This week has been one of those classic behind‑the‑scenes weeks in my handcrafted jewellery studio — full of making, some remaking, photographing (attempting to!), and planning ahead for some very exciting makers markets.
Bespoke Earrings: Progress… and a Plot Twist
I’ve been working on a customer’s commission for a bespoke pair of handmade silver earrings. These earrings involve lots of careful piercing to create the shape, followed by meticulous filing to refine every curve. Everything was going perfectly… until the finishing touches. Nightmare moment: one earring split.
There was no saving it, so it’s back to the bench to remake one of them properly. This is part of the reality of handcrafted jewellery made in the UK, where quality always comes first. Photos will follow once the customer has received their commission.
Catching Up on Handmade Jewellery Orders
Alongside commissions, I’ve been busy fulfilling orders from last weekend’s craft markets. There’s something special about packaging up one‑of‑a‑kind handmade jewellery, knowing each piece has been chosen with care.
New Jewellery Website: Crafting vs Photography
A big chunk of my week has gone into adding products and content to my new jewellery website. Photographing jewellery, writing product descriptions, uploading, checking, editing… and repeating. It honestly takes as much time as making the jewellery itself.
I’ll admit it — I’m much better at handcrafting jewellery than photography, but it’s all part of running a small independent jewellery business.
Makers Markets & Events Booked Ahead
I’ve also been confirming handmade jewellery market bookings. I’m now booked for two large makers markets in November (yes, November… in April!) and I’ll also be heading to London makers events later in the year.
Designing New Jewellery Pieces
If time allows on Thursday, I’m hoping to work on new jewellery designs, including personalised zodiac charm jewellery and pieces created by recycling silver scraps into unique handmade items.
Friday: Preparing for Simply Vibrant Makers Market
Friday will be all about prepping and packing for the Simply Vibrant Makers Market at The Bluecoat in Liverpool. If you’re looking for handmade art and crafts in Liverpool, including my handcrafted jewellery, it’s a brilliant venue and I’d love to see you there.