Sparkly new: Start-up business looks on bright side of life

Two Toowoomba locals have started a new business to teach others new skills and distract people when stressed or anxious.

BRIGHT IDEA: Neecy Curtis (left) and Mel Nossiter have started new business Nemel and Co. Picture: Nev Madsen.

IT’S been a stressful 12 months for many as the world has battled pandemics, social isolation and mental health.

Now two Toowoomba residents have started a business to make life a little bit brighter.

When friends Mel Nossiter and Neecy Curtis entered the first Covid lockdown last year, the pair began looking for a creative outlet to de-stress.

Discovering a newfound love for resin art and DIY jewellery, the duo began thinking about how others could benefit from the calming activity but might be struggling to source the materials.

Recently launching new small business Nemel and Co, the pair’s start-up specialises in resin jewellery kits.

“When Covid-19 and all the lockdowns happened it was something no one could have expected and anxiety levels were on the increase,” Ms Nossiter said.

“For me personally I’ve always found doing something crafty to be a really great outlet for reducing stress so I started looking at different hobbies I could do at home to take my mind off things.

“When I started looking into making my own resin jewellery, I found it was quite expensive and you could only buy things in bulk and I started thinking about all the people out there who would love to try it but didn’t have the ability or money to buy products in the quantities that were available.”

BRIGHT IDEA: Neecy Curtis (left) and Mel Nossiter have started new business Nemel and Co. Picture: Nev Madsen.

With four different options available, kits include a two-part resin, silicone earring, bracelet and necklace pendant moulds, glitter, pigment powders and metallic leaf foil.

Sterling silver earring hooks, jump rings, pendant hooks, hypo-allergenic surgical steel studs, glue, measuring and mixing cups, mixing sticks and gloves are also included.

Passionate about supporting local, the business owners said they have used Toowoomba suppliers and Australian made products where possible too.

“The kits we found didn’t have everything you needed to make a full set of earrings so we’ve formulated kits with all the materials and enough to make at least 18 pairs of earrings,” Ms Nossiter said.

“It’s a lot of fun and you’ll end up with something beautiful and it gives you a real sense of pride when people compliment you’re jewellery because you get to tell them that you made it.

“Whether you like fun sparkles or classic monotones, there are a lot of different styles you can make through the one kit.”

The small business co-owners said they are also looking into selling handmade jewellery and resin kit materials separately.

Resin jewellery kits are $129 each.

For more information visit nemelandco.com.au