Meet The Maker - Sue Rees

Welcome to our 'Meet the Maker' series, where we delve into the fascinating stories behind the artisans shaping our craft collection. 
Today we will be chatting to the jewellery maker Sue Rees.

1) What initially sparked your interest in making jewellery, and why did you decide to pursue this further?
When my children were little I wanted to do something creative for myself, so I signed up for a silver jewellery making course at Bristol School of Art. I worked in silver for a few years then wanted to add more colour to my work. That’s when I found anodised aluminium! You can paint it, dye it, print on it and etch into it. I love the vibrant colours and patterns that can be created. I worked part time as a teacher alongside jewellery making for a few years but am now all about the jewellery.

2) Could you offer a sneak peek into a new technique or style you're excited to explore in the future?
I recently invested in a laser etching machine and have begun to design pieces using etched patterns. The possibilities are endless!

3) What challenges have you faced in your crafting career, and how have you overcome them?
I think the biggest challenge has been myself, a lack of confidence in my ability and a bit of imposter syndrome. I’m also a chronic migraine sufferer which can really get in the way of producing work consistently and this also means that I hardly ever do markets/shows in case I have to cancel.
 

4) What advice would you give to aspiring craft artists looking to turn their passion into a successful career?
Don’t compare yourself to others, we are all different and make for different audiences. Don’t under price your work! Approach galleries and shops with confidence, most people are kind and appreciative.

5) Share a heart warming tale of a crafting project that not only brought you joy but also created a special connection with its recipient or the audience.
A few years ago I was asked to make some Christmas gifts for a charity that supports vulnerable women in Bristol. I made macrame morse code bracelets that said ‘hope.’ The following year I crocheted wrist warmers (I’m also a yarn addict). At the party where the goody bags were given out, one of the women showed the organiser that she was still wearing her ‘hope’ bracelet from last year. You never know how your work will impact someone, and most of the time we don’t see, so it was especially lovely to hear about that.

Now for a few fun questions...

6) What is your favourite restaurant in Bristol and why? 
I recently went to ‘Mowgli’ for the first time, and it was fab! Great food and amazing décor, they’ve even go swinging seats at the tables!



7) Tell us about a book you've read recently that you would recommend to a friend.
‘All My Mothers’ by Joanna Glenn, I didn’t want it to end.



8) Which TV series are you currently hooked on? 
I will forever and ever return and return to
Call the midwife
Poldark
Gilmore Girls
Schitts Creek

9) If you could master any skill instantly, what would it be?
To be able to play the banjo that I bought on a whim a few years ago!

10) And lastly, where do you shop to buy your cards and gifts? High street shops, online or elsewhere?
Mostly high street shops with a few clicks here and there when needed!