Welcome to the Indie Quarter!

Sue Blackwell’s book sculptures have the sort of fragile beauty that is both compelling and disturbing. She describes her processes as ‘irreversible’ and ‘destructive’ to ‘reflect on the precariousness of the world we inhabit and the fragility of our life, dreams and ambitions’.

The story telling aspect and the mellow lighting of some of the pieces lend an almost magical quality. I love the idea of the characters coming to life and escaping the confines of their pages.

To view more of Sue’s work visit www.sublackwell.co.uk.

Ornamental Things is four years old this Summer. They are celebrating in style with new designs, a new studio and a super duper sale. There’s a whopping 30% off everything on their website. Just type in FOURYEARS during the checkout process. The sale ends on 10th July.

So what are you waiting for? www.ornamentalthings.com

Manchester Craft Mafia is a group of crafty businesses dedicated to supporting and sharing a creative, maverick spirit of crafting in Manchester, Greater Manchester and beyond. They’re craft and proud and looking for new members.

There are a number of benefits of joining the group, including promotion through their website and press releases, supplier discounts, member events and much much more.

For more information and to apply, go to www.manchestercraftmafia.com.

Illustrator Sarah McNeil has created these colourful bird brooches. Each one is hand drawn, hand cut and carefully pieced together. Many of the birds are native to New Zealand, Australia and South America and their intricate markings have been faithfully reproduced.

Shop at www.funiscool.etsy.com.

Many moons ago I was a temp. And it was bloomin’ hard work, I can tell you. But also kind of fun. I was always meeting new people and got to work on a variety of interesting projects. Jewellery design company Temporary Secretary definitely embodies this side of the job. The spirit is cute, fun and affordable. Think quirky sailorette earrings, cup cake pins and cutesy hair slides.

Go to www.temporary-secretary.com.