We’re in love with these new jewellery pieces from talented jeweller Sophie Divett.
Check out her awesome new weta necklaces in bronze or Sterling silver – and if you like those, how about a bronze cicada shell pin to match?
See more stunning jewellery from Sophie Divett »
When Shanon Povey of MaoriArt was made redundant from 22 years of being a storeman, he found himself at a turning point. Seizing opportunity from chance, he turned to his abilities in woodcarving and moko tattoo, with the goal of using his skills to become self-employed.
What do you make?
I make tattoo designs, Maori woodcarvings, resin necklaces, and paintings in oils, resin, acrylic and watercolours.
How did you get into your craft?
I have been sketching from childhood, so at 17 years of age I had sat in on some glass etching, then continued onto a one year woodcarving course.
Do you have any formal training?
I completed the one year course at Whaiora Marae. Everything else is self taught.
Your favourite materials, tools and processes?
Quality pencils, paper, watercolours, custom wood boards, chisels, a Dremel, various tools required for the task – and definitely music or some sort of background noise!
Tell us about the techniques involved in producing one of your pieces:
First is the concept, understanding the job at hand, brain storming, research, organising, elbow grease, highlights, sealing, completion…
What inspires you? Improving my artwork!
Is there a philosophy behind your work?
Correctly organise your design, so as to prevent negative energy.
Hokia ki nga Maunga ki a purea koe e nga hau o Tawhirimatea…
Describe your creative process?
I am a battery running fast until the energy is thin, recharging on the music and people that surround me.
Describe your workspace?
I am able to have up to three people participating inside my area at the one sitting.
Five words that describe your mind:
Patient, fun, proud, imaginative, deep in thought…
Your favourite feedback?
“Thank you!” is enough – it usually comes with a smile.
What are you currently listening to?
Dogs by Pink Floyd, from the Animals album.
Recommend a album?
Jeff Wayne’s musical version of The War of the Worlds.
Whats your favourite childhood book and why?
I was a comic book kid: The Grey Hulk, The Silver Surfer, 2000 AD… originally for the entertainment value, then with age the art work.
What are you currently reading?
The Reed Book of Maori Exploration: Stories of Voyage and Discovery (research on New Zealand histories). I try to find commonalities that confirm the history, this helps in my design process.
A favourite quote:
“Hokia ki nga Maunga ki a purea koe e nga hau o Tawhirimatea…”
(“Return to the mountains to be purified by the four winds…”).
I try to find commonalities that confirm the history, this helps in my design process.
Who is your hero/heroine? Why? My wife, she helps where she is able.
Tell us about your pets:
Had dogs, bless their personalities! Upgraded to children on their passing.
If you were a crafty superhero, what would your name and superpower be?
“Perfection Extreme” – extreme, extreme, extreme… My superpower: stressing and torturing myself with the fine detail!
What would your advice be for those starting out in a crafty business?
Find established artists on media to compare your artwork to, if they are doing well, and in your opinion your artwork is equal, judge your progress…
What was the last handmade item you bought and what attracted you to it?
A patterned deck of playing cards, the attraction was the concept.
What’s in store for the rest of 2017?
To continue practising my tattoo art, painting… I was requested to do a Maori woodcarving module at the local high school. Also prep for the silly season!
See more of MaoriArt’s work here »
This stunning handmade pendant from Born to be Boho incorporates a beautiful white stone from the Kaikoura coastline, intricately entwined in Sterling silver wire. Just gorgeous!
See more from Born to be Boho here »
This gorgeous custom ring pendant from The Lil Heart is created in your choice of precious metals to capture a significant message or words. It will hold 19-24 characters including spaces – we think it’s a beautiful way to carry your loved ones’ names with you always!
Order yours now from The Lil Heart »
Did you know the name daisy is derived from the Anglo-Saxon daeges eage – day’s eye – as the flower opens only in the daytime?
Roman mythology says that the daisy originates from the nymph Belides, who was one of the Dryads presiding over the forest and meadows. While dancing on the edge of the forest she attracted the admiration of Vertumnus, the deity who presided over the orchards. To escape his pursuit, she transformed herself into the flower Bellis, which is daisy’s botanical name.
