YSTUDIO - 'The Weight of Words'

We introduced you to Taiwanese design studio, Ystudio, last year. Today, we are happy to announce that founders Yi and Yanko are expanding their range of simplistic, meticulously crafted stationery objects to include two new pens: The ‘Weight of Words’ collection will see the release of The Classic Sketching Pencil and The Classic Ballpoint Pen. The two new additions are made from brushed brass and will be available from April 1st.

‘The Weight of Words’
Yi and Yanko wish to remind us of the beautiful things that have been forgotten as time goes by. “The meaning of writing to modern people has gradually changed […] Writing has evolved from a way to convey words to a medium to express emotions. ‘Weight’ represents not only a deep emotion, but it also stands for a meaningful commitment: deep, heavy and indelible.” 

Manufactured in scorching heat with temperatures of more than one thousand degrees, Ystudio’s stationery pieces are handcrafted by local masters using traditional manufacturing techniques. Material: Brass. Price €70-90.

TWIG – Cold Brew Premium Teas

Founded by tea fanatic, yoga teacher and Japan lover, Iona Carter, TWIG Teas source, cold brew and bottle premium quality teas. After spending her holiday in Kanazawa, where she discovered cold brewed tea for the very first time, she started experimenting with cold brewing techniques and various types of teas. 
That being said, what makes TWIG so special is the fact that it is cold brewed; we are not talking about simply cold tea here, or your standard ice tea (typically brewed hot and then refrigerated). Cold brewing is a unique process that involves steeping tea leaves over a long period of time in cold water, which draws a different flavour profile from the leaf. Compared to hot brewing, the process produces fewer bitter catechins and caffeine, resulting in a sweeter, smoother taste and a naturally refreshing drink. And believe us, you can taste the difference!

As tea purists, “I wanted to create a range of tea drinks that allowed the flavour of real tea to sing for itself, rather than drowning it in fruit flavours and sugar.” 


Currently, the TWIG family comprises four teas, including two black teas: a Darjeeling from India, and a Keemun from China; as well as an Oolong from Taiwan; and a roasted green tea from Japan:
Darjeeling, 'The Champagne of Teas’, originates from India. The 2nd flush black Darjeeling is grown on the ethically-minded Arya estate, established by 18th Century Buddhist monks in the lush green mountains of Darjeeling;
Keemun, from China, used to be known as 'The King of Black Teas’. Keemun is grown exclusively in Qimen, Anhui province, situated between the Yellow Mountains and the Yangtze River;
Oolong is a unique, partially oxidised tea, which sits between black and green varieties. TWIG uses Formosa Oolong, from the Northern Hsinchu area of Taiwan, which grows at an altitude of 800m and has an oxidisation level of 65%;
Bōcha is a Japanese roasted green tea made using the twigs and stalks of the tea plant, rather than the leaves. TWIG’s is produced by the tea master Mr Nakagawa, in Shiga Prefecture. 

FARMERS’ - Hand-made Care Products

Nourishing ingredients, rich in texture but not too oily and greasy. Inspired by the labours of Welsh hill farmers, FARMERS’ produces handmade creams and balms that are based on unique product formulations including their essential ingredient, lavender oil, which comes from flowers just outside their windows. Created by creams designer, Helen Lowe, the FARMERS’ line focuses on ingredients that are beneficial – the products don’t contain any artificial colours or perfumes. 

The FARMERS’ Hand Cream (100ml, £12) nourishes hard working hands with an earthy scent along refreshing peppermint and rosemary notes; their scrub (75ml, £14) is an exceptionally mild and exotic blend of oils of lavender, geranium, frankincense and bamboo powder effectively removing deep set impurities; and the nourishing lip balm (15g, £5) combines their essential lavender oil with lime oil and honey.

Photographed by Ali Baï for GOODS WE LIKE

005 - The Leather Bag by Simon Freund

Simon Freund - the brand which, until now, was commonly known as SIMON&ME, and which you might have come across within several features on GOODS WE LIKE, has undergone a fascinating transformation. Celebrating its global launch during CIFF RAVEN in Copenhagen on August 5th, the forward-thinking brand will from now on carry the name of its visionary, founder and designer: Simon Freund. Apart from re-working all existing products with meticulous attention to detail, quality, and manufacturing, the brand will launch a collection of 20 products, which is grounded in permanent objects that are further added to in irregular regularity.
With a profound understanding for design and the use of materials, 005 – The Leather Backpack is an ideal reflection of Simon Freund’s very personal understanding of design, aesthetic, and functionality. This Made in Germany backpack is made from coated, water repellent and sturdy core leather. The bag features three partitions, and comes with adjustable and felt-padded shoulder straps. Measurements: 30 x 15 x 43cm.

[ simonfreund.com ]