Orkney Museum

Orkney Museum wanted to refresh their retail offering with a bespoke product range that would stand out on the shelves and better reflect their collection.

I developed a range of designs drawing on key objects and patterns from the museum's collection, and then applied across tea towels, t-shirts, notebooks, mugs, bags, lens cloths, stickers and magnets.

Since launching, the range has become a genuine point of interest in the shop, with visitors responding positively to the new designs, and a noticeable lift in engagement and sales.

Retail Merchandise Range

Pattern inspired by the equal arm brooch, shown on the cover of a notebook

One of the patterns I created was inspired by a late 9th century equal-armed brooch (pictured top left), recovered from the Scar boat burial on Sanday and now a feature of the Viking gallery in the museum.

"I have worked with Ruth on many different projects and knew to expect that the whole process will be easy and enjoyable from start to finish. Ruth is approachable, responsive, and always really takes the time to understand what we wanted. Even the suppliers were blown away with the results and praise the design.

The final merchandise have been so well received in the shop. Staff have praised the colour, design and how it makes the retail space more attractive and brighter. Customers regularly comment on how lovely and different they are, and they’ve quickly become a real point of interest. We’ve definitely seen a positive impact on engagement and sales since launching them. I have enjoyed seeing customers try and decide between designs and end up buying both!

What we’re most proud of is how perfectly Ruth’s designs reflect the museum collection on which the gift shop merchandise is based. They feel cohesive, high quality, and exactly right for our space."

Ann Cockerton, Orkney Museum