If you’ve just discovered Stray Dog Designs, welcome! We’re a brand that believes in creating handcrafted decor with heart, soul, and purpose. Each piece we make tells a story—of creativity, craftsmanship, and community. Here’s a little about who we are, what we do, and how we got here.
The Stray Dog Way
At Stray Dog Designs, we embrace the idea that every home should reflect the unique stories that live within it. That’s why all of our products are:
- Handcrafted: Made with care and precision by talented artisans in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.
- One-of-a-kind: Designed with quirky charm and inspired by nature, color, and whimsy.
- Ethically made: Built on fair wages, sustainable materials, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
When you bring a Stray Dog piece into your home, you’re not just decorating—you’re supporting a network of artisans and a process steeped in care and tradition.
Learn more here.
Our Story: From a Stray Dog to a Global Brand
It all started in the picturesque village of San Miguel de Allende, nestled in Mexico’s mountainous desert. Stray dogs roam the streets there, carving out their existence with resilience and independence. Among them, one special pup—La Princessa—changed everything.
In 1994, newlyweds Jane Gray and Billy Pritchard found themselves in San Miguel, searching for purpose. La Princessa, a quirky black mutt with floppy ears, became their first joint project. Taking care of her gave them the confidence to start something new: importing Mexican pottery.
But Jane’s creative eye and Billy’s boundless energy soon led them in a different direction. A chance encounter with a local artisan turned Jane’s whimsical sketches into real designs, and Stray Dog Designs was born.
Fast-forward to 1995, when they debuted their colorful, handcrafted pieces at the Atlanta International Gift and Home Furnishings Market. The response was electric. Decades later, Stray Dog Designs continues to create joyful, handmade decor that blends modern style with timeworn techniques.
Our Commitment to Craft and Community
Every piece we create is a labor of love. We work closely with talented artisans in San Miguel de Allende to ensure the highest standards of quality, sustainability, and ethical practices.
- Made by Hand: Each piece is carefully crafted, molded, and painted by hand using techniques passed down through generations.
- Made to Order: Nothing is mass-produced. Your next statement piece is made just for you, ensuring it fits perfectly into your space.
- Made Fair: We prioritize fair wages, employee well-being, and sustainable practices. From providing health insurance and retirement benefits to using non-toxic, zero-VOC paint, we put people and the planet first.
More Than Just Beautiful Decor
Stray Dog Designs isn’t just about products—it’s about people. From supporting artisans and their families to giving back to the local community, we aim to make a positive impact. A portion of every sale goes to Casita Linda, a nonprofit that builds homes for families in need in San Miguel.
Why We Do What We Do
We believe in the power of color, joy, and individuality to transform a house into a home. Whether it’s a bold chandelier or a quirky lamp, our designs are meant to inspire, uplift, and bring a smile to your face.
If you’re just getting to know us, we hope this gives you a glimpse into what makes Stray Dog Designs so special. Thank you for being here and for supporting handmade, heartfelt design.
Discover the Stray Dog Way: Explore Our Collections