Etsy Interview with Mistys Beadworks

Etsy Interview with Mistys Beadworks<br /><br />First off, tell me a little bit about yourself. Hi, my name is Misty. I live in San Diego, California with my husband, and the best cat on the planet. I have lived here almost my entire life, and I love it, cant even imagine dealing with a cold, snowy climate! My Etsy shop is called Mistys Beadworks . I work full time as a medical billing representative, so I dont have nearly as much time as I would like to spend making jewelry, it is my hobby and my passion! I had dabbled in other crafty hobbies in the past, but nothing got my creative juices flowing like designing and making jewelry does.<br /><br />How and when did you start making jewelry and your other items?<br /><br />I started making jewelry about 4 years ago. I had always loved jewelry, especially unique, handcrafted pieces and for years I thought that someday I would like to learn to make my own. I finally took a couple of classes at a local bead shop, and from that point on, I was hooked!<br /><br />When and how did you originally find Etsy?<br /><br />People had begun to comment favorably on my jewelry, and few people had suggested I think about selling my pieces. I was intrigued by the idea, mostly because I was making necklaces and earrings right and left and I couldnt wear everything myself! I found a website that had tons of tips for selling handcrafted jewelry, and that is where I first read about Etsy.<br /><br />What is unique about Etsy and what about the website do you like the most in regards to your shop?<br /><br />I have to admit I am not terribly web savvy and Etsy made the setup so easy, with instructions, help and tutorials for every step. Plus it was a relatively inexpensive way to begin to have an online presence. The community aspect of it is great. People share a ton of information about creating, marketing and selling their work, not just on Etsy, but through other venues as well. I just wish I had more time to read it all!<br /><br />What inspires you the most in regards to your creations?<br /><br />I am inspired by the beads themselves! I see the beautiful colors, shapes and textures and cant wait to design. There are some great magazines and books out there on jewelry making, and I love to look at them, but I almost never copy a design exactly, I will see a type of bead, or combinations of shapes or colors that inspire me to design something of my own.<br /><br />What is your favorite piece youve created and why?<br /><br />If I had to pick one I would say the necklace I call Copper Vine It was the inspiration for my tag line naturally unique jewelry designs as it has a natural, organic look, as do most of my pieces. I love the warmth of copper, leaves are a common theme in my pieces and this necklace also includes swarovski crystals in olive green and peach, two of my favorite colors.<br /><br />What do you want to accomplish with your online shop?<br /><br />My goal, as it was when I started a year ago, is basically to make my bead habit self supporting, and to sell some of my pieces so I can keep creating more !<br /><br />Do you have any new creations in the works? If so, what can shoppers expect to see from you soon?<br /><br />I have a number of items that I need to photograph and post. We moved recently and are still figuring out the optimum spot in the new house for getting good jewelry photos. I have more earrings and new necklaces featuring chain in copper and antique brass.<br /><br />Where can readers find out about more information regarding your jewelry and other creations and possible special offers including additional websites, blogs, facebook, etc?<br /><br />Right now the best place is on Etsy at Mistys Beadworks.<br /><br />I dont have time for much else!<br /><br />Published by Rachel B.<br /><br />Rachel B. is a college student from the Midwest with a passion for political and local issues. Her writing has been featured on the front page of Yahoo! View profile<br /><br />Tips on Purchasing Different Styles of Silver JewelrySilver jewelry has always been a fairly cheap and popular fashion accessory. After all, Dallas is full of terrific jewelry stores that sell quality stone.