THE LEDGER: YOUR MASTER SOURCING LIST
For deep-dive journals and photographic studies of UK-made icons, visit The Edit. Here in The Ledger you’ll find our ever-expanding directory of UK makers with details on their origins, products and more.
These are short-form entries - distilled intelligence on heritage, provenance and why these brands deserve a place in your collection. As our field research continues, we’ll produce full photographic reviews in The Edit.
THOMAS SMITH'S TRUGS - Herstmonceux, East Sussex
The Heritage: Established in 1829, Thomas Smith is the original inventor of the Sussex Trug. The company continues to handcraft these iconic wooden baskets in East Sussex, operating as the last facility actively training apprentices in this critically endangered craft.
The Verdict: A cornerstone of UK horticultural equipment. Crafted from sustainably coppiced local sweet chestnut and willow, a traditional Sussex trug represents an ideal intersection of historical utility, regional identity and environmental sustainability.
Core Products: Traditional wooden garden trugs and harvesting baskets.
NUTSCENE - Angus, Scotland
The Heritage: Established in Dundee in 1922 - the historic heart of the jute manufacturing industry - Nutscene earned its clever name from its original "Greentwist" twine, which, when tied around a plant, could "not be seen". Today, operating out of the County of Angus, they still wind their world-famous twines using the exact same machinery introduced over a century ago.
The Verdict: An absolute essential for the potting shed. Nutscene remains the gold standard for quality, colourful jute twine. Crafted from biodegradable materials sourced from sustainable resources, their iconic centre-dispensing spools prevent unravelling and tangling, making them the preferred choice for gardeners and craftsmen worldwide.
Core Products: Heritage colourful jute garden twine, macrame cord, and natural raffia.
Full Review in The Edit: Read it Here.