‘We want to create a special brush that we ourselves would genuinely want to use.’

It was with this in mind that we began creating our own original brushes.

It has been about three years since the idea was first conceived.

After repeated prototyping and refinement, we have finally perfected the brush of our dreams.

[UNION WORKS × ABBEY HORN] Original Shoe Brushes

This time, we have prepared two types of brushes for different purposes.

One is a horsehair brush used for everyday dusting and finishing touches.

The other is a boar-bristle brush, used to work the shoe polish into the leather and give it a shine.

We commissioned a Japanese brush manufacturer to produce the brush components.

From the type and length of the bristles, to the density of the bristles, and even the shape of the handle, which determines how it feels in the hand when held.

We had numerous samples produced in various specifications, which our staff then tested whilst actually using them.

We checked factors such as how easy the brush was to use, how well it transferred force and how the bristles felt against the skin, and made repeated improvements whilst taking on board the views of each member of staff.

Furthermore, we have deliberately left the brush handles unpainted, keeping them in their natural wood finish.

The more you use it, the more the natural oils from your hands blend into the leather, gradually enhancing its colour and lustre.

I hope you’ll enjoy the process of ‘nurturing’ the brush itself, just as you would a pair of shoes.

And so, the finished brushes were then sent across the sea to the UK.

We commissioned the top from ‘ABBEYHORN’, a long-established hornware manufacturer founded in 1749.

With a workshop based in Lancashire, England, the company continues to manufacture a variety of horn products, including shoehorns and combs, using traditional techniques.

Cutting natural antlers

Shaped by applying heat and

Polish it carefully.

The products created using manufacturing techniques honed over a long history are practical items that nevertheless possess the beauty of works of art.

From deep black to translucent amber and milky white, blending together in complex marbled patterns.

As they are made from natural materials, each one has its own unique character.

A Japanese brush manufacturer and a British horn craftsman.

By combining these various techniques, we have finally completed this original brush.

This piece combines the ease of use we strive for with the unique beauty of natural materials, as well as the joy of ownership.

I believe we have created a tool that will make the daily ritual of shoe care more enjoyable than ever before.

[UNION WORKS × ABBEY HORN] Shoe Brush

Type: Horsehair / Pig Bristle

Price: ¥33,000 (¥30,000 + tax)

From the release date, Sunday 1 November, until Sunday 8 November, we will be consolidating our entire stock at the Aoyama branch for sale.

The colour and pattern of natural antlers vary considerably from one piece to another.

Their appearance varies greatly: some are subdued with a black base, others are bright and translucent, whilst others feature intricate patterns.

This is an opportunity for you to browse our wide selection, try them out for yourself and choose the one that suits you best.

Please do take this opportunity to visit our Aoyama branch.

From Saturday 14 November, the product will be available in-store and via our online shop.

When making a purchase via our online shop, please specify any colour or pattern preferences—such as a black base or a marbled pattern—in the comments section.

Whilst subject to stock availability, we will do our best to provide you with an item that meets your requirements.

This is a brush that we have spent a long time developing, and we are confident in recommending it.

In my next blog post, I’ll be discussing hair types and lengths, hair transplant density, pattern shapes, and so on,
I’d like to take a closer look at the attention to detail that has gone into this brush.

Please do take a look at that as well.

Thank you very much.

Shin