I have always enjoyed using my hands and creating things so making a career from my passion was an obvious choice.  My grandmothers started my fascination with making things by passing on their traditional textile skills.  I now design and make original and quirky jewellery in a variety of non-precious materials and also felt accessories.  I have exhibited widely in the UK, Europe, Japan, USA and Canada.

Being passionate about your business is a main element of success: you have to be driven and focussed.  Networking with friends and colleagues is also vital for support and success

Mandy Nash - Mandy Nash Jewellery

The first year in business was relatively easy as there was great demand for my designs. The subsequent years were harder as I learned how to plan ahead and adapt to changing markets.  In 2010 I received an Arts Council grant to help buy a laser cutter, which has opened up many new possibilities to work with different materials. 

Website: www.mandynash.co.uk