This beautiful piece from Silver and Silk features individually crafted enamel daisies and can be worn as a necklace, crown, or wrapped as a bracelet. Every one of the dozen enamel flowers is unique, with subtle flares of colour and changes in the texture of the silver.
Made with sterling silver, glass enamel and glass beads.
See more stunning jewellery from Silver and Silk »
Debbie of Wiredlove is a full time office worker, busy Mum to two teenage daughters (and one chocolate furbaby) and wife to Chris. Debbie creates her individual wearable art works in her spare time and dreams that one day her creations will adorn the necks and fingers of the rich and famous…
What do you make?
I make handcrafted jewellery items using Sterling silver, copper, brass and mixed media.
How did you get into your craft?
I have always done crafty things, be it clothes, or toys for my children or family or friends’ kids. But in the last four years I have gotten into jewellery – this started with a friend giving me some artistic wire and some beads and it went from there.
Do you have formal training or qualifications in your craft?
In 2014 I attended a level 1 and 2 silver course with The Silversmiths’ Guild of Canterbury, who run courses at The Tannery in Woolston, Christchurch. From my very first lesson you could say I was hooked – I enjoyed it so much I became a Committee member on the Guild! The SSG run monthly workshops for members – so I’m always learning new techniques.
Your favourite materials, tools and processes?
I love mixing silver and copper in my creations. Both metals react differently once heated – over-heat silver and it will melt!
Tell us about the techniques involved in producing one of your jewellery pieces:
Where do I start? Designing, handsawing a piece of silver plate, heating, forming, soldering, filing… not my most favourite job, but must be done!
What inspires you?
Everything inspires me. I love everything to do with nature, shapes… the list could go on. I also love looking at fashions overseas to see which way the trends are going.
Describe your creative process:
Sometimes I will wake up with ideas and sometimes just looking at something will give me an idea. I can’t say I have certain look to my jewellery (i.e. a range) – I’m forever trying new ideas out.
Describe your workspace:
Cluttered, disorganised and a work in progress. I currently have my work station set up in our office and my soldering station set up in our garage. My dream would be to have a bright airy studio in my backyard or at least a jeweller’s bench, which I’ve been waiting a couple of years for my brother-in-law to make, LOL!
Your favourite feedback from a customer:
Just seeing the customer’s face on seeing an item is feedback enough.
What are you currently listening to?
Imagine Dragons – Thunder.
Recommend an album:
Imagine Dragons – Smoke + Mirrors – they are my favourites at the moment.
What are you reading right now?
Nora Roberts – Whiskey Beach.
A favourite quote:
Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try.
Tell us about your pets:
An eight year old chocolate lab named Rusty – he’s finally starting to get out of the puppy stage! 
What would your advice be for those starting out in a crafty business?
Never give up on your dreams.
What was the last handmade item you bought and what attracted you to it?
Some beautiful body butter by Inga Ford Soapmaker, in Peachy – smells divine and leaves my skin feeling beautiful.
What’s in store for the rest of 2017?
I’m currently working on some commission work which I love doing. Perhaps some markets once the weather warms up, and The Silversmiths’ Guild have an exhibition later in the year – so I’ll be working towards this.
Debbie has generously offered a sweet prize of a stamped Sterling silver adjustable bracelet with either ‘Aroha’ ‘Love’ or ‘Kia Kaha’ stamped on it, valued at $45.00 (see above) for one lucky Felt reader. To be in to win this beautiful bracelet, simply leave a comment telling us what you like about Debbie’s story and her creations. The draw will be made on Friday 30 June and is open to New Zealand residents only.
Purchase from Wiredlove here »
The Lil Heart make beautiful jewellery from artwork you supply – be it a hand-drawn heart in your own unique style, or your child’s precious artwork. Send it through to them and they’ll cast and polish it to perfection!
Order your custom piece from The Lil Heart now »
Beautifully delicate, individually crafted flower jewellery made from sterling silver, glass enamel, silk cocoons and glass beads, from Silver and Silk.
Purchase from Silver and Silk here »
