ImagesMagUK_August_2021

INDUSTRY NEWS www.images-magazine.com 14 images AUGUST 2021 Stay in the picture with our Instagram feed: @imagesmaguk When it comes to experimenting with new techniques, Chloe Wass of Boho and Bowie is always one step ahead, as can be seen with this stunning laser engraving of the classic Dr Martens boot, which has been winning rave reviews on social media. Chloe also has her feet firmly in the eco-camp, and it was her ‘green’ principles that were the main driver behind her latest project. “One of my fundamental business basics is to be earth-conscious throughout my processes,” she explains. “True sustainability comes from using what we already have, so customising a quality base product with my original designs was the starting point for this project. Dr Martens are a staple shoe in my family for practicality and durability, so this was a no brainer for me!” She recently bought a 30W Universal M-300 laser cutting and engraving system from One Touch Laser, whose support and knowledge helped get this project off the ground. “The laser has endless potential for many products and materials across my range, however working on pre-loved boots is a concept unique to myself and poses a number of questions and issues that we are working through,” Chloe says. “This project is still very much in the research and development phase; there is no material database that accounts for the range of boots and their compositions (as there is for more standard products). This means that each boot presents a unique canvas to work on and requires individual speed, power and focus settings to obtain the best results. The varied material compositions of the boots yield a different engraving, so each new type is a case of trial and error.” Each engraving can take between two and 10 minutes depending on its size, complexity and working adjustments, she reports, noting that sometimes multiple passes with the laser yields best results. “Once engraved I can alter the end product by using screen printing ink to create different coloured images, or the engraving can be left exposing the colour it has revealed; this offers a broad range of options to ensure each pair of boots has its own customisation. “The permanency of laser engraving and the general life span of a pair of Dr Martens means the consumer can be confident that this product will stand the test of time,” Chloe concludes. www.bohoandbowie.com Watch the video clip of the boots being engraved DECORATED PRODUCT OF THE MONTH Chloe of Boho and Bowie uses a laser to engrave Dr Martens PenCarrie reveals upgraded website PenCarrie has revealed its new website, which is aimed at making it quicker and easier for customers to find and order products and create marketing materials. The powerful new search function makes it quicker to find products, offering a filter for searching by criteria such as size, colour and fit. It also allows users to compare key product features and pricing side by side on the same page so they can make quick and informed decisions. In addition, the site offers inspiration for similar product suggestions to help customers find new products to add to their offering. imagesmag.uk/pencarrie-website David Luke launches campaign to extend life of school uniform David Luke School Uniform launched a campaign in July to extend the life of uniforms through recycling, repairing and swapping. It has provided retailers with marketing kits under the banner of 'Re:Uniform' which they can share with schools to highlight the value of making the most of the long lifespan of good-quality uniform. David Luke’s managing director, Kathryn Shuttleworth, said: ‘“Long Live School Uniform’ is our first circular campaign to get families wearing their sustainable school uniform for longer. Good-quality, sustainably made uniform has a brilliantly long lifespan.” The campaign follows the Education (Guidance about Cost of School Uniforms) Act 2021, which was passed in May and will mean schools have to follow statutory guidance when they apply their school uniform policies. The guidance is due to be published this autumn, and it is anticipated that as well as cost considerations, there will be an added requirement for schools to make second-hand uniform available to parents. Extending the life of uniforms is explicitly stated within the statutory guidance “to improve sustainability” and to benefit “those on low incomes”. imagesmag.uk/reuniform PenCarrie’s newwebsite launched in July