Built on my experiences as a veteran.
8.5% of net sales donated yearly.
Benefit from free shipping
Built on my experiences as a veteran.
8.5% of net sales donated yearly.
Benefit from free shipping
Our Story — Meet the Maker
Our Story — Meet the Maker
"The Black Dog has stolen the mass of confidence I used to have, so I am hoping this adventure will help me to connect with people again and inspire those of you out there also having your own battle — it is one that may never be won, but it certainly can be helped."
— Clare, Founder
The Black Dog
The Crafty Black Dog was born from my own battle with the Black Dog. If you're not familiar with the term, the "black dog" is most commonly used to describe depression — something I had unknowingly been battling for over 20 years.
It wasn't until I became a mother, and could no longer escape through travelling and the things I used to do, that everything started to unravel. Asking for help was the hardest thing I've ever had to do — but it changed everything.
Where It All Began
In 2019, I found myself at Combat Stress in Surrey — a place where Military Veterans like myself can go to get help for mental health matters. It was there that I discovered Art Therapy (I hated art at school!) and fell in love with making things in the OT room.
I started by making Remembrance Day crafts, which quickly grew into Military Insignia pieces. What began as a few illuminated bottles has grown into a store full of handcrafted, meaningful gifts — and a house that is never tidy!
From Hobby to Award-Winning Business
During the first lockdown in 2020, I took the plunge and started selling online. I also applied for a Ministry of Defence Licence to legally use Military Insignia in my designs — and I couldn't have been happier when it was granted.
Since leaving the Military, I had struggled significantly to hold down a job because of my mental health. But The Crafty Black Dog has become so successful that it is now my full-time job — and I get to work from my very own shop. I am now a double award-winning business owner, something I never imagined possible.
I owe a huge amount of gratitude to Combat Stress. Without their help, I certainly wouldn't be where I am today.
Why It Matters
Every piece I create carries a piece of this story. When you buy from The Crafty Black Dog, you're not just getting a beautifully handcrafted military gift — you're supporting a veteran-owned, MOD Licensed business built on resilience, creativity, and hope.
I hope you like my designs and enjoy browsing my shop.
Clare x
🎖️ MOD Licensed Seller | 🏆 Double Award-Winning Business | 🎨 Handcrafted by a Military Veteran