Meet Erin Simons

Broom corn (both dyed and natural): Broomcorn (Sorghum vulgare) is not actually corn, but is instead related to the sorghums used for grain and syrup (Sorghum bicolor). Broomcorn has a coarse, fibrous seed head that has been used to make various types of brooms and brushes for several hundred years.  Every part of the broom corn is used, and nothing is wasted.  Broomcorn is the best fiber for broom making due to its natural ability to catch and hold dust with its wavy tips.

Tampico: Comes from the agave lechugilla plant, unique to northern Mexico and grows in high altitude deserts.  It is flexigle enough to be bent in half and has a softer feel.  This fiber is perfect for brushes.

Nylon Synthetic Twine: I mostly use synthetic twine for it's pliability, range of colors, and strength.

Maine Thread Co. Twisted Waxed Cord: This is another way to connect and support small businesses.  Maine Thread twisted waxed cord has exceptional strength and durability. This cord is made of 100% polyester high-tenacity yarn and is constructed with a right or “S” twist. This waxed cord is used to give a more "authentic" and natural look to the brooms and whisks.

Gnarled and Inconsistent Hardwood Handles: These handles vary in size, shape, and type of wood, but they are all harvested by me in the woods behind the studio.  Most of the wood sourced is from the many Laurel that surround the property.

Found Objects and Discarded Treasures: Croquet Sticks, Canes, Deer Antlers, Golf Clubs, Musical Instruments, you name it, if it can be made into a broom handle, I am probably saving it and scheming ideas for how to attach broom corn to it.

Sanded and Turned Hardwood Handles: These handles are 42" long and 1/18" diameter sourced from Caddy Supply Company.  These are used on the full sized sweepers and small hearth brooms. The reason I choose to use these on these particular brooms is simply for the functionality.  If you are going to use it everyday, frankly you don't want something that bark and lichen is falling off of.

Leather: Most of the leather that I use is cowhide sourced from upholstery companies getting rid of scraps.  This is just another way to repurpose and use something that otherwise would be discarded.

Upholstery nails and Small nail tacks: Small nail tacks are used when making either full sized sweepers or small hearth brooms.  The upholstery nails are used when tacking down leather and other flat materials to hold them in place.

There really isn't a complete answer for this.  In all honesty, it changes because each broom takes on a life and personality of its own.  But simply the length of time it takes to complete a broom depends on its size and complexity.

My mentor always laughs at this question and says, "It does if you do."  

My brooms are 100% functional and meant to be used.

Yes, Laurel Ridge Studios is available for commission work. Erin will work closely with you to bring your vision to life.

Barring there are no cat or dog incidents (I have heard of dogs chewing brooms and cats using them as scratching posts)...With everyday use and proper care, your whisk and sweepers should last for many years to come. 

I have a hearth broom that my grandmother purchased when my father was born and she used it daily up until her passing.  (When she passed my father was 62). Other than the bristles being bent from being stored on it's bristles, it still sweeps.

Be sure to store your brooms upside down or hang them so that the bristles do not bend.

Broom corn is a natural fiber, therefore always keep your broom dry; if the broom does get wet, make sure to hang it in a place with good air flow to allow it to dry.

Occasionally you may want to oil your sweeper handle.  You can use linseed or tung oil.

In some cases, your broom may need a little trim.  I am happy to assist you in this process when or if the time comes.

What you are buying in a store is commercially made on a machine and is carelessly mass-produced and many times made with unsustainable materials.

My products are personally hand crafted by me from start to finish with a non-electric process.  Most of the materials are natural and each item has its own unique qualities and nuances.  I take pride in my work and try my best to make sure that it is a quality tool that can be used for many years to come. When you purchase from me you are getting an heirloom quality, functional piece of artwork for your home.