I wanted to do this with the idea of being able to add information and tutorials here for others to use. I am always getting frustrated when I want to know how to do something and I can’t find it on the internet. Yes I use the internet for everything, I live in a smallish community (put it this way, there is nothing open after 6pm any night of the week). So getting information and supplies for jewellery making and or sewing can be problematic.
I have an Etsy store and use the name AstronomyGirl Designs. Why? I love astronomy and get a lot of inspiration from the sky, ever heard of the star cluster called “The Jewel Box”? It is a southern sky object found in the Southern Cross. It is one of the first I remember learning as a kid and still one of my favourites, now depending on your eyesight, the stillness of the night and whether you are using a telescope or binoculars you can see a LOT of stars there all different sizes and colours. Thus its name.
So for me I like to use anything starry or spacey in my designs, I collect and stash fabrics, beads, crystals, charms and more fabrics from op shops, spotlight sales, the internet and stuff I get given. I love to work with Swarovski crystals which, as far as I’m concerned, give a most beautiful sparkle to any piece of jewellery or item of clothing for that matter and they are fabulous to work with.
Star and moon charms feature as well in my work. Another favourite element in my jewellery making is the Moonstone. Named so because it resembles the sheen given off the moon when full and is just beautiful. Moonstone is great because it works with every colour and hue and whether it be gold or silver. I am yet to find an item I was making which didn’t work with moonstone.
All my creations use have been thought up from things I like, that is the key if you are interested in making things yourself, make stuff you like, make things that would make you happy to wear. I am happy to do custom items too, they are actually easier really, it can be really really tricky to come up with a new design or colour scheme sometimes, but there is no limit to your creativity.
Example:
Favourite things: Astronomy, Ancient Egypt, Dance, Sewing, my kids
What am I good at: Sewing, Jewellery Making, Talking (writing)
Why do I want to sell my creations: it is great for the self esteem – the idea of someone being willing to spend money on something I created is wonderful. I like the idea of my work making others feel good, and I’m not one of those wonderful types of people who can be a nurse. Selling creations also allows me to go and buy more bits and pieces to play with.
Thus resulting in me having a go at selling some of my work online – when things sell it also gives me a great excuse to buy more supplies. I imagine I am not the only one whose fingers start to itchy at the sound of a spotlight sale.
So for those of you who are curious, have a look at my Esty store and let me know what you think.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/AstronomyGirlDesigns