In 2009 Abby launched her business, working full time on her jewellery. Although daunting, a step that she has never regretted. She sells her finished jewellery as well as tutorials, materials and handmade tools through her website: www.abbyhook.co.uk. Born and raised in North London, Abby grew up surrounded by artistic people. Living in a very close community with a diverse mix of characters, she was able to try her hand at a whole array of crafts, from sewing to polymer clay modelling. Abby comes from a long line of artists, her Great, Great Grandfather was Frank Paton, well known for his realistic portrayal of both wild and domestic animals using oil paints, but he is probably more fondly remembered for his pencil etchings. Many other family members have continued the tradition of painting and drawing. Although she enjoyed drawing, she wasn't particularly good at it. Imagine her delight when she discovered the possibility of bringing things to life with wire! Inspired as a child to make jewellery when she was bought a bead weaving loom one Christmas, her style has changed dramatically over the years, from simple strung necklaces into what you see today. She has always loved working with semi precious stones and wire, for many years she has experimented with different ways of combining the two. Each piece has lots and lots of hand coiled wire, no glue or solder is used just ancient methods of coiling and weaving. Abby now divides her time between making jewellery and writing tutorials for her designs. She is also a freelance writer for 'Making Jewellery' magazine and has had several projects published.
