Winnie’s Walk

Carol Marsh Nonsisa Handcrafted Jewellery

How long have you been making jewellery?

After a lifetime without pierced ears, three years ago I had my hair cut short and my ears were suddenly crying out for decoration, so I began designing my own earrings!

Where are you based?

Having built a career in graphics in Buckinghamshire my family and I decided to move to Devon, and we found a house we loved near Chagford on Dartmoor.

Where does the name Nonsisa come from?

I was working as a signwriter in a Sardinian holiday resort. On one occasion I was asked to paint a name on a boat. It was the weekend and there were few staff at the shipyard. I found someone who was able to show me the boat. I asked the name and he replied ‘nonsisa’. I did the work only to discover later that wasn’t the name afterall. Nonsisa means ‘I don’t know’ in Gallurese, the local dialect!!! Luckily the owner had a sense of humour, loved the story, and changed the boat’s name to ‘Nonsisa’!

What is your jewellery made from?

Its made from polymer clay, metallic flakes, glazes and Tibetan beads.

Why did you choose these particular materials?

Polymer clay is easy to work with, is readily available in many colours and can be fired in a domestic oven. The metallic flakes give an antiqued, industrial edge.

Do you specialise in any particular type of jewellery?

I want my jewellery to be bright and cheerful, uplifting and easy to wear.

What are you influenced by when creating pieces?

I’m influenced by the colours and beauty of Dartmoor. Also the sea inspires me. The turquoise ocean, blue sky (yes, I’m only inspired when the sun shines!!!) and sparkling waves. I find I’m replicating these colours often.

Which part of the creative process do you like the most?

Working with clay is wonderfully tactile. I love the unpredictability of the swirling patterns created when two to three coloured clays are blended together. I love the smoothness of the flakes. I’m constantly getting excited by new ideas. Its such fun seeing a lump of clay becoming something beautiful.

Can you describe a typical day?

I’m not a morning person but I do try!! First thing I’ll reply to emails, then my husband and I will take the dog for a walk and get a coffee in Chagford. I can also post orders I’ve completed. The afternoons are spent fulfilling orders, updating my website and creating new designs.

Do you have any plans or ambitions as a jeweller?

I’d like to expand and reach more people with my website. I’m also hoping to hold a regular Craft Fair in Chagford. Details will be on my website soon.