Split, Splice – Crowdfunding for the Tim Stead Steading

Client
Tim Stead Trust
Services
Digital Marketing, Social Media, PR
Celebrating Tim Stead: A Visionary Sculptor, Furniture Maker, and Environmental Advocate
Tim Stead, a renowned British sculptor and master furniture maker, is celebrated for his exceptional woodworking skills and commitment to sustainability. His artistry is most prominently showcased in his extraordinary home, The Steading, located in Blainslie, in the heart of the Scottish Borders. This unique and awe-inspiring property is a testament to Tim’s craftsmanship, creativity, and environmental philosophy. Tragically, Tim passed away from leukaemia in 2000 at just 48 years old. Despite his short life, he left a legacy that inspires generations in art, design, and eco-conscious living.
The Tim Stead Trust was established in 2015 to honour Tim Stead’s enduring contributions. The Trust’s mission is to preserve Tim’s legacy, protect The Steading for future generations, and promote his sustainable ethos. By 2020, the Trust faced a critical need to raise £19,500 to secure The Steading, which remained in the care of Maggy Stead, Tim’s widow. To achieve this, the Trust turned to its community and launched a crowdfunding campaign, calling on supporters to help safeguard this invaluable part of Scotland’s artistic heritage.

Copyright Tim Stead Trust
Crowdfunding Campaign for The Tim Stead Trust
On January 12, 2021, The Tim Stead Trust launched its crowdfunding campaign until February 14, 2021. Despite a modest budget, the campaign successfully leveraged a multi-channel digital marketing strategy to engage supporters and achieve its ambitious funding goals. The campaign’s key activities included:
E-Newsletters
Regular updates were sent to the Trust’s email database, informing supporters of progress and encouraging contributions. This direct communication helped maintain momentum throughout the campaign.
Facebook Marketing
Social media was a cornerstone of the campaign, with the Trust’s Facebook page updated 2–3 times daily. Posts featured compelling stories, highlighted fundraising milestones, and shared press coverage, effectively driving engagement and donations.
Press and PR Campaign
A targeted press and PR strategy helped the campaign gain widespread media coverage. Press releases and direct communication with journalists resulted in features across major outlets, including:
- BBC News
- The Herald
- The Scotsman
- The Times
- Southern Reporter
- ITV Borders
- Border Life (a dedicated program).
Results: Exceeding Expectations
The crowdfunding campaign surpassed its initial goal of £19,500 within six days. By the campaign’s conclusion on Valentine’s Day 2021, an incredible £36,210 had been raised from 439 supporters over 35 days. These funds secured The Steading and enabled the Trust to begin essential repairs, ensuring this iconic property remains a beacon of Tim’s vision and philosophy.
The Power of Digital Marketing
The campaign’s success hinged on a well-executed digital marketing strategy, with Facebook being the most impactful channel for audience engagement. Complementary efforts, such as regular e-newsletters and widespread press coverage, amplified the campaign’s reach and inspired generous contributions. This multi-faceted approach ensured the Trust exceeded its fundraising goals while building a stronger connection with supporters.
Testimonial: The Expertise Behind the Campaign
Sandy Hellowell from The Tim Stead Trust shared their gratitude:
“We were so close to achieving our funding goal and needed the expertise of someone who truly understood digital marketing. Fiona immediately set to work on the social media campaign, engaging supporters and maintaining regular communication. She also leveraged her network to secure press coverage and media interviews. Fiona’s dedication, enthusiasm, and strategic approach motivated us and lifted the burden on us as trustees. Thank you, Fiona.”
Why Tim Stead’s Legacy Matters
Tim Stead’s work is a timeless fusion of artistic vision and environmental consciousness. His home and workshop, The Steading, are living museums of his craft, offering inspiration to all who visit. His designs emphasise the beauty of natural materials and highlight the importance of sustainable practices in art and design.
Thanks to the success of this crowdfunding campaign, Tim’s legacy will continue to thrive, encouraging future generations to embrace sustainability, creativity, and a deep connection to the natural world.
Visit the Tim Stead Trust’s official website for more information about Tim Stead, his philosophy, and the Trust’s ongoing efforts.