Our Story
From One Unique Lamp to a Decade of Handcrafted Design
Creating distinctive industrial-style pieces, handcrafted to last.
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Metal Manipulation was founded in 2015 after we created a bespoke industrial-style table lamp for a friend who wanted something completely unique. What began as a single commission quickly became a passion for designing and crafting distinctive pieces that couldn’t be found on the high street.
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That very first lamp featured a base fabricated from large steel nuts, a frame formed from solid mild steel chain, and a classic Edison filament bulb to complete its authentic industrial aesthetic. It perfectly captured the style and craftsmanship that have since become the hallmark of Metal Manipulation.
Today, we continue to design and handcraft everything from statement lighting and bespoke furniture to garden sculptures and unique gifts, with every piece made to order in our Derbyshire workshop. While our range has grown, our passion remains the same: creating exceptional, handcrafted designs that are built to be admired for years to come.
OUR STORY
Built by Hand. Designed to Stand Apart
Crafted to Stand Out
Our signature chainwork is at the heart of what makes Metal Manipulation unique. The raw, industrial character of steel chain, paired with the warm glow of an Edison-style filament bulb, creates lighting that is both striking and inviting. The overwhelmingly positive response to our earliest designs confirmed that we had created something distinctive, stylish and truly sought after.
Growing from a Small Idea
In 2016, we opened our first showroom in Tutbury, Staffordshire, giving customers the opportunity to view our growing collection of handcrafted industrial-style lamps and discuss bespoke commissions in person. Demand quickly grew, and we were soon supplying our pieces to a number of independent outlets across the Midlands.
As the business expanded, founder Leigh made the decision to leave his role as an on-site foreman for a large engineering firm and dedicate himself fully to Metal Manipulation. As a qualified fabricator, welder and blacksmith, Leigh combines traditional skills with contemporary design to create bespoke pieces that simply cannot be found off the shelf.
Sharing Our Work Across the UK
Our growing reputation led us to exhibit at craft fairs, artisan events and art exhibitions throughout the country. These events remain an important part of our journey, allowing us to meet customers face to face and showcase our latest handcrafted lighting, furniture, sculptures and gifts. Today, we typically attend around 20 carefully selected events each year, reaching people who value quality, originality and genuine craftsmanship.
Our Home at Staunton Harold
In 2018, we moved to our current home at The Ferrers Centre for Arts & Crafts, set within the beautiful grounds of Staunton Harold Hall, Leicestershire. Here you’ll find both our workshop and showroom, where every piece is designed and handcrafted before being displayed for visitors to explore. The showroom is normally open to the public Thursday to Sunday.
A Family Business
The rapid growth of Metal Manipulation soon led Becky, Leigh’s partner and now wife, to leave her career in education and join the business full-time. Together, we continue to build a family-run business founded on creativity, craftsmanship and personal service.
Our Commitment
At Metal Manipulation, we are passionate about doing things differently. We constantly refine our designs, explore new ideas and take pride in every piece we create. By using high-quality materials and paying close attention to every detail, we ensure that each handcrafted item is made to be enjoyed and admired for years to come.
