I took a metalsmithing jewelry class in high school. My 16-year-old self had this fantasy of discovering an inner bohemian with a raw talent for creating gorgeous pieces of jewelry that everyone would just die to wear. But like many teenage expectations, mine failed to live up to the dream I had created in my mind.
I struggled to create smooth lines and no amount of filing and polishing, and filing and polishing again, could make my pendant look like anything more than child's play. It can be hard to understand the complexity of a craft unless you have attempted it yourself. The end result is supposed to look effortless and flawless, but often there is blood, sweat and tears preceding.
Etsy Artisan Jewelry shop reveals a collection of beautiful and unique jewelry. A longer look reveals an artist that is truly dedicated to her craft.
Each piece is handmade, whether it is sawn, forged or pierced, with meticulous attention to detail. Her Goddess necklace reveals the many layers of care and effort put into her jewelry. Bowe has textured the copper, hand-sawn the design and completed the pendant with a lovely old-world patina. I love that the surrounding shape is square, making it feel even more unusual.
If you have an interest in trying your hand at making jewelry, Bowe also sells handmade supplies through Fundamental Fragments, an Etsy shop with the same attention to detail as her eponymous boutique. Read more about Bowe and her jewelry on her Etsy Trunk Show being held at What is your favorite piece and why? What advice do you have for people interested in starting an online store? How do you make the separation between your store and your day job/personal life? What is your favorite local shop in Madison?
Because it can be a long process, the feeling of accomplishment I get when I finally see the end result means that usually the one I just finished is my favorite. But if I had to choose, I would say "Ignite" is definitely one of my favorites. This pendant is an original design that I've hand-sawn into copper. It's a good representation of how someone once described my style -- "antique in composition, but modern in design; subtle in coloring, but strong in intensity."
Oh wow, do you have a few hours? My one best piece of advice is to spend time researching how to take great photos of your items -- it's essential. I think many people underestimate the time commitment involved in an online store and don't figure in the time they need to spend taking photos, writing descriptions, answering emails, etc. The separation between my store and my personal life is a fine line. I work 40 hours a week at my day job, and I usually spend about 60 hours a week in my studio. Occasionally, I sleep.
Again with the favorites -- it's too hard to choose just one! Well, I love Badger Welding Supplies they're so helpful and nice there. I also find it hard to pass by
Etsy is an online marketplace whose mission is to "reconnect makers with buyers." These explorations will connect you with the makers in your neighborhood.
