A former co-worker once told me of her love of jewelry making. I didn’t know at that moment that her love for the art of jewelry-making would become my passion. Thank you, Deena.I make at least one piece of jewelry everyday and think of designs for jewelry every hour – at least it seems that way to me. I love to look at beads, to touch them and to make something pretty with them.
It amazed me, right from the beginning, that family and friends also found my jewelry attractive. Later, when they actually asked me to make jewelry as gifts for other people I was flattered and more than a little pleased. It’s a wonderful feeling when others find things you have made as pretty as you believe them to be.
So now I find myself selling my jewelry at flea markets, shows and on the Internet. I pick up information about the beads I use and learn more about making and caring for jewelry all the time. I share that information with my customers, family and friends. I want to use this space to offer some bits of knowledge and some tips. I’ll add things from time to time. And if you have a question you think I might be able to help answer you can contact me at my website: www.simplyelegant-jewelry.com.
Some of my favorite bits of wisdom follow:
1. Most of us have jewelry boxes or dresser drawers in which we tuck away our jewelry. Most of us remember to keep our most treasured pieces in the boxes or bags they came in when purchased to preserve and protect them. But preserving our less costly gems can be just as important. I know I have lost many minutes trying to find a matching earring, untangling a necklace or pendant, wondering how that bead came loose from the bracelet and if I can find it in this crowded drawer. Well, now I keep a box of plastic bags in that drawer. Each set of earrings, each necklace – including sets -- , each bracelet and ring are put into a plastic bag before it is put into my jewelry drawer. Now the jewelry doesn’t scratch other pieces, there are no tangles and earrings stay together. If a bead does come loose while being jostled about while I’m looking for something else, it’s right in the bag and I can repair it. An easy way to keep all my jewelry looking its best!
