When I started JATK in 2012, I used to knit only my favourite things – headbands, hair clips and brooches – accessories are indispensable in my life! The more I have the better, but I always try to find what I call “special” ones. When I came across Sugar & Vice on Instagram, I just loved their super original acrylic necklaces AND the fact that they happily make custom items (like me)! You can have all the accessories in the world, but nothing beats a unique statement necklace…

I asked Sarah from S&V a few questions about her work and selected pictures of my favourite items. Plus scroll down to check out the personalised necklace they made for my best pal!

– Tell us about Sugar & Vice

Sugar & Vice is in its sixth year now, we started off small selling jewellery on myspace and bigcartel and then steadily grew to the point where, although it’s still run by just two of us, we now own three laser cutters for making jewellery and have just launched a clothing line.

 

– What inspires when you create new items?

Absolutely everything! We get inspiration from little things in every day life and sometimes even from the acrylic itself! We recently got a beautiful radiant acrylic and we’ve been making items based on what it reminds us of. The beauty of working with this medium is that we can have an idea, create a design and see it come to life all within the same day. It’s very exciting.

– What are your favourite S&V creations?

That’s a tough one! I’m proud of them all, although constantly striving to be better does mean it’s very tempting to tweak past designs based on what we’ve learnt. The whole thing is a never-ending process and there’s always work to be done. Specifically though, my personal favourites are the Magpie, the Pug and the Dia De Los Muertos necklaces. I love statement pieces so the bigger, more eye catching pieces always end up being my favourites. Go big or go home, right? :) 

– What piece of advice would you give to creative people who’d like to start selling their work?

Just go for it. Don’t overthink it and don’t hesitate. Be cautious where money is concerned because it’s still a very tough financial climate for small businesses but don’t let it stop you if you’ve got the passion for it. It’s a 7 day a week job and can become a little all consuming at times but it’s incredibly satisfying work and I wouldn’t trade it for anything!

Here is the amazing custom order they designed for my friend Victoria (a tribute to her own jewellery brand which I’ll tell you more about soon!):

I am yet to decide which piece to get for myself – I love so many of them! :)

Check out Sugar & Vice’s jewellery and clothing on their website http://www.sugarandvicedesigns.com and also on Etsy http://www.etsy.com/shop/sugarandvicedesigns Sugar & Vice have a second Etsy store in which they provide other companies with charms and supplies to make their own jewellery (clever idea!) http://www.etsy.com/shop/svcharms