Britta Solstad

Britta Solstad

Dragonfly Pendant
Fire Mountain Gems and Beads' Contest 2010
featuring Metal Clay, Metal Beads,
Wirework and Chain
Finalist

Britta Solstad

Sunshine Ring
Fire Mountain Gems and Beads' Contest 2010
featuring Metal Clay, Metal Beads,
Wirework and Chain
Finalist

Meet the Designer-Artist


Where do you live?
Middletown, Rhode Island

Describe your artistic style.
Elegant, classic but with a fun, flirty flair.

What inspires you as a designer-artist?
Nature, environmental elements.

What materials do you most enjoy working with?
Sterling silver components, wire and Art Clay mixed with natural gemstones and high-quality crystals.

What is the name of the piece you submitted with your success story?
Dragonfly Pendant and Sunshine Ring

What inspired this design?
Objects found in nature complimented by the vibrant color of the crystals.

How did it come together?
It was planned with the details morphing into a whole as I went along.

Share Your Background


When and how did you begin making jewelry/beading?
Around 2005 I worked at a designer's studio assembling her pieces.

Who introduced you to beading?
As an only child, my mother encouraged me to explore all artistic opportunities as an alternative to less-productive past times such as TV, video games, etc.

Do you have an artistic background?
Very much so. Creating things has always been important to my Scandinavian family, painting, knitting and wood-working were things I grew up appreciating.

How did you discover Fire Mountain Gems and BeadsĀ®?
Internet and my previous employer.

What other hobbies do you have?
Knitting, sewing, photography, animals.

Beading Success


What role does jewelry-making play in your life?
Relaxing, creative outlet. I especially enjoy the awe experienced during a piece's evolution. Mainly hobby with future hope.

Do you participate in any charity fundraisers?
I have donated pieces to silent auctions to raise money for our local animal shelter. Every spring they have a Dog n' Designs art show.

Any advice for aspiring jewelry-artists?
Try to get to know someone already established in the craft show scene to help navigate through all the options.