14/09/2024
Plain Bear have been selling their simple and stylish designs at Greenwich Market since 2013. When it comes to casual, colourful clothing these guys have got you covered head-to-toe. From socks to caps, tees, sweaters and beanies there’s fun and playful designs in bold and beautiful colours.
The team of screen-printers, seamstresses and designers are led by self-proclaimed maverick, Frank Whitford. Inspired by the contemporary minimalist style that he came across while studying sculpture, Frank, fresh out of university worked with the Prince’s Trust to start Plain Bear.
Their ethos is simple – less is more when it comes to design, and originality is always key. They don’t follow fads and believe that good design should be timeless. Their distinctive style has always been driven by their signature screen printing – focusing on clean lines and sharp silhouettes.
From their very first hand-crafted silk screen studio Plain Bear has been about making things from scratch, starting with a handmade exposure unit, do-it-yourself wash booth and knocked up dark room. More than ten years on and the printing process is still all done in house, from exposing the screens to printing and packing, it’s a hands on job.
“All our designs are printed on our 4 pallet, 6 screen carousel. Flashed dried, belt cured, we fold and pack with care, all by hand,” says Frank, “It is our passion to keep as much creativity as possible within our own walls.”
A few years ago Frank and the team moved their studio from Peckham, South East London, all the way up to Kelham Island in Sheffield where they are currently based. We asked Frank why despite the distance, he continues to trade at Greenwich Market.
“It’s the original location, our home roots. We held our very first stall here and haven’t looked back. We have cemented ourselves into the local hearts,” he says, “The stall itself has evolved over time, currently keeping it simple but always looking to adapt.”
You can catch the Plain Bear team every Friday-Sunday with their range of eye catching colour blends, standout designs and coordinating accessories.
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