Judy Land

Judy Land

Fire Mountain Gems and Beads' 2010 Jewelry-Making Contest Metal Clay, Metal Beads, Wirework and Chain Category

Bronze Medal Prize Winner

Category: Earrings

Meet the Designer-Artist


Where do you live?
Russell, Kentucky

Describe your artistic style.
I love fun, flowy, moving designs. I also love to create unique pieces which make the wearer feel happy and beautiful.

What inspires you as a designer-artist?
I love buying materials and playing around until a design idea takes place. Materials inspire my creativity.

What materials do you most enjoy working with?
I enjoy working with glass, metal and wood beads. I use Hemp, Gossamer floss and wire. Quality materials make a quality piece of jewelry.

What is the name of the piece you submitted with your success story?
Silver Sunshine Earrings

What inspired this design?
Sunshine always makes me smile. To have a wearable form of sunshine is inspiring and special. A warm, happy feeling is something everyone should experience.

How did it come together? For example, did you plan it out or did it define itself once you began working?
Silver Sunshine was originally planned as a bracelet, but as it came together, earrings were much better. The unique array of dangles really stand out and provide lots of movement.

Share Your Background


When and how did you begin making jewelry/beading?
I began making Indian pieces in the early '90s. I actually stopped for several years, then picked it up about three years ago. I haven't stopped since.

Who introduced you to beading?
I actually became attracted to beading due to a design book I found in a craft store. I bought the book and materials. Afterwards, I was hooked!

Do you have an artistic background?
My sister is the artist in the family. She oil paints beautifully. I, on the other hand, cannot draw. Beading is my artist outlet. I love to create!

How did you discover Fire Mountain Gems and BeadsĀ®?
A search engine from Yahoo. I went to the site and was excited at all of the materials there! It was like Candyland for a beading adult!

What other hobbies do you have?
I enjoy photography, scrapbooking, stencil painting and music.

Beading Success


What role does jewelry-making play in your life?
I love making jewelry. I'm not really successful yet, so it is a part-time hobby at the moment. I have so much fun creating, I lose track of time. I would love to become a successful jewelry artist!

If you used jewelry-making as a way to bring in income, how are you selling yourself and your jewelry?
I do have an online site where I have other pieces listed. It's on Etsy, at www.etsy.com/shop/calypso2

Do you participate in any charity fundraisers?
I would welcome the opportunity! It would be wonderful to support a cause in this way.

Any advice for aspiring jewelry-artists?
Have fun! There are many unique techniques in making jewelry. Find your own groove and make it happen. Life is too short, so enjoy it!