Name: Becky Wignell
Age: 25
Location: Leeds U.K. I'm not Northern but I love it here!
Design background: I do have a degree in Contemporary Textile Practice but I am entirely self-taught in jewellery making. I started because I thought the shops could do with some brighter, louder, more funky jewellery.
Where do you get your inspiration from? I totally get my inspiration for the materials I use when I find a new item (toy, miniature, etc) it gives me an idea of what to create with it.
Is this your full time job? Yes! Now it is and I am very exited about it!
Are you involved in any other crafty projects or organisations? I am a proud founder member of the very first Craft Mafia in the U.K., the Leeds Craft Mafia, we aim to unite and promote local independent, DIY crafty businesses by providing a strong support network sharing resources, information, experience and expertise and opportunities to showcase their wares. We also hope to raise awareness and understanding of the DIY ethos and encourage a new generation of renegade crafters to learn and develop their crafty skills. I am also the official promoter for a craft market in Leeds called Pretty Crafty Things. Pretty Crafty Things is a monthly craft bazaar, with the purpose of providing an avenue for contemporary indie designers and a new generation of renegade crafters to showcase their wares and network with other like-minded folk. It is also an opportunity for people to buy quality, unique handmade goods from the real life person who made it.
Where can I find you in real life? In my house, in the park or at Pretty Crafty Things, the first Friday of every month, currently at Leeds Met Student Union but moving locations soon, check the myspace for details.
Any tips for someone who wants to start making their own stuff? Just do it! Don't be afraid to approach people for advice (Rachael here at Hannah Zakari was very helpful when I began) and check out the Etsy forums, so many people to help you there!
What music do you listen to whilst you work? God, all sorts. I am really into the Thermals a the moment and I'm lovin' M.I.A. It totally depends on my mood as to what I listen to.
What is the nicest comment you have ever received about your work? My wares have been likened to Pat Butcher's earrings, which I don't think was meant to be a compliment but I took it as one!
Any interesting customers? All my customers are interesting! You'd have to be to wear these beauties!
What is your favourite item that you have made? I love the sticklebrick earrings as I had totally forgotten about sticklebricks when I came across them again. I also made some super over the top earrings for a fashion shoot, which I really liked. I like the more over the top stuff, and of course anything made from Lego.
Can you recommend another designer? I love LadyLuckRulesOK she is a total inspiration to me, Tatty Devine are also amazing, but for the lesser known designers I have to say for clothes, RuffeoHeartsLilSnotty are totally ace! and if anyone hasn't seen Katie Crush's amazing fox scarves then you better check them out right now!
Anything else I might be interested in? Errrrrrm, I really want to move to the Caribbean and have a small wooden house by the sea and finally get better at surfing!