A little about me and how Somber began

My name is Justin, and I've been a jeweller in the Macarthur region for over 10 years. Throughout that time, I've had the pleasure of creating jewellery for friends, family and clients, with plenty of interesting pieces and stories along the way.

Over the years, friends have often shown an interest in how jewellery is made. From asking questions about the tools to wanting to have a go themselves, their curiosity sparked an idea I'd had in the back of my mind for quite some time.

And that's where Somber Workshops began.

For me, jewellery making has always been about more than creating something beautiful. It's about getting hands-on, learning a few tricks of the trade, having a laugh along the way, and seeing what you can create from something as simple as a piece of metal.

There's something pretty special about trying something for the first time. A bit like learning to ride a bike, things might feel unfamiliar at first, but then something clicks. Suddenly, you're doing something you didn't think you could do, and that's a great feeling.

That's the experience I want to share.

I've always enjoyed teaching people the things I've learned, and I see teaching as an art in itself. Everyone learns differently, and I find genuine satisfaction in figuring out how to explain something in a way that makes sense to them.

One of the best parts is watching someone go from wondering whether they'll be any good at it to proudly holding up something they've made themselves. Sometimes all it takes is a little guidance, a bit of patience, and the chance to give it a go.

Somber is an opportunity for me to share a craft I love while continuing to grow, learn and meet some great people along the way.

More importantly, I want Somber to become something positive for our local Macarthur community. A welcoming space where people can step away from their everyday routines, try something different, connect with others and discover skills they may never have imagined learning.

You don't need any experience, and you certainly don't need to know your way around a jewellery workshop. That's what I'm here for!

Whether you're coming along with a friend, sharing an experience with someone special, or simply treating yourself to something different, the idea is to have fun, learn something new, and walk away with something you're proud of.