Wild little rose

By Roisin Arnold

Christmas making in my workshop is definitely in full swing. I’m busy making bespoke items at the moment and I’m feeling very grateful to be creating unique pieces that will end up under the Christmas tree for people.

I’ve been reflecting on sustainability a lot lately. It’s a word we hear often and is crucial, but what does it mean, for a small business like mine? Sustainability is about maintaining something, for as long as possible in a certain way. In my workshop, that means thinking about the materials I source, as well as how I use scrap and leftovers. I ask myself: how can I ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’, to maximum effect? It is important to aim to reduce use of materials and consider reusing/repurposing items and resources. Of course it also makes good business sense to reuse valuable metal! I choose to source recycled silver when buying materials for new projects. Though slightly more expensive I believe the environmental impact is worth it. All scrap silver left over from my making is reused. This is where it gets creative! Through a process called granulation, silver can be melted into tiny granules which can then be used to decorate items like rings, bangles and pendants.

Sustainability day-to-day is being mindful of what I’m using. Think through to the next steps: where is that material going to end up? Making to order means I can be more selective in use of materials in the first place. If I do have popular items in stock, the numbers will be small and hopefully moving quickly to a new home. Packaging is a key area to minimise environmental impact. Currently I’m using boxes made from recycled materials and any additional packing can be reused or recycled again.

In the run up to Christmas when there will be lots of lovely gifts and paper under the tree; if you can ‘shop small’ for something, consider it. I know I will be doing a happy dance for every order that comes through! Don’t forget there are so many great local businesses in Dartford that are featured right here in the magazine.

So, what’s on my workbench this week? I’m in the midst of creating a small Christmas collection which is very exciting. The collection comprises a bangle, pendant necklace, ring and earrings. All items include plenty of my signature hammer texture and can be personalised with initial charms: ideal for gifting. Items can of course be bought individually or together, and there may be a special offer coming when it launches (keep your eyes peeled on my Instagram: @wild_littlerose) Small handmade jewellery gifts are a great way to give someone a thoughtful Christmas present: made just for them.

Until next time, please come and find me on Instagram- feel free to say hello. I’ll be posting updates on my soon-to-launch website! If there’s any way I can help with your Christmas gift plans don’t hesitate to ask.