My favourite piece is my mixed media mermaid
Craftt creations
IN this week’s craft creations we visit Sam East of ArtlySparklyDesigns. Based in Glan Conwy, Sam creates wonderfully unique items ranging from jewellery to accessories. Here she explains how her crafting journey began:
“I have always had a flair for the imaginative and as a child/ young adult they often manifested in the ideas I had for crafts.
“I started customising vintage clothing circa 1990 and this led to a lifetime love of textile and textile art, something I wish now to pursue.
“But my real journey started about 10 years ago when I began to design felt book covers, then polymer acrylic clay jewellery – I loved bold colours inspired by nature and often my designs revolved around leaves and flowers.”
“Fast forward six years and I discovered sea glass. I had never found any before and was amazed by its beauty and possibilities. I played around with ideas, incorporating recycled materials and new, and my first designs were realised.
“I sold them in several craft shops and galleries around the area and felt blessed that they were well received.
“I now sell on eBay, FB but mainly local craft and holistic fairs.
“As an ethical vegan of 29 years and a spiritual wanderer I knew that the focus of my business needed to honour this so 50p from each item of the ‘Ocean Gypsy’ range is donated to animal free medical research.
“I often use beach found or charity shop broken bargains to embellish my designs and each one is unique and infused with love.
“My themes tend to be inspired by the ocean, nature and spiritual iconography and of course, I am always open to commission work.
“Other items I sell include handmade knitted pixie hats, wristies, bags, local photography and mixed media items.
“My favourite piece is without question my first attempt at mixed media artwork – I designed a mermaid piece from new, second hand and found items, translated it to a print and it is now one of my best sellers.”
To see more of Sam’s work, visit the Facebook page at www.facebook. com/ Artlysparkly designs.