So, where do I start to tell you about me? I am Belinda Brierley and I was first introduced to Jewellery in my schooldays (too long gone!!), so I have Mr Jordan to thank for that. Was not allowed to work in Silver as it was too expensive, but learnt techniques using copper sheet and wire, and also basic lapidary and enamelling.

Unfortunately, I didn't continue with this when I left school, but then took it up again when my children were young, fitting in evening classes when I could find them, and weekend courses; thanks to Jinks McGrath, she is amazing, both in knowledge and inspiration.

It all stopped again for a few years, or more, and I only decided to start again this past year and a bit following an illness and not being able to work, then not being able to secure a job! Tough world out there!! I thought that I would like to incorporate beads in my designs, as I had previously only used cabochons, so visited some bead fairs and Rock'n'Gem shows, and picked up a few books to help me. I had also heard and read about Precious Metal Clay, so decided to try this out too.

This brings me to where I am now, enjoying making a range of items, some gifted to family members, some sold to friends for gifts. I listen to what people like, what they wear, favourite colours, current trends. It is all rather addictive and is more of a passion than just a hobby.

Apologies now to my family; just tell me to stop when you don't want anymore gifts of jewellery! My thanks also to my family for the encouragement given to continue, for the input from my daughters Melissa and Kathryn and my extended family, Jennifer, Tim and Matthew (the vice really was what I wanted for Christmas!). Last but not least, to my hubby Jeremy for the numerous trips to bead fairs and detours to bead shops, the photographs for the website, his opinion on everything I make, I really do appreciate it!