For all of you (and we know there were many) who were sad to have missed out on Alice Pattullo's limited edition printed book; The Amateur Sailor we are giving our subscribers advanced notice that you can now get hold of one of the few remaining copies.

Whilst we were closed over the festive season Alice was busy finishing off these last copies ready for the New Year. We strongly predict that Alice's work will soon be so collectible it'll be hard to get hold of (think Mark Herald originals) so this book offers a fantastic opportunity to have several of her illustrations in one bound copy.

We're never ones to say 'hurry up!' we like to take things at a slower pace, but in this special case, as not to be disappointed, we'd say 'be quick about it' because once these have gone there's no more Sailor books to be had!

The Amateur Sailor book, £16

We're back and ready for 2011 with new collections and exciting collabortaions

2011-01-04T12:15:00.004Z

We're so excited about 2011. We're already busy with new collections arriving at the studio, developing secret collaborations and curating the new exhibition. You'll of course be the first to hear all about these, but for now why not take a look at the new window featuring Clara Francis' jewellery and Abigail Brown's textile birds.

Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas - We're back in the New Year!

2010-12-21T09:42:00.002Z

A big thank you to all our customers, bloggers and journalists for making 2010 a great year for the shop!

We are about to embark on a few days of replenishment but we'll be back unveiling some brilliant new collections in the new year. But for now we hope you have a lovely festive break and enjoy the snow - or if you hate the cold take warmth in the fact that it's the winter solstice today and the days get longer from now.

If you place an order after the 22nd December it will be processed when we return on the 3rd of January.

All the very best, Denise and Samantha

Put Your Feet Up - The Easy Christmas Shopping Weekend + FREE P+P

2010-12-11T11:01:00.011Z

If you can't face the shops, the crowds, the traffic jams this weekend then we suggest staying home, putting on some lovely music (Gregorian chants perhaps?), pouring yourself a little tipple (sole gin liqueur works for us) and exploring the following delights from our shop which will still get to you in plenty of time for Christmas.

Why not have a browse through the dark, illuminated rooms in The Menagerie exhibition which is full of special objects such as:

Clara Francis' beautiful beaded jewellery (as seen in the Victoria and Albert Museum). Clara hand makes each piece to order and she has guaranteed any order placed before the 15th December will arrive in time for Christmas. Our favourite is the Red Merian Butterfly necklace

Sophie Woodrow's majestic porcelain sculptures. Each piece is a one off and there are three left, including are favourite The Lion:

Other present worthy items that can be sent out straight away include the following:

If you know someone that loves fashion and old films then Alice Pattullo's Polka Dot print would be a perfect gift:

For the ultra stylish how about one of Ella Louis Doran's silk scarves that look like epic watercolours:

These stunning clutch bags made with African textiles and finished with gold detailing are a real winner:

For the T-Shirt lovers why not look to Lee May Fosters ethically produced, hand printed beauties:

For collectors of special decorations what could be more unusual than, Royal College of Art graduate, Daniel Heath's beach wood circus baubles:

Or how about some fun tights from Scottish designer Hilary Laing - they arrive in a beautiful little package:

For a festive addition to the kitchen why not hang one of these hand printed linen tea-towels on the aga:

The ever popular Bumble Bee Necklace would be welcomed by many:

For the chap who like his cider why not remind of wassailing tradition brought to life in Alice Pattullo's limited edition print:

There are many, many more items in the shop that would make ideal gifts this Christmas. If you want to call or email with any questions about delivery or gift wrapping we'd love to hear from you: 01229 581159 or info@theshopfloorproject.com

Plus don't forget about the Free P+P on all orders - just type in the word BERRY in the discount box at the checkout.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS SHOPPING XX

Christmas Delivery Times

2010-12-07T16:42:00.003Z

Just to let you know that the last delivery date to get your items in time for Christmas is December 20th 2010 (for UK orders).

Visit our Sister Site for A Box of Seasonal Delights

2010-12-07T13:03:00.008Z

If you can't spare the time, money or energy to get yourself to a Parisian arcade for some seriously special Christmas shopping then you might find the answer is closer to home. We suggest you put your feet up in a warm room with a tipple of your choice, settle down and treat yourself to a perusal of the box of delights that is The Secret Arcade. Peer through the windows of 29 hand picked shops to find a host of wonderful handmade gifts for all your family and friends. Then with a clickety click you will be transported to a range of great websites not only will you be rewarded with a glittering array of gorgeous goodies but you will find great offers in many of the shops that are participating in The Secret Arcade's Xmas Treasure Hunt.

