Makers Dozen - Q & A with Elaine Day

Please describe your work in 3 words. 

Silver Natural Narratives

How long have you been a maker?

In this craft... around 38 years, though I was brought up in a creative household and so was ‘ making’ in clay, fabric, wool and paint my entire life before discovering silver.

What’s the best part of your process?

Seeing what comes out of the tumble polisher. It’s a bit like a potter seeing what has survived the kiln.

What’s the worst part of your process?

Making silver jewellery from scratch is a dirty craft and you can obtain quite a few injuries, stabbing yourself, sawing into fingers, forgetting something is hot and getting burnt.

Do you have a favourite book about your craft?

Not really, I tend to be more hands on but I sometimes dip into 'Jewellery Concepts and Technology' by Oppi Untrachi.

What are you reading?

Catching Up by Mary Lay. Its a gentle historical novel set in Cheltenham, written by a local author.

What’s your favourite film?

That’s a tough question. I like Sci fi, fantasy and British films best, its hard to pick one....Silent Running is one of my favourites.

What do you listen to in your studio?

Podcasts like Natalie Haynes “Stands up for the Classics, 'No Such Thing as a Fish' and audio books.

What one thing would improve your life as a maker?

If the cost of silver and gold would stop rocketing my life would be happier.

What’s the best piece of advice you have received?

Don’t feel pressured to take on every job. Say “No” and stick to your decision if you don’t feel comfortable taking a repair or commission on.

What’s the question you are asked the most?

“How long did it take you to make that?” and it’s always difficult to answer.

Life as a maker can be challenging, would you do it all again?
Of course! It’s how I’m programmed to be.