My next featured artist is a fantastic jewelry maker, Kirstie of Bonhomie Jewelry. Kirstie does beautiful metalwork, and recently started using enamel in her work – love it! Here’s a sampling of Kirstie’s work:

How did you pick your shop name?

I wanted a name that unusual, funky and relaxed. But hopefully memorable. I followed the usual process – wrote down a bunch of names and tried them out. I also searched etsy to be sure there wasn’t anything too close. This one stuck! Bonhomie: a disposition to be friendly and approachable – which I hope also defines my jewelry!

This may be obvious, but what is your medium? What kinds of materials and tools do you use?

I use Art Clay Silver – a clay which, after firing, becomes .999 silver (otherwise known as Fine Silver), sterling silver – sheet and wire – and copper. I haven’t yet branched out to any other type of metal. I really need to upgrade my tools but I make due with what I have. Most of my tools were made for beading and general light construction work. My husband is in contracting so many of his tools have gone “missing” I don’t have a kiln so I fire with either my propane or butane torch. Basically, I have nothing specialized to metalsmithing – just tools you’d find in your local hardware or craft store.

I use hardware store tools too – I don’t think I could live without my propane plumber torch!

Tell me a little bit about your process, from a new idea for a piece to the finished product.

I mentioned in my blog that I’m untrained. So it’s unusual that a piece will turn out EXACTLY as I’d planned in my mind. But I work with it until it becomes something I like. I may sketch out ideas or I might see another piece in a magazine or catalog that inspires me. I will let you in on my secret weapon: my husband! He’s a bit of an artist himself so he helps when I get stuck and has even designed a few pieces himself.

Any advice for aspiring artists/crafters in your medium?

Research, research, research. Take classes if you can. If you can’t, watch online tutorials and buy the books.

Any business advice for artists/crafters just starting to sell their work?

Again, research. I’m learning the hard way – I just kind of jumped into the business of jewelry. Define your target market and figure out how to reach them. Especially in a tough economy, you have to market wisely.

What is the last song/album you listened to? (I’m just curious, I love music.)

I’m the mom of a two-year-old. The last CD I listened to was “Wow, Wow, Wubzy”!

LOL! I have a 1-year-old, so I’ve been listening to Cookie Monster’s greatest hits a lot…

Do you sell your work anywhere other than etsy?

bonhomiejewelry.1000markets.com

Are there other websites where we can find you/your work?

I have a blog, a facebook page and a myspace page:

Blog: http://bonhomiejewels.blogspot.com
Facebook
MySpace