Dawn Turner Designs

Hi All

As some of you who know me personally, you will know that throughout my time as a glass and community artist, I have continued to work a part-time job.

It’s only a few hours, and my boss has been a dream to work for, allowing me to be flexible on my hours, my days, etc depending on  the needs of MY business; as long as I was looking after what I do for his.

But the time has come to finally step out fully on my own.  I’ve talked about it, I’ve planned it, I’ve even started training someone before.

But then the pandemic hit, and for various reasons, the training stopped.  I had to re-evaluate my business to survive the lockdowns, as nearly everything I did was in person. Workshops, events, or selling via galleries, which were of course, closed.

We’re now at the new normal, and still in uncertain times I guess.  However, I have never felt so sure of anything in my life, and as of the start of September, I am going to be fully self-employed.  No pesky little part-time job getting in my way (joking, it’s been a lifeline really)

There’s been changes to what I make, changes to the studio, new equipment and most importantly probably – a new mindset.

There’s a few people to thank that have helped me a long my way, somehow – but I am ready!  So I am going for it, and the countdown is on!

Wish me luck!

Blimey folks, where does the time go?  What with updating Facebook, Instagram, TikTok (yes, for my sins I’ve signed up for that too!) this poor old blog gets neglected at times.

So, where are we at?  I see my last blog post was WAY back in October… since then, I did the October Facebook Live event, then one for Mother’s Day.

Workshops are back on!  At the moment, I am still mainly doing closed/private work, but do keep an eye out for some updates to my classes soon.  In person events are back on too!   In June, I am doing Six Streets Arts Trail, and the Hidden Valleys Arts Trail as part of OS Notts , so if you”re out and about at either of those, do come and say hello – it’s good to be back out and see people.

I have some big and very exciting news though.   I won a grant recently to help me make my business more sustainable.  Not specifically in an ‘eco’ way – although my investment will mean I can recycle and re-use every scrap of glass; but in the way of what else I can offer.

I am getting a Wazer desktop water-jet cutter!   A what now?

This will mean I can cut much more complex designs in my own art, as well as streamlining some of my product range for more efficiency.

I will be able to sell pre-cut shapes to other glass artists; and also be able to offer  bespoke cutting services.  I come from a glass background rather than a tech/cutting background;  this means I will have a deeper understanding of the material than some water-jet service providers can.

But Wazer can cut lots of materials!  I will be able to offer a service to other local small businesses for small scale cutting and prototyping

I’ve included a link to a quick demo video of Wazer from Solid Print 3D, who I have helped me with ordering process with lots of useful advice and insight – this clip shows it cutting metal, but it’s a similar process.

I cannot wait to get it set up and running and seeing what amazing shapes I can create.

I’ve got another Facebook Live coming up soon.  This one will be a mixture of seasonal decorations and giftware.  Watch the space for an update soon with a link.

I know, it’s still summer and far too soon to be thinking about Christmas… isn’t it?

Well, for us makers, we do have to think about it early.  Shops are looking for their stock, ready for the Autumn run up; so whilst everybody else is thinking about sun, sea and sangria (!), we’re thinking of Christmas designs.

Although I am nowhere near this organised, I know that some people like to start shopping early.  Some of you are already  putting bits aside.  So in a couple of weeks time, I will be doing Advent In August – a Facebook Live event to launch some new designs, as well as a reminder of some of the items in my collections.  This way, you can find unique and handmade gifts to show someone how much you care.

If you come and watch live on the evening, you will get entry into a prize draw for something special from me, plus there will be a bonus gift for anybody ordering during the event too.  If you haven’t watched a live event before, they’re usually good fun; especially watching me fluff my words!  You can ask questions or for a closer look at something.  You have the opportunity to ask questions.  It is a really easy way to do a bit of shopping, mask off, feet up on the sofa, drink of choice in hand!

Click through to the event, click going and then set the notifications to all to get reminders and updates.  Here’s the EVENT LINK