Olivia Slavinsky

Olivia Slavinsky

Fire Mountain Gems and Beads 2009 Beading Contest

Finalist

Meet the Designer-Artist


Where do you live?
Warren, Michigan

Describe your artistic style.
I see an article and if I like it I will try to learn the style.

What inspires you as a designer-artist?
Usually other designers.

What materials do you most enjoy working with?
13° Delicas and seed beads.

What is the name of the piece you submitted with your success story?
Jane's Garden

What inspired this design?
I like flowers and because it could be done without a loom.

How did it come together? For example, did you plan it out or did it define itself once you began working?
I planned it somewhat, but I had to change the colors from lack of finding her colors at FMG.

Share Your Background


When and how did you begin making jewelry/beading?
About 5 years ago I decided to make my own jewelry, because I could not find anything I liked in stores. Plus it was my daughter's wedding. I learned from reading and practicing taking apart and putting it back together again on my own.

Who introduced you to beading?
I have always loved sewing by hand and wanting to learn Native American beadwork so I would say Theresa Flores Geary.

Do you have an artistic background?
No, just by looking at things and trying new things.

How did you discover Fire Mountain Gems and Beads®?
Beadwork magazine plus they carry natural stones.

What other hobbies do you have?
Gardening, taking care of my grandchildren, and I'm going to try brush stroke painting. Oh yes, sewing.

Beading Success


What role does jewelry-making play in your life?
Hobby, if I'm not rushed it is relaxing.

If you used jewelry-making as a way to bring in income, how are you selling yourself and your jewelry?
Not yet but I am working on this.

Any advice for aspiring jewelry-artists?
Just keep taking it apart and putting it together again and get a book and read. And ask questions.