I also worked for a picture restorer who really educated me in the use of colour, and how one colour works layered over another. He taught me to think about , and solve, practical problems that would arise. I really enjoyed this work and am so grateful for his patience and skill.

I then began painting on fabric and experimenting by myself. I bought a book on the basics, and took it from there.

I painted fine fabrics for a dress designer, and evolved ideas by which I could incorporate small pieces into jewellery. This proved very popular and customers would ask for specific items, and so the range grew.    I then developed the method of production I use now for most of my work. It is time consuming, but each step is an adventure, and the end result is totally unique.   Over the past couple of years I have become more proficient with machinery. At first I found it very hard, and also a bit scary! In order to save my finger ends from being sanded away, the size of an earring, say, can’t be too small.   I am constantly finding new effects and trying new materials. The essence is always to keep an open mind. I thoroughly enjoy my work, and I hope this enthusiasm comes over in the pieces I make.   I have taken great encouragement from people who have seen me at shows. They are very positive, and welcome the uniqueness of material, design and ideas.