See below for an index that accompanies the 'box of delights' or if you would like a quick peek see the product catalogue which has a selection of their fabulous wares!

1. Apolline (Children's Passage)

2. Sarah Jayne Guest (Homewares Passage)

3. Akong London (Jewellery Passage)

4. Olive loves Alfie (Children's Passage)

5. Leju (Jewellery Passage)

6. Louise Body (Home Decoration Passage)

7. Willow&Stone (Home Decoration Passage)

8. Belle& Boo (Children's Passage)

9. The Littlecote Soap Co. (Beauty&Perfume Passage)

10. Tulip & Nettle (Children's Passage)

11. Essentially-Me (Beauty&Perfume Passage)

12. Sarah Hardaker (Homewares Passage)

13. Turner Pocock (Home Decoration Passage)

14.Radiance Lighting (Home Decoration Passage)

15. Beautiful Soul (Fashion & Accessories Passage)

16. Ciara Healy (Books, Prints & Art Passage)

17. Ghost Furniture (Homewares Passage)

18. A Little Bit of Art (Books, Prints & Art Passage)

19. Ray Stitch Habedashery (Fashion & Accessories Passage)

20. Helen Musselwhite (Books, Prints & Art Passage)

21. Clara Francis (Jewellery Passage)

22. Blue Bell Gray (Homewares Passage)

23. Sarah Home (Jewellery Passage)

24. Molly - Meg (Children's Passage)

25. Tamara Fogle (Fashion & Accessories Passage)

26. Alexia Fashion (Fashion & Accessories Passage)

27. Simply Roses (Beauty&Perfume Passage)

28. Dark Horse (Jewellery Passage)

29. Mandarina Shoes (Fashion & Accessories Passage)

The Leather Sweet Shop Collection by Natalie Thakur - Perfect presents under £30

2010-12-03T16:55:00.007Z

Here we have what we call perfect Christmas present material; small, limited edition, unusual and beautifully packaged objects which are under £30.

Working with Natalie Thakur is always a pleasure for us. Her products are incredibly fun but most importantly beautifully made. We have recently collaborated with Natalie to create the new Sweet Shop Collection which was born after long, nostalgic discussions were we shared memories of our favourite corner shop sweets. Natalie soon disappeared into her studio to translate our favourites into a collection of amazing, leather versions of the sugary treats.

Foil Wrapped Toffees

They arrive all lined in suede and protected in fabric stripy bags which are made to look like paper penny sweet bags - so your sweet purse arrives just like the way you'd buy sweets in a shop!

Our favourites from the collection are the Sugar mice and the Foil Wrapped Toffees - See below for the full collection:

The Sugar Mouse

The Mint Humbug

The Licorice Allsort

Click here to see the full collection...

FREE P+P and new Recycled Gift Boxes

2010-12-01T16:16:00.004Z

To offer a little helping hand this Christmas we are offering our customers free P+P from now until the 18th December on all orders. Simply type the word BERRY in the discount box at the checkout for free P+P.

Also, our search for ethical and high quality gift boxes is over! All our jewellery will now be arriving in black presentation boxes (free of charge) which are supplied by The Tiny Box Company which was set up by Rachel Watkyn who believes that "boxes and bags made of 100% recycled paper pulp is the way forward. No plastic nasty smelling, cough incurring toxins here". For larger items we use unbleached tissue paper together by our bespoke paper ribbon - very stylish even if we do say ourselves!

Happy Christmas Shopping!

Imaginative Hand Made Gifts for Men

2010-11-25T17:03:00.014Z

Is it a myth that its hard to buy presents for men? Well obviously it depends on the man, but even the most present-worthy chap can pose a problem. I think the difficulty arises due to the lack of high quality, good value items out there specifically for men. How many men actually want golf tees or a pack of three handkerchiefs? I don't know any!

So with this in mind we have put together an imaginative little gift guide for our menfolk who, lets face it, deserve better than a novelty torch on a keyring!

