Gummy Bears get the beady treatment ...

I've had this ring for years. Bought it on a trip to New York. It's getting a bit jaded now but I still wear it and still love it. So much so that it has provided the inspiration for a new ring. I wanted to see how many different ways I could use my Gummy Bear beads so I tried this ...

Here's a close-up of my test piece ...

For a first attempt at beading I'm pretty chuffed, though it does need some refining. I may try doing a simple beaded ring and then weave the Gummy Bear bead in over the top and see how that works.

I have to wear my nails stupidly short because I'm such an oaf that when i'm working with clay, if my nails aren't short I keep stabbing my work and leaving nail marks. doh!

On another note, I went to the cinema to see the Time Travellers Wife (loved the book and loved the film too). Stopped off for a glass of wine at the fabulous Lilico's of course and my friend and I got talking about ceramics. My very clever friend made the very valid point that the makers who stick at what they are doing and have a distinctive and definite style are the ones who appear to be the most successful.

Me, I tend to jump around from idea to idea and project to project. In a way it's important to do this too - how else will you find your creative groove? However as I jump between ceramics and upcycled textiles I think I need to hone things down a little so that instead of making lots of good stuff I can start making a distinct selection of excellent stuff.

The tricky thing is working out where to focus. Doing a craft market over in Torrington next week so maybe I can see what happens there and take a lead from that.

Other makers - what are your thoughts on developing a distinct range?

Oooh and on a final note. One day I hope to be this good ...

This is from the very talented Nicola from Kianda - who has opened her own bespoke jewellery boutique up the road in Ilfracombe. Her work is absolutely stunning and you'll be able to see it at Lilico's on September 30th for my fabulous boutique evening.