Meet the Maker: Yvonne Bolger Jewellery
Posted 07.10.21
Yvonne Bolger is a Jewellery Designer & Maker who works from her studio in Emo, Co. Laois. She designs and handcrafts her pieces in sterling silver and gold, taking inspiration from Ireland’s rich mythology and beautiful landscape. Her bespoke pieces are designed and created in a fully collaborative process with her clients. Browse Yvonne’s collections and purchase online at yvonnebolgerjewellery.com.
What's a typical day in the studio like for you?
I love a ‘To Do’ List even if the items on the list sometimes stay there for quite a time. So, I usually start the day with a plan of action. It can be difficult to strike the right balance between the creative aspects of my work and the necessary administrative jobs involved in running any small business. A typical day involves a bit of everything; hands-on work at my bench, promoting my pieces on social media, and the less exciting paperwork involved in keeping things running as smoothly as possible.
What do you like most about your work?
The absolute best part of my work is the way everything else on my mind melts away when I’m using my hands to create a piece or working on a new design. My bench really is ‘my happy place’. I also love the thought of my pieces being worn by real women who will give the design life by styling it in their own unique way.
What do you like least about your work?
Not enough hours in the day!
What's your favourite craft item in your home?
A small wooden carving that I brought home from a trip to Bali many years ago which has moved everywhere with me over the years.
What advice would you give someone who is considering this craft career?
Firstly, I would say that you need to really love the actual process of design and the hands-on making of your pieces. The thought of the wearer loving and finding meaning in your designs really is inspiring. The hustle of turning that love and inspiration into a business is the tough part.
What's your favourite time of the day?
I’m a nightbird so 8pm on suits me best.
How do you switch off?
I’m so lucky to live beside Emo Court Park & Woodlands which is the best place ever to walk the dog and calm the Soul. A good Netflix binge is pretty good too!
What's the first thing you do when you leave the studio?
Make sure the torch is off!
Favourite book?
Life after Life by Kate Atkinson.
Favourite film?
Lost in Translation.
Best concert you have ever been to?
Electric Picnic is the best every year.
Music when you're working?
Yes.