I first got interested in making jewelry when I would go past a bead shop on my way to work and finally got up the courage to take a look inside. I was so overwhelmed, I left in about 5 minutes. I went back about a month later and picked up a flier on their classes and signed up for a beading 101 class that weekend. That was back in 2005 and I've been insatiably hooked since!
My early work was very simple wire wraps and bead stringing. I often joke and say I have jewelry A.D.D., because I have to constantly learn some new technique.First on the list was a step up from simple wire wrapping. Instead of just one briolette on an ear wire, I added clusters and a briolette dangling at the bottom. After stumbling upon a shop named http://julidadesigns.etsy.com I knew what I wanted to do next...intricut wire wrapping! I emailed the talented lady and soon became friends with the lovely proprietress Lisa Newton who gladly shared her wealth of knowledge with me.
Once I got the wire wrapping down, it was time to teach myself to solder. After many burns and swear words, I've finally mastered that..who knows whats on the list next, but I know I'll have a great time learning!
My favorite things to work with are sterling silver and ANY gemstone.I'm often inspired by nature, so I like to use natural , from the earth materials.I really don't know that I've found my style. I would rather not have a style and just be me. I'm not into it when someone makes a different version of the same thing over and over. I rarely have a design in mind when I start making something, I just let my muse take me where it wants to go.
Another dear lady that has inspired me greatly in my designs is Hee Soon Choi of http://skydreams.etsy.com Her jewelry is just jaw dropping and feminine. She has become a very dependable friend and mentor. I greatly value her knowledge of stones and color schemes.
My advice to anyone starting out would be to not let your doubts and fears get in the way of something you love to do. If I hadn't taken the plunge and put my shyness aside, I never would have walked into that bead store and discovered I might actually be good at something.
When not creating jewelry,I spend my time in the yard gardening or sitting by the pond with our dogs. I do occasionally clean the house.
I love to do commission work for clients. I do require at least 20% down to get your order started.All I need to know is if you have an idea in your head,stones you would like and type of metal and we can work from there.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me. I'll get back to you just as soon as I can!
