Wolven Crafts

The product rationale stemmed from one of Alex's hobbies, Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) - a fantasy role-playing game - where dice would often roll off tables during the board game.

Alex has developed multiple prototypes of his product using various recycled materials, sizes, and finishes. The product, a gaming dice tray, is used in the popular role-playing board game D&D where players create characters and embark on adventures in a fictional world.

The grant has helped fund the cost of materials and sessions at Ed’s Workshop – a community workshop, based in Carver House, Sheffield City Centre, for craftspeople who needs a supported workspace. It offers a space for individuals to explore their creative talents and develop their skills in making and selling artisan products.

"The grant is the only reason that I can afford to come here."

Alex, with the support of SWEF funding, significantly enhanced his woodworking skills, particularly in the realm of power tool operation. He gained proficiency in using tools like scroll saws, electric drills, lathes, bandsaws, and belt sanders. These skills allowed him to efficiently cut, shape, and finish his wooden creations. Beyond the technical aspects, Alex also developed a keen eye for design, experimenting with various materials and finishes. Through this comprehensive training, Alex is now well-equipped to take his business to the next level.

Alex has had multiple discussions with those around him regarding the development of his product and business, reaching out to local gaming locations where D&D is hosted to provide samples of his product. Moving forward, Alex has great entrepreneurial ideas to reach out to popular players and other industry experts to help further the marketing of his product.

Alex's journey was further supported by his mentor, Gayle Brogan, from Opportunity Sheffield, who has been working with Alex, who is autistic, since November 2023 in her role as a senior project support officer.

Gayle's guidance and encouragement played a crucial role in helping Alex refine his business plan and overcome challenges along the way.

She has seen a huge increase in Alex's focus since using the funding to support the development of his dice tray product. She stated: "It's incredible, it really is. His confidence has grown enormously.

“I’m overwhelmed by Alex's enthusiasm, the ideas he had and how he was able to develop those with a little bit of guidance."

With this confidence, Alex recently attended The Suit Works, a charity previously supported though SYCF funding, which aims to provide interview clothing, advice and mock-interview support. Having attended The Suit Works before an interview, Alex stated “it was the whole shebang, it means that I finally got a nice suit that fits me”. The suit helped Alex feel confident and he has since used the suit in various other occasions

Alex said: "I am often overambitious, and I can push myself too far. A lot of people like me just need a prompt." Alex uses the strengths and support of those around him to help his business grow and continue to constantly develop and improve his product.

“The process of applying for funding at SYCF was easy.” Along with support from Gail, Alex concentrated on his application, thinking very diligently about what the funding would be spent on. Having initially applied for £500 out of the £2,000 available, Alex is now looking to apply for the rest of the funding given the great impact that it has had on his ability to move his business forward.

“It has helped me realise what I needed to start my business, such as a bank account and future business plan. The funding really helped get the wheels going."