It is I, Karen, the one woman metal weaver. But how did I get here?
In the beginning...there was a desire to create something special for my partner - he will now be referred to as Mr Maille. I sat armed with a pair of pliers and a bag of rings and an online tutorial. I made a Helm’s Weave chain for him. He loved it, of course he did I made it. I was not satisfied with just this one creation (I’ve been known to be a bit obsessive), and quickly I taught myself a few more weaves.
More supplies were purchased, more weaves were learnt, and more pieces made their way to the bedside cabinet. Mr Maille finally had enough and said I needed to do something with all the bracelets, necklaces etc that were competing for space next to his favourite coffee cup. I’d shown a few pieces to friends who were supportive and liked my new obsession. So I had one of those brave moments where I decided to try my hand at selling my wares. It worked!
After four and a half years trading as Chainmaille and Charms, I decided it was just too cutesy for me (I’m not a very cutesy person :-\ ) and in 2019 WraithMaille was born.
Since its inception, WraithMaille has co existed alongside being a mum to Mini Maille. It's not always easy and sometimes I have to take moments when I can. Like here <- , you can just see Mini Maille in the background napping.
So really, WraithMaille is no longer just me. It's become a real family business with me doing the making, Mr Maille being a whizz at shows and driver (if you want to see where you can come and see me in person, check out the events page
here ), and Mini Maille following in my footsteps and trying to 'help' either making or at shows too.
As for what the future will bring? 2020 is shaping up to be bigger than ever with our first shows outside of Kent, this website, and the support of all you guys. So all I can say is 'watch this space' and subscribe to keep up to date with all the happenings and new products at WraithMaille, as well as subscriber only deals ;-) .
UPDATE December 2020/January 2021 - The business is expanding and is now offering supplies to other chainmaillers and jewellery makers with the hope of being a 'one stop shop' for people. This co-exists with my makes and events, when they restart.
UPDATE August 2021 - I am no longer working alone! Mr Maille is joining the team full time and will be taking over the supplies side to allow me to focus on making, events and teaching others.