Who's That Lady? (It's Me, Hi!)
The face behind the "wonky glass lady" and how I developed an unrelenting passion for glass fusing.
From a young age, I've been immersed in the world of crafting. At five years old, my mother gave me a large, hardback book called "Make It", filled with creative ideas using everyday objects. I still remember the first project I completed - a little sewing case made from a small piece of felt and an empty lipstick container. The joy I felt in making something by hand was contagious and I've carried that passion with me throughout my life.
Now, at nearly 65, I still knit, sew, crochet and explore other creative outlets like felting and decoupage.
After retiring from a 30-year career in the probation service, I sought to fill my time with something meaningful. I set up small wellbeing groups where people could engage in craft activities, which quickly became a hit. These groups were so well-loved and busy that I couldn't imagine going back to work.
When I needed to home educate my daughter, we found new creative adventures together. She developed a deep passion for art, especially after attending a glass-fusing workshop with me. Glass fusing quickly became an addiction - a hobby that led us to invest in a small kiln and start our own glass fusing emporium, QuirkWonky Glass. I became known as "The WonkyGlass Lady," creating unique, handcrafted glass pieces that reflect my belief in the beauty of imperfection.
Over time, my daughter went on to study at university and I found myself with a garage full of glass and an unrelenting passion to keep creating. That's when I began selling at craft fairs and markets, where my work found a welcoming audience.
