In all my years of traveling, there has only been one time when I regretted NOT buying something while I was on vacation. And it was this summer while The Girl and I were visiting Vancouver, Canada. We happened upon the Granville Island Broom Company on Granville Island and I absolutely fell in love with their handmade brooms. And I am still kicking myself for not buying one while we were there.
I have this crazy dream that one day I’ll live in a Saltbox or Colonial style home in the Northeast and it will be {minimally} filled with handmade, useful things. And well this broom, this broom would totally fit into that scenario.
“Sisters Mary and Sarah Schwieger learned to make brooms from their family while growing up in the Kootenay region of BC. The brooms are woven using Shaker methods and are designed to withstand years with regular use.”
If you’ve read this blog for any length of time then you know I strive to make my money count. I’m not into designer things, and I love finding the best deals, but there is also this side of me that totally appreciates well made handmade items. Things that were made one at a time, with great care, and by one person.
Those are the things {along with pastries} I’m willing to splurge on. Partly because I can see exactly where my money is going, and the other part being in awe of the skills involved to make a unique item.
Luckily, while we were at the shop, they were making brooms.
Handmade!
It’s where’s it’s at. If you are ever in the area, stop by and check out the handmade brooms at the Granville Island Broom Co. They are truly a work of art.
~Mavis
Granville Island Broom Company
1406 Old Bridge Street, Vancouver BC
V6H 3S6
Rosaleen says
Mavis,
You are multi-talented. Have you considered making your own broom? Check the Web for loss of info and demos.
Robyn says
Thanks for this Mavis. The brooms in stores are so crappy and I would love to get one that will really do the job and will last. I’m with you on spending more for something that is high quality.
Thelma says
You can order online! Just saying 😉
Jan Walker says
Could you post the website address for ordering these brooms? I’m tired of spending money for junk ones here!!
Thanks!
Mavis Butterfield says
Jan, in case you didn’t know, the green highlighted texts in my posts are clickable links. 🙂 Here is the link though… http://broomcompany.com/
Teri says
Sounds like a good reason for another trip up there 🙂
Shelby says
This is a wonderful shop! I got to visit it this summer while on vacation. Each item is truly unique.
Barbara Alward says
Hi Mavis,
There is a similar hand-made broom store in Roslyn, WA. Right in your own backyard :)!
Mavis Butterfield says
Do you know the name of it Barbara?
AlysonRR says
https://www.facebook.com/Skagitbroomworks/
Stephanie says
I bought a beauty of a broom from BROOMCHICK on Etsy. It works works better than the synthetic one from the store. Only cost about $45.
David Hoaglan says
Simple request, are photos available of the broom making table?