Urban Twist Blog

The Tuesday Twist: 15 May

The Tuesday Twist: 15 May

As May is one of the most popular months to move house due to the weather finally warming and longer sunnier days, it comes as no surprise that this week in the studio we have busy filling orders for housewarming gifts! Moving home can be such an exciting time! A fresh start, a chance to get organised, and a brand new layout surely outweigh the troubles of packing....and then unpacking...the multitude of boxes. 

Whether you are searching for that perfect gift for a family member or friend who has just moved into a new home, or looking for something special for your own home, we encourage you to explore our range of unique products with a personal touch!

Key Holders

Our key holders are not only a great way to keep track of your keys, but each piece is designed, assembled and engraved in our Edinburgh studio, crafted from the highest quality cuts of wood. Choose from two lovely frame finishes, Matt Black or Matt White, each of which is accompanied by the matching Matt Acrylic. We offer a range of sizes to fit your family!

Photo Frames

Whether it was the moment you said 'I do', that special family trip of a lifetime or the birth of a new baby, commemorate the extra special moments in life with our handmade photo frames. We offer a wide range of styles, colours, and sizes to choose from.

Keyrings

Our sttylish keyrings are crafted from sustainably sourced solid oak, genuine distressed leather and brushed metallic acrylic. These make the perfect little gifts for anniversaries, birthdays, new homes and many more occasions!

Plants with Puns

We are absolutely in love with these charming potted plant holders courtesy of Rub a Dub Shrub. We think these would make great housewarming gifts that really let your personality shine! While they might not be from the Urban Twist studio, we felt these were too cute not to feature! Be sure to check out their entire range and have yourself a giggle.

Once you have conquered...or at least made a dent in unpacking the boxes, perhaps a housewarming party is in store for all those family and friends anxious to see your new digs. Moving can be a challenging and expensive time so throwing a party on a budget is ideal. Here are a few of our favourite Pinterest finds that are creative and inexpensive:

Be creative with paint swatches!

  

Stock your party with finger foods that are budget friendly and a cinch to make!

   

Keep your favours sweet and simple!

 

Connect With Us

If you don't already, be sure to follow us on social media and sign up for our bi-monthly newsletter to be the first to hear about promotions, new products and current trends!

  

Posted on May 16, 2018
Cameron Pitcairn
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The Tuesday Twist: 1 May

The Tuesday Twist: 1 May

Nothing defines springtime better than the glorious warm weather and blossoming flowers and trees all across the city. We here at the Urban Twist studio draw much inspiration from these natural elements. From our family trees and photo frames to our wedding stationary and engraved notebooks, we have striven to capture the beauty of nature in many of our artworks.

Potted Plants & Rose Garden Key Holders

Each of our key holders are crafted in house at our Edinburgh studio from the highest quality cuts of solid wood and matt acrylic. These make great gifts for anyone moving into a new home or to simply add a bit of nature to your home that never needs watering!

Explore Our Key Holders

 

Floral Photo Frames

Our range of handcrafted photo frames add an extra special element with the intricate engraving details and a special line of personalised text! Choose from four stunning brushed metallic shades and 3 different sizes!

Explore Our Photo Frames


Family Trees

 Our range of unique family tree artwork uses every element from the roots to the tip of  the leaves to create stunning engraved, 3D and illuminated pieces of art! No matter what your family size, we can work with you to find the perfect fit.

Explore Our Family Trees

Wooden Engraved Notebooks 

What better way to plan your garden or give the perfect gift to the nature lover than with one of our wooden engraved A5 notebooks? With over 15 designs to choose from and optional refillable paper pads, these notebooks can be enjoyed and used over and over again!

Connect With Us

If you don't already, be sure to follow us on social media and sign up for our bi-monthly newsletter to be the first to hear about promotions, new products and current trends!

  

 

 

Posted on May 01, 2018
Cameron Pitcairn
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The Tuesday Twist: 17 April

The Tuesday Twist: 17 April

Dust off Your Running Shoes!

