Fire Mountain Gems and Beads' Jewelry-Making Contest 2010 featuring Crystal
Finalist |
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Meet the Designer-Artist
Where do you live?
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Describe your artistic style.
I enjoy jewelry design using chainmaille, beads and colored wire. I sketch out my design ideas in color before creating them.
What inspires you as a designer-artist?
I am inspired by nature, circumstances and vacation destinations. However, many other things in life inspire me as well.
What materials do you most enjoy working with?
Jumprings, beads and wire.
What is the name of the piece you submitted with your success story?
12 Amethyst Bracelet
What inspired this design?
The book of Revelation, chapter 21, in the holy bible.
How did it come together?
I made the half Persian 4-in-1 bracelet with champagne colored rings and then added the cluster of amethyst crystals as a dangle.
Share Your Background
When and how did you begin making jewelry/beading?
Five years ago I saw a beautiful, colorful chainmaille bracelet, and I immediately began research to try to figure out how this bracelet was made and where to purchase the components.
Who introduced you to beading?
My Mom bought me a little beaded doll when I was a young girl and I developed an interest in crafting then, but it is only in the last five years that I have really learned about jewelry making and other crafts.
Do you have an artistic background?
Yes, I have been artistic since my childhood. I come from a family of artists.
How did you discover Fire Mountain Gems and BeadsĀ®?
During the research I did on how to make chainmaille jewelry, I discovered the Fire Mountain website and ordered a catalogue immediately. I have been hooked ever since. I continue to be amazed at all the different avenues of crafting. Besides great products, the FMG catalogues have a wealth of information in them.
What other hobbies do you have?
I enjoy sketching, painting, photography, crochet, the visual arts and electric guitar.
Beading Success
What role does jewelry-making play in your life?
It is a fascinating hobby which I hope to one day turn into a small business.
If you used jewelry-making as a way to bring in income, how are you selling yourself and your jewelry?
I have worked hard to get my creations published in crafting magazines. I have been honored to have my art, jewelry and photography published in numerous magazines in the UK, US and Canada. I have a shop on Etsy at www.etsy.com/shop/MailleManz
Do you participate in any charity fundraisers?
Not yet.
Any advice for aspiring jewelry-artists?
Explore all avenues of jewelry making. It is a vast and exciting industry!
View all of Wendy's designs in the Gallery of Designs. |