Back in 2018, there was nothing quite like Wild Tree Tools in the sensory play space. In truth, there was nothing like what I had created. In that first year, I didn’t even have the language for it. I called them scoops and spoons, because I didn’t yet know what they would become or how much they would grow. It took time to land on the word tools, but that’s exactly what they were.

At the time, we were deeply rooted in a nature play philosophy. Through a fair trade meeting, I was introduced to a contact who returned from touring fair trade projects in Vietnam she wanted to show me crocheted toys and I could take my eye off the homewares. The moment I saw those pieces, I knew they belonged in play. In mud kitchens, in small hands, in real nature rich sensory environments.

We became the first shop to bring these into the play space in Australia, building an entire product line around their potential. And then eventually taking over the production relationship.

Wild Tree Tools came to life in three parts. It began with an original fair trade collection designed as part of an artisan fair trade project. Those pieces are the foundation of the range. From there, I went on to design my own custom ranges through the same partnership, expanding the collection over time.

One of the most significant designs is the Branch Spoon. The shape holds real meaning it was my first custom piece. At the time, a “twig” spoon was popular. It was tall and slender, but it didn’t meet the needs of the younger children. I needed something more grounded and robust, something my own child could use with ease. Starting from a similar form, we refined it. Shorter, broader, more solid in the hand. Something softer and sturdier for a toddler grip. The name “Branch” came from that contrast. The elegance of a twig beside the strength of a branch, two pieces sitting side by side, each with their own place in play.

Since 2018, the range has grown into an extensive collection of spoons, strainers, cups, bowls, and dishes. Every piece is made through the same production partnership, supporting the same regional artisans now for nearly eight years.

This is a collection I’m deeply proud of. It was the first of its kind in the sensory play space, and it remains a unique and intentional offering for children’s play.