Gifts for Men

A really special T-Shirt. Ethically made in the softest cotton and hand printed by designer Bonbi Forest in her Cornwall studio. A bare winter tree provides shelter for a white rabbit. £25

A magnificent one-off sculpture by artist Sophie Woodrow. If he likes the weired and the wonderful this Lion Hybrid Figure might be right up his street. £360

For the aspiring sailor or captain, this wonderful limited edition, hand-printed book by artist Alice Pattullo was selected for the Guardian's Gift Guide this year and Kate Carter the editor commented 'its more like a work of art than a book', £16

Detail of the Sailor Book

An inspiring alternative to the everyday wallet. This over sized One Penny coin wallet is made from embossed saddlery leather and lined in suede. Perfect for loose change and will fit a credit card and folded notes, £29

Another T-Shirt by Bonbi Forest designer Lee May Foster. A lovely illustration of a storm cloud with text that reads 'It Came Howling on The Wind' - as featured in the Independent's Gift Guide

For the dapper man who likes a silk scarf/cravat to wear with his jacket, this hand printed silk scarf would be perfect. It arrives in a smart black box wrapped in acid-free tissue paper like the old fashioned way silk scarves were wrapped.

A dramatic limited edition print by Alice Pattullo which depicts the maritime myth of the seven whistler birds which foresee danger, £45

A fun gift for those who like clever craftsmanship and the Edwardian circus. A two part mobile bauble which is hand printed and laser cut from beech ply by Royal College of Art graduate Daniel Heath. Limited edition, £28

Does he love coffee? This hand printed linen tea towel makes a great framed print and is almost too nice to use to dry the pots, £9

Another T-shirt by Lee May Foster, this time featuring a lovely winter star filled with forest scenes in a lovely deep purple colour, £25

A striking cushion by Daniel Heath. Soft needle cord is printed with his signature circus print and filled with a feather cushion. £75

Handmade Bags for the Party Season!

2010-11-19T15:09:00.005Z

Following on from the success of African designer Dolapo James’ clutch bags this summer, we commissioned her to create a limited edition collection of five clutch bags specially for the winter party season.

So in the blazing heat of Lagos’ vast textile market, Dolapo new just the fabric she wanted for the cold British winter. Passionate about the heritage of West African fabrics she selected these bold designs which feature gold accents and have more than a nod to the 1930’s which, with the traditional snap clutch shape, give the bags a distinctively vintage feel.

Fully padded and lined in contrasting fabrics. Large clutch bag £59 exclusively available in the Bag Department

Look Who's Shopping!

2010-11-17T11:32:00.005Z

When shopping I always take a sneaky peak at what my fellow shoppers are buying. This could be in a department store, antique shop or even the supermarket. In fact, the other day I was in the queue at my local grocery shop when I saw someone in front of me had found the Christmas Stollen cake that I had missed, I abandoned the queue and went and found one for myself!

The Shop Floor Project is filled to it's virtual rafters with tantalising objects and we estimate it would take nine hours to look at each item. So to offer a little help and inspiration we asked three of our 'professional shoppers' to choose a selection of their favourite gifts...

Buying a handmade gift needs a little planning...

2010-11-12T11:53:00.011Z

If you want something extra special this year, something that's been made just for you, then it's a good idea to plan a head a little. Below is a selection of objects from the shop which are specially made to order and that will be delivered in time for Christmas.

We're also offering FREE RECORDED DELIVERY on ALL orders on any items in the shop placed from now until midnight on Sunday 14th November. Just type in the word BERRY in the discount box at the checkout to redeem the offer.

Hand - beaded Red Merian Butterfly Necklace, £80

Hand-beaded Butterfly Hoop Earrings, £150

Elsa - hand thrown earthenware jug in Small or Large from £38

Christa - hand thrown earthenware jug in Small or Large from £38

The Power Flower Necklace, £265

Fabric Bird - Blue Tit £140

Fabric Bird, Song Thrush, £140

Flying Gold Bird Necklace, £79

Leather Stripey Carrier, £140

Pigeon Wing Lamp, £595

Circus Cushion, feather filled, £75

Christmas arrives at The Shop Floor Project!

2010-11-02T17:01:00.003Z

We've been secretly working away since May finding collections that we think make perfect gifts for Christmas - precious things which are worth putting under any tree. Prices range from £10 to £500 and every object in the shop is beautifully made and is something to treasure.

The winter wonderland feeling starts in the new shop window with it's snowy scene and takes you into the shop where you can explore the 2010 Gift Guide, see what our Christmas Shoppers have chosen, read about the new Designer of the Month and have a browse around the Bauble Room.

