For anyone who knows me or has followed my creative journey, you’ll know that I’ve always had a million ideas bubbling away when it comes to new products. The problem is, every time I sit down to explore these exciting possibilities, I’m greeted by my environmental conscience, perched smugly on my shoulder, tutting at every potential design. I’ve learned to respect that voice, though. It’s stopped me from diving headfirst into product development without a proper plan, and after almost two years of running this business, I now take a more measured approach.
Instead of leaping into the unknown with eyes wide shut, I’ve started thinking about both the financial and environmental impact of every new product I consider. It’s not just about what I want to make; it’s about what I should make.
Brands I Love
When I think about expanding my product range, I often find myself coming back to brands I admire – fellow small businesses, makers, artists, and designers whose work I adore. Many of these talented individuals run content challenges on Instagram, and it’s a real joy to be part of this vital and virtual community. We come together to share our creative spaces, ideas, successes, and even our occasional woes. The collaborative spirit of this group is something I hold dear.
Some of the brands I love are already doing a brilliant job in the product areas I’d like to explore. Whether it’s coasters, table mats, or chopping boards, they’ve already got it nailed. The likes of Katie Cardew, Bean & Bemble, Kitty McCall, Emma J Shipley, Particle Press, and The Hambridge Artist have all carved out their own unique spaces in the highly competitive homewares market. They’re selling these items in spades, and I find their beautiful designs really special.
So, with so many talented creators already out there, why would I throw my hat into the ring? What could I possibly offer that’s any better? I’m honest enough with myself to admit that I don’t think my coasters or chopping boards would stand out among the current crowd. As much as I’d love to design and sell these products, I think my resources are better spent elsewhere.
The Environmental Impact of Product Development
When it comes to expanding my range, my main hesitation stems from environmental concerns. Sure, finances play a role too – especially as a small business – but my environmental conscience has the loudest voice in the room. I’ve made a conscious decision not to add small items like key rings, tote bags, and fridge magnets to my range, even though they make excellent little gifts. Why? Because these items, while fun and functional, often end up in landfill once they’ve outlived their usefulness.
There’s no shortage of businesses, both big and small, already producing these items, so my contribution wouldn’t be all that different. Instead, I’ve focused on partnering with UK-based manufacturers who share my values. It’s incredibly important to me that the products I create are made here in Britain, with ethical and environmental credentials that I can be proud of. After plenty of research, product testing, and a few missteps, I’ve launched a small range of home textiles – tea towels, headscarves, and cushions, all made in small batches.
You could argue that the market for home textiles is already saturated, and you’d probably be right! But by producing in the UK, I can ensure high quality while reducing the environmental impact. Plus, I can keep an eye on my designs as they evolve, making sure they stay fresh and unique.
New Products, New Direction
So, what’s next? Over the past several months, I’ve been working on an idea that began with a single design back in 2021. It all started with a digital representation of King’s College in Taunton, using my own high-resolution acrylic artwork as the foundation. The design was well received, so I expanded the concept to include other local landmarks and buildings. From there, I’ve begun exploring digital collage representations of landscapes, from coastal scenes to the inland hills and uplands.
This new collection launched at Easter as a series of A4 prints, and it’s been a wonderful success. I’m now thinking about how to take this range further – perhaps even incorporating these designs into new home textiles. Time will tell, but I’m excited to see where this new direction might take me.
Upcycled Gifts: A Sustainable Twist
Even my painted glassware – something I never planned to return to – has taken on a new life in recent months. What started as an accidental return to glass painting has now blossomed into a fully-fledged range, incorporating upcycled glass items. I’ve always loved scouring charity shops for unusual glassware to paint, a habit I first picked up in the 1990s. There’s something deeply satisfying about taking a discarded object and turning it into something beautiful and functional.
Now, friends and family regularly save their glass jars and bottles for me to upcycle, helping me breathe new life into objects that might otherwise end up in landfill. It’s not just about sustainability – it’s about finding beauty in the everyday and giving these items a second chance. My upcycled glassware is now available in my Etsy shop, and it’s been wonderful to see people appreciate the uniqueness of each piece.
Looking Ahead
As I continue to grow my business, my focus remains on developing products that align with both my values and my creative vision. While the temptation to expand my range is always there, I know that any new products I introduce need to be well thought out, both financially and environmentally.
I will also continue to champion the reuse and repurposing of packaging. My products are all carefully wrapped in tissue and repurposed ribbon or string, and the outer packaging is usually made from cardboard that I have saved and cut up, as well as reused cardboard mailers and other packaging. Why buy new when these are perfectly serviceable and help me to keep my financial costs and environmental impact lower?!
So, what’s next? Well, I’m excited to continue exploring this new direction with my digital prints, and who knows where it might lead! One thing’s for certain – whether it’s upcycled glassware or vibrant textiles, the heart of my business will always lie in creating something beautiful that people can cherish for years to come.
