2023 has been an epic year for me, as I was so privileged to be chosen to take part in the BBC's series two of 'Make it at Market'. Being part of this amazing production took me totally out of my comfort zone. I achieved things that I honestly didn't think I could, but my drive was to reach out to people and tell them my story, sharing my creative journey and my passion for my work. I truly hope that you enjoy watching the show and have a clearer understanding of how much I love my work and making things for you. 

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'Make it at Market' is hosted by Dominic Chinea and the aim is to help flourishing new makers develop their skills by supporting them on an eight-week journey, helping them grow and enhance their craft. Assisting them on this journey and encouraging them to achieve their dreams are their carefully selected mentors.

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My mentor on the show was Andy Bates. Andy is a leather worker with nearly 40 years of experience working with heritage leathers to create bespoke & handstitched leather goods for private clients, museums, TV, film, theatre and opera.  

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As part of the filming process each maker/artist had to produce three different items to showcase their work to Dom and to their mentor. These pieces had to be:  

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A volume piece
This is something that can be made quickly and easily at a lower price point. 

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A favourite piece 
Something that we enjoy making and gives us pleasure, regardless of how much it costs to make. 

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A high-end piece 
A piece that takes a lot longer to make, uses more expensive materials and screams quality. 

 
After the eight weeks of growing our skills, businesses and confidence, we were invited back with our mentors to meet up again with Dom to find out how we had got on. 

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Being part of the show has been a life-changing experience. I’ve pushed myself totally out of my comfort zone to promote my business and to share my story. I want to thank my mentor, Andy and Flabbergast, the production company, who have been so supportive throughout this process, wishing me and the other creatives the best success and showing our stories to the public in such a positive light. I can’t thank you enough. 

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I would also like to thank Dani from DD Practical, my co-leather worker on the show, and all the other 28 makers who took part for making filming days such fun and who make this show so amazing.