I have begun working on the Beach Glass line for Spring & Summer here @ Part Crow Studio. Today was a perfect day to work with something beachy.

1. I put a lot of thought and work into designing and making my products. This may seem obvious, but when you ask me “How long does it take you to make one necklace/ pair of earrings/ bracelet?” the answer (if I answered the way I would like to) might be something like this: “Well, I studied/experimented for six years, then invested in setting up a studio and paying for raw materials, and for each new product I spend months developing and testing new designs, eventually settling on a prototype that I will spend countless hours making, often in batches rather than one at a time. I am constantly developing new products while I continue to produce my bestsellers. How long did it take me to make this necklace/pair of earrings/ bracelet? Ten years.”
I know, of course, that many people are curious about my processes, I am happy to tell you about how I work and where my ideas come from. I am very glad that you’re interested. But if you are trying to judge the value of an object by the amount of time it takes to make a single one, then you are missing the point of buying handmade.
2. It’s not cheap, but it’s worth it. When you factor in the costs of materials and the time and effort it takes for me to develop and make my products, it’s no wonder they cost more than many factory-made products. But direct comparison doesn’t make sense – poor quality inputs, exploited workers and overseas shipping cost us in different ways. Most of us need to spend our money carefully, but if you can afford to have even a few handmade products , I think you’ll agree they’re well worth it. When you factor in the value of high quality materials and workmanship and thoughtful design, these products are likely to last you for many years and bring you more joy, giving you great value for your money.
3. Sometimes it hurts. I and many of my maker friends are hard at work right now finishing up production for gifting, galleries and shops. It’s not a hobby; making 200 pieces of jewelry is a lot harder than making one! And all of this repetitive work can take a physical toll. It’s an amazing feeling to use your own hands to bring your designs to life, but it can also hurt. Backs, arms, hands and wrists, my most valuable tools, suffer when I work too hard. But during the holiday season when I need to maximize our sales, it’s hard to slow down. My products are created from a mingling of thought, creativity, and physical labour, and I want you to know that I put a lot of effort into making them special.
4. I love my customers. But you really need to know it: when you buy my work, visit me at Part Crow Studio, follow my progress online, and share your enthusiasm with your friends, you are helping the handmade economy to thrive. That means the world to me (as well as my suppliers, contractors, retail stores and sales staff). You are not only helping makers support their families, you are also helping to support a way of life that is holistic, environmentally conscious, and connected. Knowing who made your things is a pretty special feeling, but knowing who’s wearing and enjoying my creations is pretty special too.
5. Makers are trying to make the world a better place, just like you. I want to live in a world where workers aren’t exploited, a good life is affordable, and everyone has a chance to thrive. I know I am lucky to be able to make a living in this way, despite the challenges.