Beyond the Bench

Motivation, Mindset and Magic for Handmade Jewellery Makers

Beyond the Bench is a quiet companion for handmade jewellery makers who love their craft, but sometimes feel tired, uncertain, or a little disconnected from the joy that first drew them to the bench.

This is not a book about doing more or pushing harder. It is for the in-between moments. The pauses, the doubts, the loss of momentum, and the small but steady wish to keep making in a way that still feels meaningful.

Through gentle reflection and lived experience, Beyond the Bench explores the inner landscape of jewellery making. Motivation, creativity, identity and care are woven together in a way that invites you to slow down, notice, and reconnect. It is a book to dip into, to return to, and to keep close by at the jewellery bench, offering a steady presence alongside your tools as your practice continues to unfold.

About the book

Beyond the Bench grew from time spent making, pausing, and paying attention to the inner experience that sits alongside creative work. The moments of doubt, the slowing of energy, and the wondering about how to keep making without losing heart. This book offers a place to pause, to breathe, and to reconnect with what first drew you to your craft.

Who is this for

It is written for jewellery makers who want their practice to feel enduring, meaningful and gently alive over time. Within its pages, you will find reflections that help you recognise what you are carrying, name what feels difficult, and approach your work with greater clarity and kindness. Rather than offering rules or instructions, the book invites curiosity, attentiveness and a little wonder. It encourages gentler ways to stay connected to creative work, so you can continue making with intention and care through the changing seasons of motivation and energy.

About the author

Toni-Maree Savage is an Australian artisan jeweller, writer and artist based in Brisbane, Queensland. She is the founder of Jewellery by Toni Maree, where she creates handmade jewellery inspired by nature, memory and meaning. She works from her home studio with a strong emphasis on considered making and emotional connection.

Her practice is shaped by long hours at the jewellery bench alongside study across fine art, psychology and writing. Beyond the Bench grew from her experience navigating doubt, fatigue, and the desire to remain connected to the joy of making.

Stay connected

Beyond the Bench will be released in 2026 as an ebook, a print book, and an audio version. If you would like to be notified when it becomes available and receive a short excerpt when it is ready, please provide your details below.