about
The INKubator is a ten-month, part-time jewellery programme designed to inspire, transform and empower your creative practice. Led and designed by professional makers, it brings together hands-on skills training, business development, and creative mentoring to help you grow as both an artist and an entrepreneur.
You’ll gain advanced technical skills, sharpen your business mindset, and build lasting confidence in your work. Through monthly workshops, 1-2-1 mentoring, and being based in a fully equipped studio, you’ll connect with a supportive community of jewellers and industry professionals, all ready to share their experience and help you thrive.
If you’re ready to take your practice to the next level, the INKubator gives you the skills, focus, and network to make it happen.
“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! If you are swithering about applying, I would urge you to just go for it! You will not regret it.”
what’s it all about?
Skills development
Skills training sits at the heart of the INKubator Programme. Led by a Master Goldsmith and Setter with over 30 years of industry experience, the curriculum is carefully designed to strengthen existing ability and build technical precision.
INKers receive direct, hands-on tuition supported by professional insight, demonstrations, and guided experimentation. Each session focuses on developing both creative expression and refined bench skills, helping participants gain confidence in tackling complex techniques and ambitious designs.
The Programme is structured to ensure steady progression, with each module building on the last. As the year unfolds, INKers experience a natural increase in challenge and intensity, encouraging growth, resilience, while creating pride in their craft. By the end of the ten months, participants leave with a deeper understanding of their own making process and the confidence to take their practice forward.
“Moving to Glasgow for the INKubator was one of the best career decisions I’ve made. After taking a break from my practice, I felt lost and lacking in confidence, but the Programme’s supportive environment and skilful teaching have helped me regain my focus. Under the guidance of expert tutors, the quality of my work has definitely improved, and I’ve acquired a wide range of new skills. The welcoming atmosphere, combined with the passion and generosity of the other studio jewellers has truly exceeded my expectations.”
Professional Development
Professional development is a key component of the INKubator Programme. Delivered by highly experienced professionals with backgrounds in finance, marketing, and creative facilitation, these sessions provide a strong foundation for managing and growing a sustainable jewellery business.
Participants explore topics such as branding, pricing, bookkeeping, social media, and time management, gaining a clear understanding of how to balance creativity with business strategy. Guest sessions from industry specialists offer real-world insight into how successful makers operate and overcome challenges.
Our aim is to make the ‘business side’ of creativity feel accessible and empowering, giving you the tools to streamline admin tasks, improve efficiency, and focus your energy on making. By the end of the programme, INKers are equipped with the confidence and practical know-how to run their creative practice with purpose and professionalism.
creative feedback
Creative feedback is a key part of the INKubator learning experience. Our approach is designed specifically for jewellers to ensure feedback is fair, inclusive, and constructive. Each session provides a safe and structured environment where INKers can present their work, discuss ideas, and reflect on their creative progress. Participants are guided through a process that encourages thoughtful discussion, mutual respect, and active listening.
A central principle of our approach is artist-led feedback: the maker remains in control throughout, setting the tone and focus of the conversation. This structure allows for meaningful dialogue without judgment, helping each INKer gain fresh perspectives and confidence in their own voice.
By the end of the Programme, INKers develop stronger self-awareness, communication skills, and the ability to give and receive feedback with purpose, which is an invaluable asset in any creative practice.
“The community is the best part of being an INKer. We are all at different stages of our jewellery journeys, each with unique experiences, and I love how this diversity has broadened my perspective on what it means to be a jeweller. Being an INKer has opened my mind to various paths and has shaped my brand into something I am genuinely proud of.”
Hive Mind
Collaboration and community are central to the INKubator experience. We believe that creativity flourishes when makers support one another, which is why we nurture a Hive Mind, a connected network of peers who share knowledge, experience, and encouragement throughout the Programme.
Our studios are intentionally designed to be safe, inclusive, and welcoming spaces where everyone can be themselves without fear of prejudice or judgment. We recognise that some participants may find group settings challenging, and we provide flexibility and individual support to ensure everyone feels secure and valued.
Through shared learning, open dialogue, and collective problem-solving, INKers gain confidence not only in their practice but also in their ability to collaborate and communicate effectively. The relationships built during the Programme often continue long after it ends, forming a lasting professional network rooted in respect, empathy, and shared passion for the craft.
one to one Mentoring
Mentoring is a cornerstone of the INKubator Programme. Each INKer is paired with a mentor whose experience and outlook best complement their individual needs. While some mentors are jewellers, others bring expertise from wider creative or business sectors, ensuring a well-rounded and personalised approach.
Participants receive a minimum of ten hours of mentoring across the ten-month period, with flexibility to meet in person or online. We recommend at least one session per month to allow time for reflection and steady progress.
Mentoring sessions provide a confidential and supportive environment to discuss ideas, challenges, and achievements. They encourage INKers to set goals, evaluate progress, and gain clarity on both creative direction and business aspirations.
This relationship often becomes one of the most rewarding aspects of the Programme. It’s a professional partnership built on trust, understanding, and shared enthusiasm for creative growth.
“My main goal going into the INKubator was to become a full time jeweller and really define my style and brand. The Programme was so invaluable for my business and career as a jeweller. I was super excited to keep developing my skills and see how much I progressed in the year. Don’t hesitate… if you’re in two minds, just know that it’s going to be an incredible investment in your career. So anyone thinking about it…
DO IT!!!! APPLY!!! JOIN US!!!”
