Olann
Based in Cavan, Olann was born out of a desire to create a range of sophisticated colours on ethically sourced yarns.
Challenge
The process of producing quality hand-dyed yarns is never rushed, but rather slowly developed to be highly desirable, inspiring and harmonious. Made with love by knitters, the luxury wool sells internationally in London, Paris and New York. We need to create branding and packaging that captured the essence of the brand.
Approach
We visited their workshop in Cavan and worked together with the owners to create their new branding. We clarified their vision and highlighted what was unique about their story. Small is good, individual is good.
Olann inspiration is taken from their surroundings in rural Ireland. Our creative approach was also inspired by this beautiful rich landscape and their colourful wool dyeing process.
We collaborated with illustrator, Tom Abbiss Smith, to create a series of digital collages inspired by nature and the yarn making process. Photographer Matthew Thompson also filmed a short film at their studio in Cavan. The film can be viewed here.
Together these elements created a dynamic brand identity built around the needs of the client that was flexible and contemporary. We produced a range of packaging labels, a promotional booklet and marketing materials.
Services
Branding, packaging, design for print, animation.
Value
“As a startup, we needed a design company to capture and visualise our brand’s DNA. Red&Grey not only brought a fresh re-design to our company but also helped reorient how we can best communicate our brand to others. Their process is collaborative and user-driven in nature. They delivered a professional service within the agreed budget and timeframe. They were outstanding in their creative delivery and went well beyond our initial brief and expectations.”
Jess Kavanagh, Olann
The business made it through to Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur final in 2018, placed second runner up. Olann exports 99% of their hand-dyed yarns around the world and has grown to its’ staff of seven employees. They are in the process of moving to a new larger studio to help with the demand.
Collaborators
Illustration by Tom Abbiss Smith
Film and photography by Matthew Thompson