A decade of handmade jewellery

Can you believe it’s been 10 years since I picked up a pair of pliers and started making jewellery? A whole decade of beads, wires, and countless “aha!” moments. Time does fly when you’re doing something you love.

If you’ve read some of my previous blog posts, you’ll know that making jewellery has become more than just a creative outlet for me; it’s a way to slow down, focus, and find a little peace in a busy world.

A blue and red stack neckpiece

Costume jewellery love

Growing up, I was drawn to costume jewellery – those bold, colourful pieces that seemed to carry a bit of magic. Whenever I travelled, I would pick out a favourite piece as a wearable memory, something I could hold on to long after the trip.

I remember finding an oversized pair of earrings with enamel detail in a tiny market in Es Cana, Ibiza. They didn’t go with any of my outfits, but they stood out as I looked at everything displayed on the market stall and I had to have them. To this day, they remind me of the smell of sea salt and freshly cooked food in the air there.

A selection of Thea’s handmade treasures

The journey into making

About ten years ago, I stumbled upon jewellery-making tutorials online, and something just clicked. I became obsessed with learning how to create my own, unique pieces. It started as a way to make things for myself, but I soon realised I wanted to share that joy with others.

Now, I create treasures for fellow jewellery lovers who appreciate accessories as unique as they are. No two pieces I make are the same, and I love that each has its own personality. Sometimes, I’ll start with a vague idea, and by the time I’m done, it’s turned into something completely different – like the materials have a mind of their own.

A close-up from one of Thea’s earliest table displays

Finding my style

Over the years, I’ve noticed certain themes emerging in my work. Maybe it’s a particular colour palette, a texture, or a shape that keeps calling me back. I’ve always been drawn to discs, earthy tones and organic shapes, but now and then, I’ll surprise myself with a splash of neon and a geometric design.

My hands guide me to create pieces that feel authentic to who I am. I think that’s what makes handmade jewellery so special – along with the materials and design, it’s about the energy and intention behind the creation.

The beauty of handmade

One of the things I love most about my jewellery is how tactile it is. I want people to feel it – to run their fingers over the textures and notice the little details that make each piece unique.

I also love how jewellery can elevate an outfit, drawing the eye and adding that perfect finishing touch. It’s a simple way to express yourself and feel good in your own skin. Plus, let’s be honest, there’s something incredibly satisfying about the weight of a well-made piece of jewellery. It’s like wearing a little piece of art.

Gratitude and intention

Creative encouragement

If you’ve ever thought about trying your hand at a craft – whether it’s jewellery making or something else entirely – I’d encourage you to give it a go. You might find that it brings a little more joy and calm into your life, and in ten years, you could be reflecting on your own creative journey, as I am now.

P.S!

Did you know that the oldest known jewellery pieces are over 100,000 years old? They were made from seashells and were found in a cave in Morocco. Isn’t it amazing to think that humans have been adorning themselves for millennia? It reminds me that I’m contributing to a very long tradition.

Thea x

Find out more

• Browse and buy from my current range in the shop
• Take a virtual stroll through my previous makes in the archive gallery
• Read more blog posts about my approach to creativity and small business ownership