Hey there, can you introduce yourself?

I am a London based ceramicist, first graduating in 2004 in ceramics design at Central Saint Martin’s and returning to study at Farnham University for the Creative Arts, completing a Masters in Contemporary Craft, specialising in ceramics, in 2012. Since graduating I have participated in events and exhibitions in England, Japan, Bali, Milan, Bahrain, Dubai and the USA.

I am an active maker, involved in many roles related to my practice. I teach, was a technician for 11.5 years, write articles, create pieces for commission and exhibitions. I also ran a business and workshop for 5 years before completing an MA, in a National Trust property and now work from a studio at home. I have been a trustee and council member for London Potters since 2005, organising many ceramic related events.

Tell us a bit about the book?

It is an introduction book for all, with twenty step-by-step air dry clay projects for those who do not have access to facilities and would like to make pieces at home without having to fire a kiln, or would like to try before committing to a ceramics course. I hope it will encourage more people to get involved with clay!

What was the inspiration behind it?

I love to experiment with clay, exploring different perspectives of nature and traveling around the world, collecting curio to be inspired by. I believe objects tell stories of people’s lives, often holding personal and collective meanings of a particular time, place, and event. I hope this book will inspire others to create customised works that are personal and special to them.

Which is your favourite project?

I enjoyed all of the projects, but I would say that the marbling effect using nail varnish floating on water was one of my favourites. It took a few practice runs but the results were spontaneous and beautiful.

What is your craft space like?

I now work from home, with a studio built at the end of my garden. I would describe it as a ‘hobbit’ house where the magic happens, small but cosy, fitting me and my practical needs.

Have you always been creative?

Yes. From an early age I have always loved to create works. My family have always encouraged me to be creative and too express myself through arts and crafts.

When did you first start crafting?

At the age of 4, I made a house of clay at school, which was photographed and published in a local newspaper. Little did I know I would become a ceramicist!

Who are your crafty heroes?

Initially, the children TV shows ‘Blue Peter’ and ‘Take Hart’ with Tony Hart was a source of inspiration for me at an early age. Now, I am open to different sources and am very much appreciative of works by other makers, especially those who concentrate upon using clay within their projects.

Where do you find inspiration?

I am inspired by nature and travel, visiting other makers, collecting curio and found objects from around the world. In my free time, I love to search Instagram and Pinterest for ideas to create crafty projects too. Skills share is another site I follow on Facebook, showing short videos using different mediums and techniques. As a maker I am constantly looking and being open to different sources of inspiration. I am inspired by the everyday, people I meet, objects I see and places I visit, being constantly open to different ideas to develop my craft works.

What's next for you?

Delve into the world of air-dry clay crafting with 20 beautiful, easy-to-make projects that are suitable for all skill levels. Air dry clay looks, feels and performs like traditional clay but requires no oven bake or fire; professional-looking ceramics can be made in the reader's own kitchen without the need for a kiln. Each project comes with step-by-step photos and detailed, easy-to-follow instructions. The book also includes instructions for all the core techniques, plus traceable templates. In no time beautiful homewares and jewellery can be created that will be sure to impress.