In
2000 I started working part time on a self employed sole trader basis
(Heatherwell Designs), creating a range of accessories and beaded jewellery
which I mainly sold through local exhibitions and craft fairs in Hertfordshire.
In 2005 I opened an EBay shop selling jewellery making supplies, beads and
creative materials. This enabled me to make a career change and work full time using
my creative skills. Running my own business has been a massive learning curve
for me, a huge challenge but very fulfilling. Initially my business ran very
successfully but due to competition from increasing numbers of outlets selling
cheaper imported textiles and beadwork, and the ‘credit crunch’, my sales
dropped off and I had to take other employment. Unable to return to my
scientific career I trained as a Pharmacy Dispenser and spent four years
running a small Pharmacy in a Doctor’s surgery and as a Dispenser in Boots
Chemist.
I
have now returned to full time self employment, this time aiming for the higher
end of the market, and creating unique pieces to commission. In the near future
I will be re-opening my EBay shop (http://stores.ebay.co.uk/heatherwelljewelleryandtextiles)
selling patterns and kits to encourage others with their own creative pursuits;
including counted thread embroidery and cross stitch, picture knitting and
machine knitting punch card patterns, beadwork and jewellery making patterns,
and digital machine embroidery designs. I love to encourage and assist others
to get creative. My scientific
background and training necessitated meticulous working practices which I now apply
to my creative skills. I work to the highest standard, testing my pieces at
every stage, to ensure quality and function. There is nothing worse than
spending hard earned cash on a lovely accessory or piece of jewellery only to
find it falling apart within the first few weeks!
In May
2012 I registered on a City & Guilds course, Level 3 Certificate in
Stitched Textiles with Embroidery, something I have wanted to do a for over 20
years! I am very excited about starting this new venture alongside restarting my
business. I have just started my own blog which will be in the form of a
creative diary featuring my work and presenting my C&G studies (http://heatherwell-jewellery-and-textiles.blogspot.co.uk).
I am also rebuilding my gallery website (www.heatherwell.com)
which I hope to have live very soon. Exciting
times ahead!
