Wearable by Design

Today's featured etsy seller is Wearable By Design. She makes amazing jewelry from metal clay, and recently took 2nd place in the metal clay category of the Saul Bell jewelry design awards - and I'm sure you can see why the judges were impressed: How did you pick your shop name? I wanted something that reflected the idea that my work was art, yet very wearable. This may be obvious, but what is your medium? What kinds of materials and tools do you use? I work mostly in a new material called Metal Clay (PMC and Art Clay Silver). I create pure silver jewelry fantasies. Tell me a little bit about your process, from a new idea for a piece to the finished product. Sometimes I sketch an idea out, but usually I form it in my head and just let it come out my fingers -- in other words, I mostly work directly in the clay. Often I’ll create a paper template if what I’m making has many parts that need to fit together in a specific way. Then I roll out a slab of clay and cut the pieces out, dry and refine them, put them together and fire them in my kiln (that’s kind of a quick run down -- in reality it’s a lot more work). At other times, I’ll form the pieces like miniature sculptures, or I’ll use a mold from a found object to stamp out pieces. It’s such a versatile product. That’s why I love it so much -- I can create anything I can imagine! Any advice for aspiring artists/crafters in your medium? Be true to yourself. That’s the way real art is created -- when it’s your true, unique expression. Any business advice for artists/crafters just starting to sell their work? It takes time to develop your own niche and eventually to be seen/know by your own particular style. In order for that to happen, the promotional aspect of the job cannot be skipped. Most artist are probably introverts by nature and that’s the hardest part of the job, but you have to do it. What is the last song/album you listened to? (I’m just curious, I love music.) It was last night at dinner [note: this interview actually took place a while ago] and I couldn’t tell you because I’m not good with that kind of thing. At our house, my husband is in charge of the music. The style we both prefer is kind of alternative. Are there other websites where we can find you/your work? I have a very website where you can see some of my work. The address is www.wearablebydesign.com Thanks so much for doing this interview! And congrats on the award!