Laura Buchanan Designs

1. What is your favourite gift to give and receive?

My favourite gift to give is something I can buy locally, is fun and would make the receiver smile.

My favourite gift to receive is anything that has love and thought put into it. My niece Lucia, who’s 6 years old, gives me tiny little hand-made cards all the time with hand written messages in them and they’re just adorable!

2. Where do you get your inspiration for your products from?

I get my inspiration from everyday life in Donegal – the things we say, the places we visit, our home life. I also love the simplicity and colour used in vintage shop packaging and I try to emulate that style in my work.

3. What are your thoughts on shopping local?

I think it’s so important to shop local because small businesses need our support in order to survive and thrive and create joyful products and experiences for people.  

4. Favourite things to do/see in Donegal?

There are too many to mention as we are spoilt with beauty here in Donegal but I went on a tour of Inishowen recently and did the ‘Wild Alpaca Way’ where we walked alpacas on top of a hill, looking down on the ‘Five Fingers Strand’ and it was so much fun!

5.how often are you making/creating?

Making and creating is my passion and I’m so lucky to able to make and create 5 days a week in my wee workshop in Ramelton. I don’t get inspired everyday mind you, but when I’m in flow and designing a product that I’m really happy with, it’s the best feeling in the world!