This weekend the world will tune in to watch the 2018 Virgin Money London Marathon. Whether you are running, walking or cheering from the sidelines, this will no doubt be an event to remember! This annual long-distance running event, which is classed as part of the World Marathon Majors, has taken place every Spring since March 1981.
Since its founding, more than £68 million has been allocated by The London Marathon Charitable Trust in total to more than 1,200 recreational projects and the runners themselves have raised in excess of £890 million, which has gone directly to charities of their choosing.
Click HERE to find out how you can get involved!
The London Marathon Expo will run from Wednesday 18 April to Saturday 21 April and the actual Marathon will take place on Sunday 22nd April. For all the ins and outs of the event, visit the official website below.

Architectural Inspiration

 
As the runners and spectators take their marks for this weekend's Marathon, we are excited to see the amazing photography that emerges, capturing the juxtaposition of both athlete and architecture. The iconic structures and buildings that line nearly every street in London are without a doubt some of our favourite and have served as our artistic inspiration.
From the Gothic-style Houses of Parliament to the modern London Eye, our artwork strives to capture the rich architectural history of London while incorporating a unique twist of colour!
  
 
To explore the changing architecture throughout time be sure to check out 11 Lovely Centuries of London courtesy of A Lady in London. 

Spring in the City

If you are heading to London for the marathon, why not carve out a bit of time to take in the city at the most glorious time of year? While London is a great place to visit at any time of yeer and in any weather, it's at its finest at the heart of Spring! Not only is the city a blooming garden, there are less tourists compared to summer, and ample amounts of events to attend!
If you need some inspiration for things to do, be sure to check out 10 Reasons to Experience Spring in London, courtesy of Merry-Go-Round. Slowly.

Connect With Us

If you don't already, be sure to follow us on social media and sign up for our bi-monthly newsletter to be the first to hear about promotions, new products and current trends!

     

Posted on April 17, 2018
Cameron Pitcairn
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The Tuesday Twist: 3 April

The Tuesday Twist: 3 April

Spring is officially here! As the flowers begin to bloom all around the city and the sunshine graces us with its presence a few hours longer each day, we are getting geared up for wedding season, new babies and birthday parties galore! Here at the Urban Twist studio we have been busy creating new collections of products just bursting with colour and style that would be the perfect gift for any of these occasions.

Table Light Collection

“To love beauty is to see light.” Victor Hugo

We are very excited to reveal our newest range of trendy table lights that make truly thoughtful and unique gifts! Each light is crafted from a 5mm clear acrylic and individually engraved to your personal specifications, creating a stunning effect when illuminated. 

Be sure to check out our entire range of Table Lights HERE

 

Wooden Layered Family Trees

Our personalised family trees are the perfect way to show the deep roots you share with your loved ones! With a wide range of design options available it's easy to find the perfect fit to accommodate your family size. These wonderful 8 x 8 inch designs are produced across three layers of lasercut wood and assembled to create unique gifts for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries or 'just because.'
Checkout our full range HERE

  

Personalised Mini Photo Frames

Our handcrafted mini photo frames are the perfect way to display one of your most memorable moments while adding a pop of colour to any room! Perfect for your Instagram and Facebook sized photos! 
We offer a range of colours and designs so be sure to click through our entire collection HERE

  

Personalised Key Holders

Our handcrafted key holders are available in a range of design options and sizes to accommodate any family! These are ideal for any household!
Explore our full range HERE
  

Connect With Us

If you don't already, be sure to follow us on social media and sign up for our bi-monthly newsletter to be the first to hear about promotions, new products and current trends!

