Craft, history & sustainability since 2004
Our Story
Nordlys Viking was born from a love of Nordic craft and a belief that handmade things matter. Since our founding in 2004, we have travelled to historical markets and events across Europe, met artisans, learned traditional techniques and built relationships that endure to this day.
Over the years we have grown from a small company on Europe's historical markets into a modern Nordic lifestyle brand. We design and create both historical replicas based on archaeological finds and our own Nordic-inspired products — always with craftsmanship at the heart.
Nordlys is family-owned and run by Tone and Elias. We share a passion for design, craft and sustainability. Fair trade practices and good working conditions for our artisans are non-negotiable — they are a cornerstone of everything we do. We believe that traditional craftsmanship should be accessible to everyone, and that every product you hold in your hand should tell a story.
Several ships sail under the Nordlys flag. Beyond designing and selling, we collaborate with museums, recreate historical artefacts and take on exciting projects every year. We're having a blast and hope you'll join us on the voyage.
Tone
Tone was born in Tønsberg, Norway, and spent her teenage years there. In her final year of secondary school she moved to Bergen, and after that she lived for a time in Berlin before coming to Sweden.
From an early age she developed a strong interest in design, architecture and craftsmanship — perhaps a natural result of growing up in a creative family full of art lovers. Travels across Europe and the wider world broadened her horizons early on and filled her with impressions and inspiration. It all culminated in a bachelor's degree in Industrial Design from Lund University in 2022, after Tone had already been working with design through Nordlys for several years.
She has a special fondness for textile art and began weaving at an early age. But all forms of art and craft, preferably combined with personal expression, are close to her heart. Her style is often colourful and dynamic.
Above all, Tone wants to reach people and improve their everyday lives through design. Creating objects that evoke an emotional bond — things you want to use and care for over time — that is her driving force.
Elias
Elias grew up in Västerås, Sweden, and on the island of Bornholm in Denmark. His family's deep love of nature, fishing and animal husbandry shaped him early on and gave him a big heart for all living things. Being in contact with nature is still essential for inspiration and recovery.
During his childhood, his uncle and aunt travelled to Asia on long winter journeys. They brought back jewellery, textiles and handicrafts that were sold at markets during the summer. The stories and the exotic scents and colours sparked a sense of adventure from a young age.
As a teenager, live-action role-playing was big in his circle of friends, but there were virtually no sellers of costume accessories and equipment. With his creativity and craftsmanship, Elias began making everything from latex masks to full costumes. The other teenagers wanted his creations, and so he started selling his craft — just 16 years old.
Over time, his knowledge grew along with his passion for historical craftsmanship and the Nordic cultural heritage. A sense of form that has inspired the world for over a thousand years. Elias' empathy for other people, animals and nature has always shaped his choices in life. Valuing and supporting craftsmanship — making it possible for people to carry on a living tradition of handcraft — is a cause close to his heart.
Living History
Museum & Special Projects
One part of Nordlys we are especially proud of is our work with museums and historical projects. We collaborate with several museums and institutions to recreate historical artefacts based on archaeological finds — Viking-age jewellery, textiles and costume details brought back to life through traditional craftsmanship.
Through our extensive network of historical artisans, we take on special commissions and unique projects. Every reconstruction is carried out with respect for the original — the right materials, the right techniques and a deep understanding of the historical context.
These projects give us not only a unique expertise but also a deeper connection to the cultural heritage that permeates everything we do. The knowledge and experience from our museum work flows back into the rest of our collection and makes every product a little more considered.
Welcome to Explore
Want to see what we create? Browse our collection of handcrafted products. Curious about how we work with sustainability? Read more on Sustainability. Or take a look at our Production & Materials to learn more about our materials and craft methods.
Have questions or want to discuss a special project? Contact us — we'd love to hear from you!
Tone & Elias