Hello, I’m Claire – jewellery designer, maker, workshop tutor and lifelong lover of beads, colour and all things creative.

Claire Bentley Creative grew from a simple belief: making something with your hands is good for you.

In a world where so much of our time is spent looking at screens, rushing from one thing to the next and juggling endless to-do lists, sitting down to make can give us permission to slow down. Crafting encourages us to focus on what’s in front of us, enjoy the process and experience the satisfaction of creating something ourselves.

That idea is at the heart of my collection of **creative craft kits and workshops**. I design projects that are colourful, enjoyable and achievable, with everything you need to get started and clear, illustrated step-by-step instructions to guide you along the way. You don’t need to consider yourself ‘creative’ or have lots of experience – the aim is simply to enjoy making.

My own creative story began with an old tin of jewellery, buttons and beads given to me by my grandmother. I was fascinated by its tiny treasures and soon became completely hooked on beads, jewellery and making things. That childhood obsession eventually led me to study Jewellery Design at Central Saint Martins in London and to a career in the jewellery industry spanning more than 30 years, designing for UK retailers and fashion brands as well as working as a freelance jewellery, graphic and branding designer.

But the inspiration behind the wellbeing side of Claire Bentley Creative comes from my mum. She began her career in occupational therapy and later taught embroidery for many years. She understood long before I did just how valuable working with your hands can be – giving you something to focus on, helping you switch off from everyday worries and providing a wonderful sense of achievement.

After losing Mum in 2024, continuing that idea through my own work became even more important to me.

Today, my craft kits and workshops bring together everything I love: **beads, colour, design, teaching and the simple pleasure of making.** Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon project, want to learn a new skill, need a little creative escape or simply fancy making something beautiful, I hope my kits encourage you to put everyday life to one side for a while and enjoy some time creating.

Because sometimes, doing something with your hands can be exactly what your mind needs.