We love the opportunity to get to know the jeweller behind the work and it has been lovely having an introduction to Karolina Baines who is one of our guest designers in this year’s Winter Showcase.

We hope you enjoy reading through Karolina’s answers, as much as we did!

Karolina Baines

1 – Please could you give us a brief introduction to your work and who you are? (Where are you based, inspirations, fun facts)

I am a jewellery designer and maker, currently living and working in Edinburgh, Scotland. I primarily work with enamel and etching and I am passionate about the tactile qualities of surfaces, patterns and colours. I view my designs as small sculptural forms that move with the body and invite an emotional, tactile connection with the wearer.

My work is deeply influenced by Japanese aesthetics, especially the beauty of textiles. I am fascinated by the way Issey Miyake, in his ‘Pleats Please’ collection, uses folding to create a sense of movement. This results in forms that are both geometric and organic – qualities I seek to bring into my own designs. I am also inspired by weaving and basketry traditions, especially the relationship between geometric patterns and organic shapes.

Through my work, I aim to create pieces that evoke a feeling of confidence, strength, sensitivity, serenity or playfulness.

2 – What led you to become a jeweller and how did you train/ learn your skills?

I have always been interested in art, but it became central to my life over the past ten years. I began with a Foundation in Art and Design at Edinburgh College, where I was encouraged to explore creative ideas across many disciplines. That experience and my passion for working in three dimensional forms, led me to pursue a BA Honours in Jewellery and Silversmithing at Edinburgh College of Art.

Both courses gave me the freedom to experiment and refine my interests, and they were deeply formative in shaping my approach to design. It was then that I realised how much I enjoy exploring different materials and the intimacy of wearable art.

3 – We love to hear about people’s workspaces- please could you describe where you work? (and introduce any workshop pets!)

I work in a bright and spacious studio situated within St Margaret’s House, a large art complex, on the northeast side of Edinburgh. The building houses around 250 studios and I love the vibrant community of artists working across a wide range of disciplines – painters, ceramicists, textile artists and sculptors. I have been based here for eight years now, and I share my studio with three other artists. It is a welcoming and calm space to work.

4 – What are the areas of your business that you enjoy the most?

Designing and making bring me the greatest joy. I love working with my sketchbook – mark-making, exploring patterns, colours, textures, experimenting with different materials and shapes – then creating paper models and watching them come to life in metal. I only wish I had more time for this creative process, as there are so many areas of the business to navigate and balance.

Still, the greatest reward comes when someone wears a piece I have made, when it becomes part of their story.

5 – What does a usual work day look like for you? (Do you work full- time/ part-time, how do you balance your week?)

I work in my studio part-time, as I have another job a couple of days a week. On my studio days, I usually start with a quiet, slow morning – I exercise or go for a short walk. I commute by bike, which is a lovely way to spend time in nature, especially with Edinburgh’s great cycle paths. I tend to begin work in the late morning and often stay into the late evening, as I enjoy the calm atmosphere in the studio after hours. It is not always easy to balance everything, but I am trying to find a rhythm that supports both my creativity and my wellbeing.

6 – What are you looking forward to most during Autumn and in the run up to Winter and Christmas?

I love autumn, the atmosphere, the colours and the smell in the air. I’m taking part in a couple of Christmas fairs this season, including one held in the art complex where my studio is. It always has a wonderful energy, and being there in person, connecting with visitors, is something I really value.

After that I’m looking forward to quiet moments over Christmas with my family, especially after the busy weeks beforehand.

Thank you Karolina for taking the time to answer all of our questions. Karolina’s work is currently on display in the shop so please pop in to see Karolina’s full collection of work and a selection in our online shop.