  

Posted on April 03, 2018
Cameron Pitcairn
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The Tuesday Twist: 6 March

The Tuesday Twist: 6 March

It's All About Mum

The countdown is on to Mother's Day! This Sunday (11 March) we celebrate all the amazing mums who have been there through thick and thin, who have always put themselves last and who love unconditionally. Whether you are looking for something special for a brand new mother or a veteran grandmother, we want their day to be unforgettable.
At Urban Twist we take pride in creating unique artworks and gifts that keep the recipient at heart. It is our biggest accolade to hear all the positive feedback from our happy customers upon receiving their personalised gifts. So this year, why not show Mum just how much she means to you by giving her one of our truly thoughtful one-of-a-kind presents? 

Here are a few of our favourite Mother's Day picks this season:

Personalised Tulip Photo Frame

This stunning handmade photo frame is available in four brushed metallic shades and can be personalised with two lines of special text!

Personalised Child's Drawing Keyring

Turn your child's special drawing into a lasting keepsake with our personalised leather and wood keyring! Each keyring is crafted from sustainably sourced solid oak and comes packaged in a custom gift box. You can also include a personalised engraved message on the reverse side making this the perfect Mother's Day gift!

 

Personalised Mother's Day Magnets

Wish your Mum a happy Mother's Day with this fun wooden engraved magnet! Choose from three designs and add two lines of your own personalised text. Your Mum will remeber how much she is loved every time she sees this magnet on the refrigerator or other magnetic surface. 

 

Personalised Mini Family Trees

Our family trees are a beautiful way to remind Mum of how much she is loved by her entire family, even the pets! These mini versions can be displayed on a table or mantelpiece, or hung on the wall. They are also the perfect size to ship anywhere around the world.

Engraved Wooden Notebooks

Our range of wooden engraved notebooks are available personalised or non-personalised and are refillable! We offer a wide range of designs and colours!
 

Last but not least...don't forget the sweets!

Looking for some sweet treats for Mum? Our mouths are watering over these beautiful cupcake creations from Juniper Cakery. 

We also can't wait to try out some innovative drinks such as the Grapefruit and Rosemary Mocktail, Italian Cream Soda and the French 75. The best part is, these mocktail concoctions are perfectly safe for the whole family to enjoy! For a full list of mocktails be sure to visit the Buzzfeed article HERE.

  

Connect With Us

If you don't already, be sure to follow us on social media and sign up for our bi-monthly newsletter to be the first to hear about promotions, new products and current trends!

  

Posted on March 06, 2018
Cameron Pitcairn
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The Tuesday Twist: 20 February

The Tuesday Twist: 20 February

The little thing that holds our lives together....

the Key Ring!

A key ring is perhaps the single most important belonging you possess. With keys to your open your home,car and locks to other belongings, as well as meaningful accessories such as pictures and personalised mementos, the key ring is essentially the glue that holds together the things that are most important to us.
Keys themselves were used as early as 4000 years ago thanks to the invention of the ancient Egyptian door locks, and were considered symbols of power. The keyring is equally old and is as significant.

In Ancient Roman times, the key ring took a more literal approach due to a lack of pockets in their togas. The ancients often wore keys on their fingers to avoid losing them.

Throughout history the keyring has retained it's symbol of significance. Much like the Ancient Egyptian assertion that keys = power and importance, keyrings have often been used in ceremonial displays such as the Tower of London's Ceremony of the Keys. This 700 year old ancient ceremony is a symbolic re-enactment which emphasises the importance these keys play in the security of the Crown Jewels and many other invaluable objects housed within the Tower.

 

Find out more about the Ceremony of the Keys HERE

Modern day keyrings are not just a device to keep track off one's keys. Available in a range of materials, sizes and shapes, the addition of customised accessories are endless! From bottle openers, picture lockets, charms or even a lucky rabbit's foot, the ability to personalise your keyring and make it your own has never been easier! 

   

We here at the Urban Twist studio recognise the significance of creating meaningful keyrings. We strive to provide individualised designs and personalisation options that the recipient is sure to treasure as a valued keepsake!

