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Simplicity in Motion
Fire Mountain Gems and Beads' Jewelry-Making Contest 2010 featuring Crystal
Finalist |
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Meet the Designer-Artist
Where do you live?
Loveland, Colorado
Describe your artistic style.
I don't believe I have a specific style, as of yet, because there are so many avenues to explore. However, I do like working with the crystals because of the brilliance of their sparkle, from the large crystals that have a bold sparkle right down to the small 2mm's which seem to whisper.
What inspires you as a designer-artist?
It's the bead or beads themselves, the possible color combinations and the satisfaction I get from creating.
What materials do you most enjoy working with?
I enjoy working with crystals and argentium silver. I have recently started working more with gemstones and introducing chainmaille into my designs. I'm certain that it isn't going to stop here.
What is the name of the piece you submitted with your success story?
Simplicity in Motion Necklace
What inspired this design?
The unusual shape of the keystone bead itself.
How did it come together?
I was arranging the keystone beads together in different shapes that were obvious to me and I wanted a design that was different. I happened to arrange them into a circle and wondered if I could come up with a way to connect the circles together and this particular design defined itself from there.
Share Your Background
When and how did you begin making jewelry/beading?
I'm relatively new to the beading world. About seven years ago, I was perusing in a craft store and noticed how unique the crystal sliders were. I purchased several sets along with some elastic and started making bracelets. I enjoyed it so much that it has blossomed into something much greater and I look forward to where it will take me in the future.
Who introduced you to beading?
Myself.
How did you discover Fire Mountain Gems and Beads®?
When my interest in beading started, I obtained several beading magazines, such as Bead and Button magazine. There was an ad for Fire Mountain Gems and Beads, so I went to the website and I couldn't believe the assortment of items that were available. Fire Mountain Gems continues to be one of my mainstays for beading supplies, design ideas, tips and tricks.
What other hobbies do you have?
I enjoy decorating my house, some ceramic painting but mostly jewelry-making.
Beading Success
What role does jewelry-making play in your life?
Jewelry-making is currently a hobby, but I am broadening my horizons. I try to work with my designs as often as I can because working with beads gives me a sense of well-being, satisfaction and amazement.
If you used jewelry-making as a way to bring in income, how are you selling yourself and your jewelry?
In the past, I was making jewelry for family and friends. Because I enjoy the creating jewelry so much, I have decided to bring my creations to a much bigger audience; therefore, a website is in the making. This is the first beading contest I have entered and I am excited about the anticipation of attending craft fairs and markets.
Do you participate in any charity fundraisers?
I participated in a couple of fundraisers. One was seven years ago when my son-in-law was deployed to Iraq. I made slider bracelets in red, white and blue to help raise money to send care packages to our troops in Iraq. The other fundraiser was that I developed a crocheted rope necklace with paws in it for Canines for the Cure.
Any advice for aspiring jewelry-artists?
Research, research, research. Gain knowledge and enjoy the passion. |
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