The New Craftsmen showcases a carefully curated selection of British craft that is fresh, modern, and timely. The assortment draws on the heritage of British makers combined with the ingenuity of younger artists creating a unique mix that is traditional and contemporary. Founded in 2012 as a pop up concept The New Craftsmen has been in its current location, an arts and crafts workshop dating from 1893, since 2014. More than 100 makers are represented across a variety of material and disciplines that include wood, clay, glass, cotton, wool, and metal. The Brodgar Chair by Gareth Neal and Kevin Gauld, and gold-plated scissors by Ernest Wright & Sons are two of the products synonymous with the brand. Customers are those who have a love of beautiful, unique pieces made with passion and soul.

Photo by Gareth Haker

I think people are reverting back to appreciating the knowledge, enthusiasm and dedication of independent retailers – and are making the time to seek these out and make more considered purchases.  Online is increasingly important – but for us it’s also a way to tell the stories of the makers and their objects and bring a richness to the shopping experience even when geography precludes from visiting the space itself.

Mark Henderson, Natalie Melton, and Catherine Lock.

Natalie Melton, Mark Henderson, and Catherine Lock co-founded The New Craftsmen. All three possess a passion for craft. Together they have created an elevated platform to revitalize and support the craft industry in Britain and share the stories of the objects and their makers. They travel throughout the British Isles meeting makers and visiting workshops to source products that complement their assortment. Responsibilities are shared, Mark’s expertise is managing luxury craft businesses, Catherine’s background is in product development, and Natalie formerly worked in marketing, communications and event management.

The cost of rent and rates for independent retailers is obviously a massive issue in a city like London – so its hard to survive on bricks and mortar retail alone – but a city without independent retailers would be very sad indeed – so we all need to make a commitment to celebrating and supporting a diverse independent retail sector.