'Buffer Girls' T-Shirt - John Pedder
Product details
– 100% Organic Cotton
– Style: Regular fit
– Colour: White
– Designed by John Pedder
‘Buffer Girls’ is a mashup between the mighty Sheffield Forgemasters steelworks and the equally mighty buffer girls who had a fearsome reputation if a man were to dare wander into their workshops. The cutlery feet are a frankly obvious nod to their skill in buffing up knives and forks to a glassy shine*
*Note from John: Apparently the cutlery feet are inaccurate as they buffed spoons and not sharp knives and forks. But as I’ve said many times before as I wave my artistic licence about my head, spoons would have looked crap!
About the artist
Woodcut printmaking slows me down and allows me to put great industry into the simplest mark. It also offers the magic of happenstance and unpredictability which allows no end of inspiration and frustration, but mainly inspiration. I made a conscious decision to fully embrace two dimensions so my work is right on the surface of the paper. I make no apologies for being the polar opposite of the ‘Star Wars’ special effects team but I don’t believe that my design rigor is any less sophisticated; I create restriction to search for creativity. You should try it, restriction is actually very liberating!
Why Printed by Us
We are Printed by Us – an Archer Project Initiative.
We employ people who have overcome homelessness and other adversities.
We run screen printing workshops, teaching new skills, as the people we work with move towards more fulfilling lives.
We collaborate with some of Sheffield’s finest artists to create unique designs.
We print artwork and garments
We sell what we produce.
We reinvest the profit.
We run more workshops.
We support more people.
Size guide

Printing Positive Change
This garment was hand printed by a vulnerable adult in recovery from homelessness and other adversities. They are paid the Real Living Wage and every penny from this product goes back into growing Printed by Us.
Organic cotton
This item is made from organic cotton grown on a GOTS certified organic cotton farm in India without use of harmful chemicals and pesticides, using less water. It's kinder to people and planet.
Ethically-made
This garment was hand made in a factory powered by green renewable energy in a Fair Wear Foundation approved factory in India.
Certified by the best
Our supply chain is certified by various independent bodies. Each of these certifications demonstrate that we are working towards building healthy environmental practices and greater respect for the planet.