March 2008

The Silver Garden site has now been open for 2 years, and the Jewellery site for one. I am delighted with the response from both of them, particularly as they have generated orders from the US, Australia and Europe - customers whom I could not have reached by any other means.

I have added 2 new tools to the Silver Garden since the site opened; the Sussex Rake and the Scythe. The Jewellery site has had new things added from time to time and I still have to add 2 new pendants, based on hearts, and a selection of cufflinks, which are becoming popular once more.

The downside, which I truly regret, is that, having held my prices steady for the last 5 years, the price of precious metals, particularly gold, has recently risen to such an extent that I have been forced to put the prices up. I like it no more than I'm sure you do, but unfortunately it has become necessary.

December 2008

I shall be at Winchester Christmas Market for 3 days only, 6th - 8th Dec., then I'm afraid that is the finish for this year. On 11th Dec. I go into hospital for a knee replacement, so that will then keep me out of the workshop until about the beginning of March, as far as I can guess.

All the galleries I supply have been stocked up with suufient work to last for some time, and I have work in stock, of course, myself. All work I have in stock will be available, both before and after Christmas; Malcolm will pack and post orders for me. Any new special orders for work not normally in stock, meanwhile, will be very welcome, on the understanding that I shall not be able to carry them out immediately. Wish me luck!

Best wishes to you all, existing customers and new,

Sheila Holness