Iris Hantverk
Inclusive brushmaking, artisanal brushes by visually impaired craftsmen
Real but tiny social mission (6 visually impaired craftsmen out of 17 employees). Production partially offshored to Estonia without transparency. 30-40% pricier than Bürstenhaus Redecker for equivalent quality. You're paying for Scandinavian storytelling.
Philosophy
Swedish brushmaker founded in 1902 by the Association of the Blind. Visually impaired craftsmen whose tactile sensitivity produces remarkably finished brushes. Beechwood, natural bristles, Stockholm and partially Estonia.
History
Stockholm, 1902. Sweden's Association of the Blind founds a brush workshop to give skilled work to visually impaired people. Visual impairment develops exceptional tactile sensitivity - exactly what's needed to judge bristle density and assembly regularity.
For a century, Iris Hantverk makes brushes in the shadows. In 2012, Richard Sparrenhök and Sara Edhäll reposition the brand. Scandinavian design meets social craftsmanship. Brushes move from hardware stores to concept stores.
The disclaimer: social mission is real but modest (6 visually impaired artisans out of 17 employees). Some production now in Estonia, not clearly mentioned. Prices 30-40% above Bürstenhaus Redecker for equivalent quality. You pay for the story too.
Iconic Products
Brosse a vaisselle ovale
Oiled beechwood dish brush with tampico (agave) fiber. The object that sums up Iris Hantverk: a banal utensil made beautiful. The most photographed dish brush in design blogs. 15 euros entry price.
Brosse pour le corps en crin de cheval
Horsehair dry brushing body brush on beechwood. Dry brushing is a Nordic skincare tradition. The gift product par excellence.
Set pelle et balayette
Beechwood and horsehair dustpan and brush set. In every Scandinavian interior magazine. An object you leave visible because it's as beautiful as it is useful. About 50 euros.