With our newest range of Personalised keyrings you can commemorate a birthday or milestone anniversary, congratulate someone on their move into a new home, send someone a thoughtful reminder of how much they mean to you, or remind yourself of a fabulous holiday in a far away country!

  

Our keyrings are crafted from sustainable solid oak and are made to order with your personal specifications. You can also choose to include an optional special message to be engraved on the reverse side. Each keyring comes with an metal ring and lobster clasp, allowing it to be easily attached to your keys, bags or anywhere you would like!

Be sure to check out our Key Ring Collection HERE!

 

Connect With Us

If you don't already, be sure to follow us on social media and sign up for our bi-monthly newsletter to be the first to hear about promotions, new products and current trends!

  

Posted on February 20, 2018
Cameron Pitcairn
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The Tuesday Twist: 6 February

The Tuesday Twist: 6 February

New loves, old flames, best pals....We have gifts for all!

With just over a week left until Valentine's Day you may be still looking for that perfect gift for someone you love. When it comes to significant others, you probably know how difficult it can be to come up with unique Valentine's gift ideas that aren't verging on corny. The task of finding something thoughtful but also something they will actually enjoy is our specialty! Whether you are celebrating your 1st Valentine's with your partner or your 50th we can help you find a romantic gift that will have a lasting impression! 
Our brushed metallic Personalised Photo Frames are a great way to show off your favourite romantic moments. Each frame is handmade in our Edinburgh based studio and engraved with your special text! 
Looking for a unique way to propose? Your significant other will be completely surprised to find that 'special question' on a charming photo frame! This is truly a Valentine's Day gift they will never forget!
We also have just the thing for a friendly 'Palentines'. Treat your friends to one of our adorable personalised decorations with your own special text or if you are having a Valentine's party be sure to check out our range of wine glass charms featuring hearts, lips and more! 
 
 

 Foodie Valentines

When it comes to giving Valentine's Day gifts, we certainly can't forget our foodie friends! Whether it's a romantic diner for two or a delightful Valentine inspired sweet treats you're after, these recipes are sure to hit their target!

Love Potion #9 Martini

 This adorable cocktail is a must try for adults! Not only does it taste delicious, the swirling potion effect and strawberry heart garnish make it look as if cupid himself has shaken this little beauty up!

Romantic Valentine's Dinner at Home

If you are looking for a sinfully delicious array of Valentine's treats for every taste, Embellishmints has just the article. From caprese stuffed chicken to spinach strawberry champagne salad, you will have no trouble creating a taste sensation for your loved one!
 
 

Connect With Us

If you don't already, be sure to follow us on social media and sign up for our bi-monthly newsletter to be the first to hear about promotions, new products and current trends!

     

 
Posted on February 06, 2018
Cameron Pitcairn
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The Tuesday Twist: 23 January

The Tuesday Twist: 23 January

Thoughtful Giving

The season of love is fast approaching with Valentine's Day just around the corner! Whether you are looking for a unique gift for that 'special someone' or celebrating a Palentine's with a dear friend, our range of personalised gifts are sure to add that thoughtful element to your gift giving!

When it comes to giving the perfect gift, it doesn't always have to be about huge bouquets of roses and expensive jewellery...although those are things nice sometimes. Sometimes a more simple expression of love and appreciation is all you need to show your loved ones just how much they mean to you.

Our range of Valentines hanging decorations can be customised to your specific needs and are easy to include in a greeting card or hung around the house for a sweet surprise! Click on the images to learn more!

   

My Love is like a red, red rose

Nobody speaks to love quite like the Scottish poet Robert Burns. Notoriously fluent in the language of the heart, Burns incorporated sentiment and love into many of his works. One of our favourite pieces is the 1794 romantic poem entitled Red Red Rose. This poem is a popular reading at weddings and is recited every Valentine's Day by many a romantic.

