I’m a kiln-formed Glass Artist which involves intricate cutting and placement of glass that gets fused together by heat using a kiln.
How did you start your business?
It initially evolved by helping my mum who used to teach glass workshops in her retirement until her health declined. By then, i was hooked by this medium and wanted to continue and take it further. It naturally evolved by teaching and experimenting.
How did you choose the name of your business?
I teach under the name of Manor Farm Fused Glass as this is where our business is located, but I used my own name for my own exhibitions and Galleries
What or who inspires your products?
I am facinated by striking brightness of colour and the vibrancy glass creates. I’m inspired by many things around me and add my rich pallette of colour to everything I create.
What does a typical day look like?
Pretty chaotic to most! working full time 7 days a week & being my mums full time carer with my partner which we do in shifts. Managing property and project managing, making glass for exhibitions and teaching glass workshops.
What do you enjoy most about the creative process?
That it totally absorbs my mind and takes me to a place of complete calm.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a small business owner?
Being accepted due to not coming from an art background or having relevant qualifications and making the right connections to progress and achieve my goals.
What is your hero product or one that means the most to you and why?
My vases of fused glass flowers with their unique copper stems and the way I present them.
What tip (or tips) would you give anyone looking to start a small creative business?
Believe in yourself and your idea’s. Set a goal and budget and aim for the best you can achieve. Be happy and do what you love doing. Sometimes you have to think outside the box and approach things differently depending on your circumstances.
Shop these thoughtful gifts and meet Katrina Shearlaw Glass at the Country Living Christmas Market.