Welcome to Sunshine et Buttercups: Silver Clay Magic Comes to Poundbury

Poundbury has welcomed a delightful new addition to our creative community. After recently moving to Poundbury Farm Way, local resident and former Castle View nurse. Sarah Butterworth, has relocated her silver clay studio, Sunshine et Buttercups, to her home overlooking Poundbury Garden Centre.

What is Silver Clay?

For those unfamiliar with this fascinating craft, silver clay is a revolutionary material that combines fine recycled silver particles with an organic binder and water. "Silver clay is highly versatile to work with; when you have finished creating your piece it will be fired. The end result is precious pure silver to treasure," Sarah explains. The process transforms malleable clay into genuine pure silver jewellery through firing in a kiln—it's literally modern alchemy!

From Nursing to Silver Smithing

After taking early retirement from nursing in 2016, Sarah discovered silver clay by attending a workshop. "From then on I was hooked!" she says. What started as a personal passion quickly evolved into a teaching practice. "Three years on from this, I continue to extend my skills and love the satisfaction of sharing that enthusiasm with my students."

Her approach to teaching reflects her caring background: "I encourage all my students to create jewellery that they will treasure! The process can be as simple as using a mould or creating a fresh and imaginative piece from the clay. I am there to inspire my students and I believe there is absolutely no right or wrong in any creation."

The studio's reputation speaks for itself: testimonials on Sarah's website say her workshops and classes are a magical experience and have the WOW factor. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, and students feel happy and looking forward to their next visit.

What's on Offer

Sunshine et Buttercups provides various options for silver clay makers:

• Workshops and Classes: Perfect for beginners or those wanting to develop their skills. Open to all over 13 years (with a full paying adult), with wheelchair accessible facilities and a maximum of 4 spaces per session.

• 'Stay and Clay' Sessions: For experienced students who can hire studio facilities by the hour, including kiln use, with expert guidance on hand.

• Commissions: Custom pieces created to your specifications.

• Gift Cards and Jewellery: Available for purchase, with the full range displayed in the studio for viewing by appointment.

• Perfect Poundbury Fit

"Poundbury has a strong, welcoming community and is the perfect base for my silver clay business," Sarah says. The studio's personality-driven approach aligns beautifully with our community values. As she puts it: "I am told that I have a sparkly, joyful personality which shines through in my silver work." Her promise to new students is simple: "I guarantee you will leave with a smile and your fabulous silver creation!"

Getting Involved

Ready to try something new? Visit www.sunshineetbuttercups.com or the Facebook page www.facebook.com/sunshineetbuttercups to book fully accessible classes online, browse available dates, or get in touch with questions.

Sunshine et Buttercups is located on Poundbury Farm Way. Studio visits available by appointment only.

For more information on the varied shops and services offered in Poundbury, please visit the Living section on our Virtual Community Hub.