Shops / Shop of the Week
Shop of the Week: Glass Designs, North Street
Tucked in between two restaurants on North Street, Glass Designs is a vibrant hub for local artists and creative minds alike.
First established in 2003, they produce intricate stained glass designs of Bristol’s most well known features, including the Bristol Balloon Festival.
In 2011, Claire Dadswell took over the reins and now runs the shop, collaborating with artists in what she describes as a “relaxed and creative atmosphere”.
is needed now More than ever
Dadswell plays a big role in creating and repairing ornate products in her glass workshop located at the back of the shop.
“When I moved to Bristol almost 30 years ago I was doing textile design,” Dadswell said.
“I got a part-time job in a glass shop on Perry Road.”
It was here where she learned and honed her craft: “I just fell in love with glass and I’ve been making stained glass ever since.”
However, glass pieces are not all Glass Designs have on offer.
As you walk through the shop, you will come across a diverse collection of locally-sourced arts and crafts, such as jewellery, soaps and cards, decorated in such a way to allow for easy browsing.
Framed prints line the walls, showcasing Bristol’s architecture and botanical prints, contributing to the shop’s lively character.
Many of the designs in store are inspired by the artwork of Frida Kahlo
“We love colour,” Dadswell said.
“You’ve got to love colour to work here.”
Glass Designs stocks work from over 80 local independent artists, showcasing their talents to all ages and demographics. Dadswell highlighted two artists, Laura Robertson and Rosie Webb, whose work is popular both in store and at the Sunday Market at the nearby Tobacco Factory.
She said that while their work may compete with hers, “it complements the shop”.
She added: “I’m more than happy to share the artist’s names and I don’t expect to get something back from it. We’re a community of creative people that are working together.”
The community of artists and customers on North Street provides a constant reminder of the power of local craftsmanship.
When Glass Designs first started, it was one of a few shops where local artists could be promoted.
The shop has been beloved by the community ever since, so much so that their unwavering support kept the shop alive during the Covid pandemic.
Dadswell recalled many people saying, “we want to support you and we don’t want to see you go”, a belief that was even held by the shop’s landlord who didn’t charge Dadswell rent during that period.
Looking to the future, Dadswell hopes to expand Glass Design’s social media presence: “We’ve got an Instagram and Facebook but it’s all a bit sporadic. Having that younger influence will make running Glass Designs a lot of quicker.”
Dadswell prides herself on being part of one of many “female-led independent businesses” in Bristol
261 North Street, Bristol BS3 1JN
All Photos: Maya Tailor
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