Before I go into hibernation for a Christmas, I wanted to say a BIG Bear Hug Thank you to all of you who have helped Home Thrown Studio grow in 2017. It's been an incredible year, with an Arts Residency in Tolne Denmark which changed the way I thought about my own making style and helped me develop a functional range that now illustrates my love of Cobalt but also gives me joy in every stage of the making process. Irregular, natural and free is what sits with me.

Biggest thanks to my workshoppers who continue to teach me new things every week! You've been brilliant and I couldn't dream of doing this without you, bring on the secret "healthy" eating club next year! To all my market stall friends, who keep doing what they love and shaking off the social pressures of a warm secure 9-5 office job! See you in 2018 for more swappsies and camaraderie.

This summer was probably my favourite Summer I can remember for a long time, long days in the studio and hanging out with The Factory Studio makers was ace! Can't wait for next year! Thank you to Heather and Joel from South Coast Roastery who had the great idea of selling my wares in their lovely independent Coffee Shop; Boscanova. I couldn't wish for a more perfect home for my wares! It's been a year of juggling multiple freelance jobs! But it's been great fun and definitely worth it for the studio time! As if 2017 couldn't get any better on Wednesday I woke up a little tired and typically knocked down with a pre Xmas cold to open an email from Arts University Innovation Team to say my application for funding through the ERDF, for some exciting projects has been Approved! This is great timing with the approval of their innovation studio which will be built in 2018. It looks amazing and I'm already excited about the opportunities and experiences I will get to have in 2018!

AUB - New plans for their Innovation Studio - Supporting start ups and small businesses in 2018

It's finally here! I don't know why it has taken me so long! But my Web Shop is open! I feel that I have been carrying this weight and expectation on my shoulders for ages. Wanting to get it right, but needing all the necessary elements in line it has taken much longer then I wanted! I can finally tick this 2017 Job off my Procrastinating wall of shame! Haha Thanks so much to Clemens Majunke for moving next door to my studio and offering to trade his Photography skills for clay vouchers. I probably wouldn't have got my act in gear if it wasn't for his enthusiasm. Big thanks to my friends Jo Armitage and David Mallett for helping me with my packaging and also just being magic! And my family & Friends, who keep me well fed and persuade me to leave the studio from time to time.

Thanks again for an incredible year! Wishing you merry times with your friends and family, Happy Christmas! Now a couple of weeks of sleeping and eating! See you on the other side!

lots love Gem x

2017 Ramblings before Festive Hibernation