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After winning The 2019 Abbey Scholarship I was invited to partake in a monthly blog for Abbey England, talking about the ups and downs of business and the saddlery industry. Abbey England is one of my main suppliers of hardware and leather. Check our their website HERE.
To read the original post you can find it HERE.
Hi all,
This month has been a big step forward for me. Thanks to my QEST funding I went on my first two courses; a week harness making with Frances Roche (including a day in the Royal Mews for some fitting) and a week with John McDonald who showed me how to make my first ever collar. It always shocks me how even spending a single day watching someone work, whether they be a saddler a harness maker, or even a coachmaker can provide you with a variety of different tools, techniques and a new perspective on solving the little “niggles” which you just haven’t figured out the solutions to yet. I always love these trips to England as I somehow wriggle my way into lots of workshops and chatting with lots of people!
I talked last time about CPD and going on courses, but this week I’m going to encourage you to find a master, a mentor, a co-conspirator whilst you work on your projects. As the saying goes “two heads are better than one”. Our trade gets a bad name for people being secretive and unhelpful. There are many stories of people burning pattern books and keeping their list of suppliers hidden. This may have been true in the past but I’m going to tell you now- this is probably describing 1% of the trade. Most people are helpful and encouraging and want to see you do well. I’ve been very lucky to crash into a few workshops and spend a whole day watching, listening and learning.
HOWEVER- and I will stress this point: Masters aren’t stupid. They know who is coming to learn and share and those who are looking to have everything handed to them on a plate. I’ve walked out of some workshops with heaps of patterns, suppliers and even needles. Other times I’ve walked out with a bruised ego and a list of things to practice. Both are equally useful and worth pursuing. When you’re invited to someone’s workshop go with plenty of questions, an open mind and a notebook. Just remember to not become a member of that 1%. Share what you’ve learnt, answer questions and let others know about a new thread or tool you’ve been using, Whilst I won’t be able to give much back to all the masters and mentors who have taught me so much, I’m going to make sure to always pass on what I have learnt to others in honour of their kindness and generosity Until then I’ll be making the tea, sweeping the floor and bringing plenty of biscuits!
Till next time
L
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