Glasgow Jeweller Shines on BBC One Show
A talented jeweller from Glasgow, Sarah Fleming, is set to make waves on the small screen as she secures a coveted spot on Dom Chinea’s BBC One show, Make it at Market. The 15-part series, slated to premiere on March 4, is hosted by Dom Chinea of The Repair Shop fame and is designed to empower aspiring entrepreneurs in transforming their crafting passions into thriving businesses.
From Chemistry to Crafting
Sarah Fleming, the creative mind behind Wee Thistle Jewellery, stands out as one of the fortunate individuals selected from a pool of thousands to participate in the show. Her journey into the world of jewellery making was an unexpected yet serendipitous one. Originally pursuing a path in chemistry, Sarah’s true calling was revealed during a summer course at the prestigious Glasgow School of Art (GSA). It was there that her love for crafting intricate pieces with her hands was ignited, leading her to pivot her career towards the art of jewellery making.
Balancing Passion with Life’s Challenges
Despite her newfound passion, life threw Sarah some unexpected challenges. Juggling teaching responsibilities and family obligations left little time for her craft. However, in 2019, a combination of severe hearing loss and a personal tragedy prompted Sarah to reassess her priorities. Unable to teach due to her hearing impairment, she found solace in jewellery making, a therapeutic outlet that soon became her primary focus.
Crafting with Purpose
Seeking to hone her skills and reignite her craft, Sarah embarked on further training under the guidance of master goldsmith Scott McIntyre at the esteemed Vanilla Ink Jewellery School. Here, she not only refined her techniques but also embraced a sustainable approach to her craft. By recycling gold and silver and sourcing gemstones ethically, Sarah embodies the values of Wee Thistle Jewellery, creating pieces that are not only visually striking but also socially conscious.
A Career-Changing Opportunity
Sarah’s dedication and artistic flair caught the attention of the Make it at Market producers, leading her to apply for a coveted spot on the show. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Waterperry Gardens, the series features a diverse array of crafters spanning various disciplines, from blacksmiths to woodworkers. Each participant is paired with a seasoned mentor who imparts invaluable wisdom and guidance on navigating the intricate world of business.
Reflecting on her journey, Sarah expressed her disbelief and gratitude upon being selected for the show. “This is such an amazing opportunity for me and my small business to be featured on a BBC series,” she shared. The experience of working alongside her mentor, Sonny Bailey-Ard, and the talented team behind the show has been transformative, offering her insights that she wouldn’t have gained otherwise. “It’s taught me so much about myself and the jewellery business,” she added, underscoring the profound impact of this career-defining opportunity.
As Sarah embraces this new chapter in her creative journey, she remains grateful for the supportive community of makers she’s become a part of and the doors that have opened for her small business. With each piece she creates, she weaves a story of resilience, passion, and artistry, solidifying her place in the vibrant world of contemporary jewellery design.
