Today

What a perfect afternoon I had. It was at last nice enough to sit in my garden and do some work outdoors. I have all my jewellery making paraphenalia set up on a beading tray on a small table (to ensure I don't lose anything! I had to repair a fabulous necklace made of beautiful jade and a stunning handmade silver flower. I then strung some peachy freshwater pearls for a client who requested an 18 inch string which is her preferred length. This person has purchased pearls from me before - she is a bit of a pearl addict just like myself. The sun was shining, there was a slight breeze and I could hear the seagulls in the distance. At last I feel as if it is summer.

However, this was quite fleeting as later on the dark clouds came over and I was forced to complete my work indoors. As I look out it is quite sunny again. A perfect evening for a walk along the beach and why not?

Monogrammed shoe in Swarovski Siam

Monogrammed shoe in Swarovski Siam
Originally uploaded by sheilakerr

I enjoyed this commission and added two cursive 'J' to these converse shoes. I can do this on any shoe you desire!

Flickr

This is a test post from , a fancy photo sharing thing.

New Commission

It's so wonderful when I am asked to create wedding jewellery. So I am busy designing and making a new commission. This is for the bride, bridesmaid and flowergirl. The theme is light gold and sage green and three hair accessories are required.

I met with my client in their own home and I like to take time to get a 'feel' for the whole wedding theme. I discussed all details to ensure that I have all requirements noted. I have been busy sketching out the design and calculating stones/crystals required which I will order in today.

Need to go as I have an appoinment - will update when I get a minute - so busy!

What a week!

Last week I was informed by Insight Magazine of Birmingham that I was awarded Jewellery Designer of the year! As if that wasn't enough excitement - I was phoned last Friday to discover that I was also award the Insight Business Woman of the year! Wow - how much excitement can a girl take?

Apparently it was noted that I seem to offer such a wide range of services to my customers. I design and make jewellery but also teach jewellery making as well as one to one workshops.

It is so great to have acknowledgement from a magazine from Birmingham! I have had a photoshoot of my jewellery being worn by models and will have copyright to use these images which is great.

I have contacted local papers as well as some national papers - the Ayrshire Post is definitely interested and I will have an article in the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce magazine 'Your Business'.

Will update as this progresses. Certainly keeping busy with all the excitement!

Dumfries House, near Cumnock, Ayrshire

What a great day in Ayrshire! Clear blue sky, very sunny and a very slight breeze - perfect! Went to Dumfries House which was the home of the Grand Steward of Scotland, Marquis of Bute.

We didn't go inside as there was a visiting party but managed to stroll around the gardens. We will definitely go back for a visit inside. Did a touristy visit round Cumnock and went to the Baird Institute (museum). Really interesting - there was a clock made and designed by William Crawford of Cumnock (my Dad's name) may be a connection perhaps?

Came back and sat in the garden enjoying the last rays of sun.

Perfect . . .

Will post some pics later . . .

Saturday morning workshops

Due to a request from one of my students in my Monday night class I am now offering a programme of Saturday morning workshops. These will be 2 hours long and will offer a project which can be completed on the day. All tuition, tools and components will be included for my first workshop: Saturday 19 June, 2010 - make your own Brooch!

My numbers are on the increase so it will definitely run!

More to follow . . . watch this space Coming soon . . . Tiara Making Workshops


Sheila