Hey, It’s been a long time since I did my last blog which was way before lock down.
So where to start….
I opened my new Studio/Shop as planned on the 29th February 2020, which was wonderful to have my own space and welcome new customers. but it wasn’t long before I had to close due to Covid19. I was also furloughed from my part time employment.
Lockdown web orders for Fusion have kept my business going and I thank you all for buying from me. It has made such an impact on a small independent business. Fusion was and still is, in very high demand. More than we can physically get from the fantastic makers in Canada. As you can imagine there were all sorts of shipping issues, factory closures, ingredients sourcing problems, staff shortages, the list goes on! Our UK supplier managed to keep a small supply coming to the UK via air shipments to feed us stockists to feed all you Fusion fans. Shipments are still slow but hopefully, they will be back to a steady pace soon.
Due to the demand for paint and shortages on Fusion, this made me realise that I put all my eggs in one basket. I built my business on Fusion and what would happen if Fusion disappeared? So, with this in mind, I took on my old favourite paint Autentico. I have used Autentico since I started upcycling in 2011, so I knew the paint was a great product. I also wanted to support a UK paint brand and chose to stock Cornish Milk Mineral Paint. This brand is very new and only launched in January 2020, right in time for Covid. I love the brand ethos behind this paint and I’m excited to have it onboard. You can read more about the 3 paint brands I support in the main menu to the left.
Going forward
I re-opened my studio in July. I am extremely busy with customer commission work and fully booked until October! Sadly, my part time employment has been made redundant, but this sets me off on my personal path to make my business work. This, I’m sure, is going to be very hard work but exciting too.
I have now re-organised my workshops and have added new dates for September and October. So, if you want to learn to upcycle and learn my tips and techniques, this workshop is for you. Booking is available via the top menu or by clicking here!
I have also chosen to stock some more brands, brands that I personally work with and love. These are Two Fussy Bloke Rollers, Prima Redesign Transfers, WoodUbend Moulding & Posh Chalk Artisan Range. All the brands I stock I use on my personal design work, commission work and will available to use during my workshops.
It’s still early days for my little Studio/Shop in Wetherby, as I didn’t get off to a good start initially with Covid but, I’m hoping more people will get to know where I am and what I do. If you in Wetherby, pop in and see me!
Finally, thank you to all my customers, without you I wouldn’t be where I am now. I’ll update you all soon with more developments. Keep watching my social media posts too.
Michelle x