    

This piece also takes center-stage at the annual Scottish celebratory event on 25 January known as Burns Night. This institution of Scottish life is a night to celebrate the life and work of the nations beloved poet. Among the traditional Scottish foods and whisky, the evening is full of bagpipes, songs and poetry all in honour of the brilliant Bard! If you would like to find out how to celebrate a traditional Burns Night, click HERE

Now you can display the brilliance of Robert Burns with one of our artworks featuring Red, Red Rose! Choose from a mini version measuring at 4.5 x 4.5 inches or our 12 x 12 inch larger version with a personalisation option!
 

  

We also offer a stunning Rose Photo Frame available in both 6 x 4 and 7 x 5 sizes to display your favourite moments, perhaps even those Burns Night memories!

To learn more about Robert Burns, be sure to check out his biography and access his full list of poems courtesy of the Scottish Poetry Library HERE 

Connect With Us

If you don't already, be sure to follow us on social media and sign up for our bi-monthly newsletter to be the first to hear about promotions, new products and current trends!

     

Posted on January 23, 2018
Cameron Pitcairn
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The Tuesday Twist: 9 January

The Tuesday Twist: 9 January

Happy New Year!

It's a brand new year and the Urban Twist studio is bursting with fresh ideas to add to our wide range of products! If you don't already, be sure to follow us on social media and sign up for our bi-monthly newsletter to be the first to hear about promotions, new products and current trends!

Pantone's Colour of the Year...Ultra Violet

Just what exactly is PANTONE Colour of the Year?

Every year since 2000, the Pantone Color Institute selects a particular colour to be 'Colour of the Year.' This symbolic selection serves to represent the mood and attitude of what is taking place in our global culture. 

Described as a 'provocative and thoughtful purple shade', Ultra Violet communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future. 

Pantone has also thoughtfully created 8 color palettes to help you incorporate and pair this year's special shade, Ultra Violet! Throughout the year we will explore each palette and how the hues can cross-over into home decor, wedding accessories and other design trends. This week we look at....

KINDRED SPIRITS

Sitting side by side on the color wheel, Pantone describes these shades as 'like-minded hues...their spirited good humor and playful exuberance makes for easy and engaging color mixes.”

We think that this colour palette embraces the beautiful watercolour effect of hydrangea flowers!

These shades would be stunning for a spring wedding, especially when paired with our range of Personalised Wedding Name Place Cards in the colours of fuchsia, amethyst and purple!

 New Year, New You!

Trying to keep those New Year's resolutions can often be a tough endeavor. As the year roles on, the 'new year, new you' vendetta often starts to fizzle. This year, try focusing on resolutions that are not only logistically achievable but ones you will actually enjoy carrying out! To help you stay on course, detail the steps involved and your progress along the way.

Our Wooden Engraved Notebooks are the perfect place to keep track of your success! These A5 oak notebooks featuring a 'living hinge' spine come in a range of designs and colours and can be easily refilled with our lined or unlined paper pad inserts!

We particularly love our wooden notebooks with the lilac paper pad insert that captures a variation of the Ultra Violet trend!

 

Posted on January 09, 2018
Cameron Pitcairn
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The Tuesday Twist: 19 December

The Tuesday Twist: 19 December

Last Minute Holiday Planning

Christmas is officially less than a week away! With trees in place and presents nestled safely underneath, the anticipated wait is nearly over! However, if you need a little last minute holiday inspiration this week's Tuesday Twist is for you!

Holidays Await!

You might be breaking from traditional celebrations this year and going on holiday this Christmas! If your plans have changed or if you just want an impromptu trip, there are many incredible Christmas Getaway options right here in the UK that would be a perfect location to spend time with family and friends. We can't help but feel proud that our very own city of Edinburgh made the list! Check out the Top 10 UK Christmas Destinations courtesy of Essential Travel.

 

Move Over Eggnog! 

This Christmas why not try out a few festive cocktails to put right in the holiday spirit! Our mouths are watering to sample the Sparkling Apple Pie Cocktail the delicious Gingerbread Latte Martini or the Campfire Cocktail! Click on the images for instructions.

