Finn was diagnosed with Autism when they were 16 - that diagnosis changed everything. Suddenly, everything clicked into place. Those struggles to fit in, with making and keeping friends, the stresses of social situations - all explained. Not just for Finn, but for Finn's brother too. And later for me, their dad and other family members. We thought everyone felt the same way we did but were better at coping with it, or hiding it. It was a huge relief to realise there were reasons behind the way we felt and behaved. Now our days are spent being ourselves, not trying to be 'normal'. We are truly an Autistic Family!



Having an Etsy shop is absolutely perfect for us! No stressful telesales or face to face communication. Instead we let our products do the talking. That hypersensitivity and attention to detail that we have? Actually, it's a bonus in this setting as we make sure each and every ring is closed properly, snugly and feels good against the skin. Here, we can make our pretty things and sell to all you lovely people around the world.



What we offer has evolved as our business has grown - having been the odd one out more times than we can count, we understand the importance of finding somewhere inclusive. Have you ever experienced that sinking feeling, when you've spotted something that's beautiful and gorgeous that you'd just love to wear, before realising it didn't come in your size? Well, so have we (first thing that pops into my head is our ongoing battle to buy jeans in a petite leg length when the rest of us isn't quite so petite!). We have male friends who struggled to find the pretty things they wanted to wear, and trans girls and non-binary people who couldn't find anything in their size. Lots of people mentioned wanting collars that looked pretty, or could be discreet enough to wear out in public in front of people that may not understand their unconventional lifestyle. So, now our bracelets come in sizes 6-9.5", our necklaces and collars up to size 28" and we are always happy to customise further, where possible, allowing our customers to choose the colours, clasps and lengths that suit them and their loved ones.



Finn plans to make and sell art, textiles and anything else that takes his fancy, now that he's finished with college - you'll be able to find his creations at www.etsy.com/shop/ItsANorthernThing . In the meantime I'm mainly making chainmaille which I love, I'll say that again - I love making chainmaille! So many weaves, so tactile and so much fun to make.



Joanne and Finn





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