Meticulous Ink, a beloved stationery shop in Bath, has announced a fundraising campaign to secure a new permanent location after facing a significant rent increase.
Having served the Walcot Street community for over 11 years, the shop aims to raise £40,000 within the next 17 days to find what owner Athena Cauley-Yu calls their ‘forever home.’
Athena opened Meticulous Ink in 2010 on a tight budget, relying on second-hand furniture and the support of friends and family. Since then, the business has weathered numerous challenges, including relocating premises, taking full ownership, and enduring pandemic lockdowns. Despite rising costs, Meticulous Ink has thrived.
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Now, with rent hikes threatening the future of the studio, Athena is optimistic about a rare and exciting opportunity to move to a ‘top secret’ Bath location. This new space will offer stability, room to grow, and the unique chance for customers to watch the vintage 1960s presses working directly behind the counter.
Although the precise location remains under wraps, Athena promises it will remain within Bath. To support the move, Meticulous Ink offers a variety of creative rewards for donors. Contributions of £10 or more allow supporters to have their names beautifully calligraphed and permanently displayed in the new studio through the ‘Meticulous Ink Spot’ reward.
For those feeling more generous, donations of £500 or more can name one of the antique printing presses—or even the brand-new water closet—and enjoy a personal printing experience session.
Most rewards will be distributed once the new premises are secured between April and July next year. At the time of writing, the fundraiser has already garnered over £13,000 from 200 supporters.
Meticulous Ink continues to welcome visitors at 134 Walcot Street, open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm. Supporters can also contribute to the fundraiser online and help ensure Meticulous Ink’s legacy endures for decades to come.