Easy DIY Gifts

Clear Christmas Baubles filled with hot cocoa mix or candies make easy yet delicious gifts that can be assembled in no time! Check out a few of our favourite ideas or click here for 75 Ways to Fill Clear Glass Ornaments courtesy of Refunk My Junk.

     

Edible Delights: From easy to make savory salts and rubs to sweet scone and cookie mixes these DIY Christmas Treats are sure to be a hit!

 
    
Posted on December 19, 2017
Cameron Pitcairn
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The Tuesday Twist: 12 December

The Tuesday Twist: 12 December

There is still time to find the perfect gift for family and friends!
Our range of personalised gifts are the perfect way to show your thoughtfulness. Each product is deigned and crafted in our Edinburgh based studio with the utmost care to ensure you receive a quality product.

Personalised Christmas Decorations

From snowflakes, snowmen and reindeer to pet baubles and Christmas jumpers, our range of Personalised Christmas Decorations are a great little gift to give to family and friends. You can also use these charming decorations as name place holders at your Christmas parties or as stunning gift tags!

Shop Decorations

Personalised Photo Frames

We offer a wide range of handmade wooden photo frames available in four brushed metallic finishes. Each frame offers a unique design and font to feature your own personalised message. 

Shop Photo Frames

Personalised Family Trees

Our family trees come in a range of sizes and designs. Whether your family is big or small, we can create a stunning tree that your loved ones are sure to treasure for years to come! Many of our designs also allow you to include those beloved family pets!

Shop Family Trees

Landmark Artwork

Detailed papercut artwork of some of the most iconic locations around the UK and beyond! Each artwork is framed in a handmade wooden matt black or matt white frame to perfect match your decor.

Personalised Wall Art

Personalised wall art perfect for weddings, new babies, birthdays or just because!

Shop Wall Art

Wooden Notebooks

Our Wooden Engraved Notebooks are the perfect gift this Christmas that can be used for note-taking, sketching, travel journals, personal agendas and so much more! We offer a wide range of design and personalisation options. 

Shop Wooden Notebooks

 

    

Posted on December 12, 2017
Cameron Pitcairn
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The Tuesday Twist: 5 December

The Tuesday Twist: 5 December

Winter Parties

The crisp cool air, the smell of fresh pine Christmas trees and wreaths, warm cinnamon and spice desserts, oh the wonderfulness of Christmas is coming! This is the favourite season for many and a chance to entertain party guests with festive themes!

If you are planning a Christmas party at home or at your workplace why not add a personalised touch this year? We offer a range of customisable decorations and gifts to make your guests feel extra special. These decorations are the perfect size to hang on your Christmas trees or to use as a unique gift tag or even a festive place setting! Here are a few of our favourite rustic designs this season:

Personalised Jumper Decorations available in both a wooden and acrylic finish!

Personalised 'Spiral-Inspired' Large Christmas Decorations available in 9 designs!
Personalised Engraved Christmas Decorations

Be sure to check out our entire range of Christmas Decorations to find the perfect fit for your holiday party theme! Click Here

Food Glorious Food

Nothing says Christmas party like a buffet full of appetisers and cocktails! So whether you're after a deluxe cheese board or a festive Santa 'Clause-mopolitan', you are sure to find inspiration in these awesome articles courtesy of Woman's Day and Nest of Posies!

    

A Handmade Touch

Looking for more of a handmade gift for friends this year that you don’t have to spend much money or time on? A thoughtful handmade gift can be the perfect fit for those hard-to-buy-for coworkers. Be sure to check out these 35 Cheap and Easy Gifts for the Office for creative inspiration.

We just love the rustic theme this year and think these handmade decorations would be a welcome addition to any Christmas party!

   

 

    
Posted on December 05, 2017
Cameron Pitcairn
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