Tinned Goods - A Love Letter to Craft, Culture & the Everyday
At Block Design, we search for inspiration in the everyday. The Tinned Goods collection was designed in that very way. This collection is a celebration of travel, tradition, and timeless design.
The idea for Tinned Goods was born from a designer’s visit to Portugal, where the shelves of sardine tins in a Lisbon delicatessen sparked a new creative journey for Block Design.
Inspired by the bold graphics, rich cultural references, and thoughtful craftsmanship we encountered, we wanted each product in this collection to tell a story - of artistry, of place, and of the joy found in small, beautiful things.
(right image: Photography by Jessica Teixeria from Unsplash)
Inspired by the Charm of the Past
The collection draws inspiration from two worlds we love: the vintage aesthetic of American tobacconists, filled with curated treasures and curious finds, and the vibrant packaging of European delicatessens, where even the most everyday items feel special.
The artwork for each tin pays homage to iconic art movements and modern masters, making these pieces as much about design as they are about utility.
From Studio to Shelf: Discover the Story Behind the Scenes
Every item in the Tinned Goods collection tells a story of collaboration. From the first design sketches to the final finishing touches, each piece has been shaped by many hands, all sharing the same passion for thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship.
This collection is the result of a true team effort. From hand-selecting each gift, to designing every tin, to the final moment of packing them with love. The Tinned Goods collection has been and continues to be a process grounded in collaboration, creativity, and community.
The growth of this collection has even led us to expand our studio space, creating room not only for new products but for a more hands-on creative process. It's here that our much-loved tinned candles are hand-poured, bringing together sustainable production, local craftsmanship, and the carefully considered details that make Tinned Goods so special.
The Tinned Goods Collection: What’s Inside?
Lemongrass & Ginger Soy Wax Candle
Forget wine and chocolates! This zingy soy candle is the perfect thank-you gift for hosts. Designed to wind down the evening in style, the scent is fresh and mood-lifting. The bold tin design mirrors mid-century matchbox art, giving it a retro, playful feel.
Pairs well with: Our ColorLab Glassware for an after-dinner cocktail hour setup.
(left image: Photography by Donna Brown from Unsplash)
Deck of Playing Cards
A fresh take on the classic gift. These minimalist playing cards come housed in a striking tin, a clear nod to Cubism and the bold geometry of Picasso’s work. Whether for game nights or coffee tables, they’re designed to be displayed as well as played.
(left image: Image from Birmingham Museums Trust from Unsplash)
Cedarwood & Sage Incense Cones
Calming, grounding and richly scented, our incense cones come in a boldly patterned tin inspired by the work of Yayoi Kusama. Think hypnotic dots and vivid contrasts which create a visual experience to match the sensory one.
(right image: Photography by Catalina Johnson from Unsplash)
A collection that continues to grow
What began as a small collection inspired by treasured discoveries and thoughtful gifting has evolved into something much bigger. As Tinned Goods found its way into homes, gift bags, and stores around the world, we saw an opportunity to expand the collection while staying true to the playful spirit that inspired it.
The result? New formats, new products, and even more opportunities to turn everyday essentials into objects of delight. While the original collection celebrated the charm of sardine tins and vintage packaging, the next chapter of Tinned Goods explores a whole new family of iconic containers.
This time we wanted to add our own homage to the containers that hold our big British favourite - baked beans, as well as soups and all kinds of canned items all over the world. These everyday containers offered the perfect canvas for a new generation of playful, practical gifts.
Just like the original collection, each new tin combines thoughtful design with useful contents, transforming the ordinary into something worth keeping long after the gift has been opened.
A far-from-boring choice, our color-bursting design-driven bamboo fibre footie friends are available in three different options, meaning they are certain to bring a smile to the everyday essential.
Edition 1 - A zany mix of joyful colors and modernist patterns.
Edition 2- Moody blues couldn’t be further from the mind with a palette of modernist blue, green and strong orange colors.
Edition 3- An uplifting combination of beyond bright pink, red and neon green.
If you’ve got green fingers and a constant wish to nourish the earth with pretty planting, then this gardeners kit will bring a sunny smile to your lips with every use. Inside the forever reusable tin with a re-fittable lid you'll find wooden plant markers, a wooden dibber, a pair of handy garden snips and natural twine.
We’re all made up with this new addition, where we’ve added joyful color to an everyday chore with our new make-up kit which includes five color-pop make-up brushes of various sizes and one make-up sponge.
Explore the full Collection HERE! And find the perfect gift for every occasion. Designed with thought, made with care, and ready to spark curiosity and excitement.
