~ Giving a small kindness to others and the planet, via a happy mix of science and craft ~
Based in Bournville, Birmingham, Kelly makes luxury handcrafted soap.
How did your craft journey begin?
I started making handcrafted soap at the end of 2020 after I was made redundant during the pandemic and I wanted to show there was a better kinder way. I have always been passionate about sustainability and I wanted to do something that could help people start on a journey to reduce their impact on the environment. Making and selling soap seemed like a perfect place to start. Soap needs little packaging and is a simple first swap for people on the way to lessening their impact on the environment. It is a Small Kindness.
As a scientist I taught myself how to make soap utilising the traditional cold process method using sustainably sourced natural ingredients.
Can you describe how you feel when doing handcraft?
I find it incredibly mindful and calming to make soap – for me it is a happy mix of science and craft.
What do you enjoy the most from your crafter journey so far?
I enjoy the sense of satisfaction and joy I get when someone uses and loves my soaps and as they are all plastic free, palm oil free and made with sustainably sourced ingredients I also love the fact that I am helping people to tread more lightly on the planet
What are your challenges, past or present, on your crafter journey? And what made you persisting and keep going?
At the moment times are challenging and it is difficult for small businesses but I am certain that what I am doing is the right thing to be doing and I am determined to make it work, to show that small changes can make a big difference and that we could all do with a bit more kindness in the world. That’s what keeps me going and drives me forward every day.
About your participation in SoSoul market 😍
What do you look forward to at SoSoul market x Birmingham?
I am looking forward to meeting the other stallholders and learning about what they do and their craft. Talking about all things sustainability, making connections and learning about and from another culture, and how the local and Hongkongese communities can come together and support one another. Thank you for your support, and see you on the 13th!