We know it's a little early so we won't go on about Christmas cards and last minute shopping - there's plenty of time for that - but for the early birds amongst us, we thought you'd like to see what we've been up to!

Start your festive exploration here

The new Art Books, Prints and Cards Room opens today

2010-10-28T10:30:00.007+01:00

Designed to look like an old libray, the new Art Books, Prints and Cards Room is crammed with glorious objects for the paper lovers of this world.

The room also includes our latest discovery, Brighton-based artist Alice Pattullo. Each year we select a collection by a recent graduate to add to the shop. We are sent hundreds of submissions throughout the year and we’re always on the look out for something really special - and we’ve found it in Alice Pattullo’s work.

A graduate of Illustration at Brighton University, Alice explores the possibilities of traditional screen-printing to achieve the vintage textures and colours found on antique posters, advertising boxes and paperbacks.

What has really struck us about Alice’s work is her sophisticated mixture of images and historical references. The themes she uses in her work which can be as varied as 1930's Broadway musicals, Scrimshaw, American folklore and even historical hairstyles. Her work conjures up contradictions; the images appear frivolous but are often macabre, the colours are nostalgic but also sinister and the overall feel is genuinely historical but bang up to date.

This print, We're in the Money is part of a series that looks at Busby Berkeley musicals from the 1930's and 40's.

Our prediction is Alice Pattullo is one to watch. The new Whistles store in Brighton agrees and recently commissioned Alice to create the ‘secret street signage’ around the town to direct customers to the store.

View Alice's work in the new Art Books, Prints and Cards Room.

Cabinet of Wearable Wonders

2010-10-25T11:09:00.005+01:00

New York based jeweller, Erica Weiner creates unusual jewellery which often conjures up images of antique entomology cabinets stuffed with wonders - just perfect for our annual online exhibition The Menagerie; works inspired by the natural world.

Erica creates delicate and wearable sculptures using the ‘remnants of life’, such as a 65-million-year-old fossil of a Nautilus shell which is cast inside and out in silver, the minuscule pelvis of a mouse, the vertebrae of a small snake to, my favourite, the unbelievably tiny bronze skull of a hummingbird.

Erica's cabinet can be found The Menagerie exhibition.

New Kitchen Linen Room Opens Today

2010-10-21T16:58:00.004+01:00

A collection of hand-printed linen t-towels and canvas shoppers by British illustrator Megan Price has just been launched in the all new Kitchen Linen room.

Megan's collection includes her signature prints inspired by vintage signage and packaging, old cafes and the wealth of imagery found by the British seaside. Traveling around the country Megan photographs and sketches fading signs, menu boards and items for sale such as cakes and breakfasts. Coming back to her studio in Manchester she translates these sketches into hand printed textiles using only the best quality 100% cotton twill.

TIP: A customer told us that she had framed her Cake Time tea towel in the kitchen instead of using it - making a bold, graphic statement.

Visit the Linen Room to see the full collection

Hybrid Creatures - Porcelain Sculptures

2010-10-19T14:29:00.004+01:00

Sophie Woodrow’s porcelain figures have been collected by devoted private patrons for over ten years and can be seen on display in numerous high-profile galleries throughout the UK. We are excited that she has exclusively created these five one-off pieces for The Menagerie Exhibition.

Sophie was drawn to working with clay from an early age. A graduate of the prestigious Falmouth College of Art she has refined an intricate labour-intensive technique involving coiling, incising and impressing to create a delicately textured surface.

Pursuing an interests in natural history, Sophie has looked particularly at our continually shifting theories of evolution. With an interest in the Victorians and their exploration of nature, these one-off porcelain sculptures resemble the hybrid creatures found deep in the archive of Victorian medical collections.

These creatures are not visitors from other worlds, but the ‘might have beens’ of this world.

The five pieces are available from The Menagerie Exhibition -under Sophie Woodrow

Threadbare Birds

2010-10-19T14:03:00.005+01:00

Get ready to fall in love!

These beautiful studies of British garden birds, made using recycled fabric by artist Abigail Brown, have to be seen to be believed.

Recently exhibited in Liberty’s of London and in the windows of the grand Takashimaya department store on New York’s Fifth Avenue, these little limited edition creatures have now flown into our Menagerie exhibition.

Perfect gifts for ornithologists or just for those who love stunning objects made out of re-used materials.

The collection can be seen here.