If you choose to be an In-House INKer, at the start of your journey you will take part in a three day residential trip to Vanilla Ink The Smiddy to get to know your fellow INKers and Programme Leaders, alongside learning what to expect, meet our team up in The Smiddy and to generally have fun! You’ll take part in fun activities and probably end up wielding a hammer at some point down the line!
events and Networking
Developing strong professional networks is a key outcome of the INKubator Programme. Over the ten months, participants engage directly with a range of designers, creatives, and entrepreneurs through various opportunities. These informal yet insightful conversations allow INKers to learn from experienced practitioners, gain valuable industry insight, and build confidence in discussing their own work.
Vanilla Ink facilitates introductions to key organisations and professionals who can support your continued development beyond the Programme. Networking events, group outings, and studio visits are arranged throughout the year to help expand your professional circle and expose you to current trends and opportunities within the wider creative sector.
Highlights include our Creative Speed Dating event, a lively and engaging opportunity to present your ideas to successful creatives, receive feedback, and ask questions in a relaxed setting.
EXHIBITION
The INKubator Programme concludes with a professionally curated exhibition, giving INKers the opportunity to present their final collections to a public audience. This event marks both a celebration and a launch, with it being a chance to showcase new work, demonstrate technical and creative growth, and connect with potential buyers, collaborators, and industry representatives.
In preparation for the exhibition, participants receive guidance on display, pricing, presentation, and customer engagement to ensure a confident and professional showcase. The event also serves as a valuable networking opportunity, encouraging dialogue between makers, peers, and supporters of contemporary jewellery.
Completion of the Programme is not an ending but a beginning. INKers leave with enhanced technical ability, business knowledge, and personal confidence, alongside a lasting network of creative peers and mentors. As part of the wider Vanilla Ink community, graduates continue to benefit from ongoing opportunities, collaborations, and connections that support their continued growth and success.
the 2026 programme
This is the ultimate learning experience! You will become one of us for the duration of the Programme, being given 24-hour access to Vanilla Ink with your very own bench, situated in the purpose-built INKers Studio of our wonderful premises in the East End of Glasgow.
Each of our Skills Development sessions will be delivered in person by our Master Goldsmith, where you will get the chance to enjoy a low tutor-to-student ratio, ensuring the best teaching experience. Alongside this, you will be given access to several of our online videos relating to the Skills Development subject.
Skills sessions are delivered fortnightly [on average], meaning INKers are expected to fully commit to their experience and immerse themselves in the Vanilla Ink family environment. You’ll get to know the other Residents, Tutors and staff and become a part of our team cohort here alongside your fellow 2026 INKers.
In total, this gives you workshop access for a full year [Jan - Dec], access to shared tools and equipment, all sessions of our Skills Development workshops, each of our Professional Development workshops, ten hours [minimum] of one-to-one mentoring, all our in-person Meet the Maker events, three critical feedback sessions, and various networking and showcasing events. Across the ten months, you will spend approximately 100 hours in Vanilla Ink [not including time using the workshop for your own practice].
Don’t forget becoming a 2026 INKer includes the INKubator Away Weekend in January at The Smiddy. Oh, and you’ll be the proud wearer of a cracking INKer hoodie!
“It literally covers everything and is truly comprehensive. Every workshop I have participated in has been a fantastic learning experience. I learned more in the ten months at Vanilla Ink than I did whilst studying jewellery design at art school! Their team of highly skilled professionals are not only extremely knowledgeable in their field but also dedicated to providing top-notch advice and support.”
eligibility
what we need from you
The INKubator Programme is open to jewellers who are committed to their craft and are actively pursuing a livelihood within the industry. We want to work alongside passionate makers who are looking to develop a career within the jewellery world and for designers who execute a high level of contemporary craft. Let's get one thing out the way immediately though: it really does not matter what stage of your career you are at - the INKubator is for you! It is not simply aimed at recent graduates or jewellers at the beginning of their career, this Programme is 100% aimed at all jewellers, no matter what level they are at or how long they have been doing it. You may well have been running your practice for several years but are looking to enhance your skills and take your business to the next level.
TO BE ELIGIBLE, YOU MUST:
Have completed your education/training [formal education or training IS NOT necessary]
Have the desire to develop your practice into your sole occupation
Have a portfolio of recent/current work
Commit to the 10-month Programme
Provide an up-to-date creative C.V.
Commit to at least 8 hours per week developing your own practice
criteria
what do we look for in our inkers?
Want to apply to be an INKer? First, we will need you to fit the eligibility criteria - but how will you go about grabbing our attention so that you stand out from the crowd? If last year is anything to go by, we will receive far more applications than there are available places! Remember, positions are limited to only TEN INKers per year. You'll be based in our purpose-built INKers Studio here at VIHQ, with the studio having ten benches. It’s up to you to appear professional, clear with your aims and eager to begin! After submitting your application, we will thoroughly review each one and then invite a select few who impress us most for interviews.
CRITERIA FOR in-house APPLICATION:
Quality of work
Originality
Strong ideas
Passion and dedication
Quality of images
Open to new ideas and development
Applications
The application is an online, real-time form. To avoid disaster, we recommend drafting your answers in a separate document, then copying them across in case your browser times out or doesn’t save. We’ll ask about relevant training (formal education isn’t required) and where you’re based, but what is really important to us is who you are. Please consider your answers carefully as they will help us understand your commitment, quality and aspirations. We use your answers and interview to determine your mentor so we can offer you the best and most tailored support.
if you would like to see the application questions in advance, click here to download our handy document
If you have any questions at all regarding the INKubator, what’s involved, or the application process, please get in touch!