New in the shop

Samantha Robertson has made these new ceramic brooches priced  between £6 and £10 depending on size.

Justine Jenner has delivered more brightly coloured mugs to the shop.

I've not stocked ceramic brooches before and it will be interesting to see how they sell. The price makes them an ideal little gift for a friend who appreciates an individual, contemporary look.

Justine Jenner's work seems to divide into three very different looks: Grey speckled, sea colours and bright inside. Again, a look that's very 'now'.

Since the start of tv's The Great Pottery Throw Down there is a renewed interest in ceramics generally and many more people wanting to take up the craft. Samantha Robertson, who teaches pottery in Farnham tells me there is a waiting list for her classes.

I also enjoy the educational Painting Challenge on Sunday evenings. These programmes make us want to have a go to see what we could (or could not!) achieve... Those programmes also make us appreciate that it's not easy. Every craft demands dedication and the willingness to practice, practice, practice. But with determination and flair, doing anything well is so rewarding!