What exactly is the INKubator Programme?
“Everything about the INKubator is brilliant. The best people, the highest quality training, and the incredible support and mentoring. It’s been the best year of my jewellery-making life!”
Imagine a place where your love for jewellery meets structured learning, expert guidance, and a community that gets you. That’s the INKubator, a ten-month, part-time programme built to help makers refine their skills, grow their creative businesses, and find their place within a vibrant network of jewellers.
Maker-led and maker-designed, the INKubator weaves together technical training, professional development, mentoring, and community connection. It’s all about building confidence, finding your voice, and turning your creative practice into something that feels authentically you.
Skills Development
Skills are at the heart of everything we do. Under the guidance of our Master Goldsmith and Setter with over 30 years of experience, you’ll strengthen your technical ability, experiment with new techniques, and challenge yourself creatively. Each session builds naturally on the last, creating real, tangible progress over the year.
“The INKubator course has improved my work in ways I never expected. The technical skills I’ve learned have changed the way I work and massively improved my jewellery quality.”
Professional Development
Creativity thrives when it’s supported by a strong business foundation. You’ll gain practical tools and knowledge in branding, pricing, finance, and marketing, all delivered by professionals who understand the creative industries inside out. We’ll help you run your business with confidence [and maybe even enjoy the admin side!]
Creative Feedback
We’ve developed a unique, artist-led approach to feedback that’s fair, inclusive, and constructive. You set the focus and control the tone. These sessions help you see your work from new perspectives, grow in confidence, and learn how to give and receive feedback like a pro.
Community and Hive Mind
We are a hive of creativity, collaboration, and care. Our studios are safe, inclusive environments where everyone can be themselves. Whether you thrive in a group or prefer a quieter corner, you’ll find your people here. As the months unfold, you’ll build friendships, share ideas, and support each other through every challenge and win.
“Being part of a community of makers who are incredibly supportive has truly changed my life. It’s inspiring when others around me are creating too, it’s a feeling I haven’t had anywhere else.”
One-to-One Mentoring
Each INKer is paired with a mentor whose experience complements their goals, sometimes a jeweller, sometimes a creative from another field entirely. Across at least ten hours of mentoring, you’ll reflect, plan, and refine your direction with the guidance of someone who’s been there before.
Networking and Events
Throughout the year, we host Meet the Maker sessions, networking events, and industry Q&As. You’ll meet designers, creatives, and entrepreneurs who’ve carved their own path and learn how to carve yours. We even throw in a few surprises, including our crowd-favourite Creative Speed Dating.
The Exhibition
Your INKubator journey ends with a public exhibition and sales event, a celebration of your growth, your voice, and your collection. We’ll guide you through every detail, from display and pricing to presentation and promotion, so your work shines at its best.
“Moving to Glasgow for the INKubator was one of the best career decisions I’ve made. The supportive environment and expert teaching helped me regain focus and rediscover my confidence”
What’s New for 2026?
The INKubator has been running in this format for a few years now, and it really works… our INKers get results! But we’re never ones to rest on our laurels. We’re always refining, improving, and developing, listening carefully to feedback and shaping the Programme around the people who matter most: the INKers themselves.
Refined workshop structure with new guest tutors
Fresh opportunities for collaboration and peer projects
Expanded professional development sessions
Smaller cohorts for more one-to-one time
More in-studio socials, showcases, and pop-ups
Who It’s For
The INKubator is open to jewellers who are serious about their craft and ready to take that next step. You don’t need formal training, just a solid commitment to your practice and a willingness to learn, experiment, and grow.
Whether you’re a recent graduate, self-taught, or an experienced maker looking to refocus, if you’re ready to invest in yourself, this is for you.
“Being an INKer has opened up so many paths and has shaped my brand into something I am genuinely proud of!”
Key Dates
Applications are now open [wild applause]
Deadline: Midnight, Friday 6 December
Interviews: Tuesday 9 December [in person or online]
Programme runs: January to November 2025
Spaces available: 10
Interviews are relaxed and informal [we promise we don’t bite]. You’ll present your work for 10 minutes and chat with us for 20… easy!
Costs and Support
The INKubator fee reflects the real value of the Programme, covering all workshops, mentoring, and a year’s studio access. We work hard to keep costs accessible and offer payment plans or a 10% discount if you pay upfront.
As a beyond-profit social enterprise, every penny we make is reinvested into our community programmes, helping us continue to educate, inspire, and empower through jewellery.
What You’ll Leave With
By the end of the Programme, you’ll walk away with:
Advanced technical and creative skills
A stronger business mindset
Confidence in your craft and direction
A powerful network of peers and mentors
Real-world exhibition experience
And a lifelong place in the Vanilla Ink story!
Ready to Apply?
Download our 2025 INKubator Guide, read through the details, and get your application started.
If you’ve got questions, reach out, we’re always up for a chat.
“Don’t hesitate, if you’re in two minds, just know it’s an incredible investment in your career as a jeweller. So anyone thinking about it, DO IT!”