My last event before Christmas is Hereford Arts Market, in High Town on Saturday 10th December. The markets have become very popular and show some fantastic work of mainly local local artists – which is brilliant because Herefordshire has a wealth of talent. I do believe the “buy local” idea is also very strong in this area. I certainly enjoy customers returning time after time.
I show past collection pieces, samples made during teaching sessions and samples made in preparation for new work. All at around half price, if not more. Hence, I have many customers arriving at 9am prompt to see what’s for sale! Last time I added some of the items to my blog and had lots of interest, so as a little Christmas treat I have added a small “sale items” selection to my online store!

Necklace
With my last show completed, my work for the coming weeks is to complete current orders and commissions, and keep track of sales and orders from Dazzle Manchester and Roger Billcliffe Gallery. All orders through my online jewellery shop will usually be dispatched the next working day if I have the piece in stock. Jewellery made to order can take a little longer. If you have any queries, please feel free to get in touch.
Last orders for Christmas will be around the second week of December; I will confirm the date closer to the deadline.
I do have one last Arts Market in Hereford High Town on Saturday 10th December – perfect timing for last minute Christmas gifts!
Here are some of my most popular pieces of jewellery:
A popular silver and diamond necklace that I hold in stock. The small bright diamond gives a good sparkle, and adds a little something special. The pendant hangs from a silver necklet that is flexible so sits against the neck, like a chain – but retains the lovely curve. The most popular chain length is 18″ long.
This is an other popular silver and gold ring that is comfortable for everyday wear – and mixing silver and gold means it can be worn with either gold or silver jewellery! This is something ladies often tell me is very useful.
If you prefer the two bands to be silver, with just the little loop gold, take a look at this alternative silver and gold ring.
Going to the studio on a dark grey damp morning might seem like a chore to some people, but not for me. I love the silhouette of the trees and horizon against the grey sky. The contrast creates simple clean lines. It has inspired me to return to the sketch book, with fine pens and a wash of grey…

Horizon

Branch

Flower heads

Leaf
On Saturday 29th October Ben and Natasha joined me in the jewellery making studio to make their wedding rings. Although they had no previous experience of working in metal, they both made wonderful rings. They made each others, with Natasha making a 6mm 9k white gold band whilst Ben made a 2mm palladium band. It was really enjoyable day and over lunch we could compare chicken keeping experiences; so I learnt new things too!
Here are some images form their day:

9k white gold and palladium wire.

Using pliers to shape the metal into a ring shape.

Trying the rings to get the right size.

Made to the right size, and marked ready to cut with the piercing saw.

Adding solder to the ring.

Hammering the ring to make it round.

Filing and buffing the rings to remove any marks.

Filing and buffing the rings to remove any marks.

The finished rings, the palladium is polished while the white gold is matt.
Find out more about making your own wedding rings.

18k gold, silver and aquamarine ring
With my first Autumn show at Goldsmiths’ Fair over it actually feels like Autumn is here. I had a great show meeting existing customers while making many new ones too.
Back in my jewellery studio I am following up orders, while preparing for other exhibitions starting soon, including Hereford Contemporary Craft Fair. This is my local fair, and is presented very well showing a wide range of craft and jewellery from makers locally and nationally. It is open from 11th-16th November. If you would like an invite please get in touch.
Coming soon… Dazzle Manchester and Roger Billcliffe Gallery.