After 11 years at Walcot Street, Bath’s beloved stationery shop Meticulous Ink faces a new challenge: a significant rent increase forces them to seek a permanent new home. To make this move possible, owner Athena Cauley-Yu has kicked off a fundraising campaign aiming to raise £40,000 within the next 17 days.
Founded in 2010 on a shoestring budget—with salvaged furniture from Gumtree and help from friends and family—Meticulous Ink has thrived despite numerous hurdles. Athena recounts surviving dramatic transitions, including relocating premises, buying out a business partner, and enduring the pandemic lockdowns. Yet, soaring costs and rent hikes now threaten the shop’s future at its current location.
The good news? Athena has uncovered a rare, “top secret” opportunity for a permanent studio space right in Bath, where Meticulous Ink can grow without the fear of future rent increases. This new space will showcase their two vintage printers from the 1960s visibly behind the counter and allow the business to flourish for decades to come.
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Though the exact location remains under wraps, supporters of the fundraiser can receive unique rewards. A donation of £10 or more earns a spot in beautiful calligraphy etched permanently in the new space. For those able to give £500 or more, there’s the extraordinary chance to name one of the antique presses— or even the new water closet—plus enjoy a personalized printing experience.
At the time of writing, the campaign has already raised over £13,000 from 200 generous supporters. Most rewards will be granted once Meticulous Ink secures its new premises between April and July next year.
Meticulous Ink remains open at 134 Walcot Street, Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm—for now. To keep this cherished Bath institution alive and thriving, visit their fundraiser online and help them ink their future.