tell us about your background
I am a teacher who has always been interested in different crafts such as knitting, cross stitch and quilling. About five years ago I became involved with making my own jewellery, just threading beads to start. Since then I have been introduced to polymer clay and seed beading. Both of these mediums are the constants in my jewellery now.
tell us about what you create
My passion lies in creating bracelets, bangles and pendants using both clay and seed beads. I also enjoy playing around with rings, earrings and keyrings. At times I incorporate both in a piece using my own polymer clay cabochons as features of my jewellery pieces.
what made you start making your pieces?
I used to get frustrated trying to find the sort of jewellery that appealed to me and would suit my style. My sister introduced me to making my own and now it is part of what I do whenever I can.
What is your inspiration/influences?
I am inspired by some very talented artists – Bettina Welker, Dani Rappinet, Julie Picarello. Marcia De Coster, Jamie Cloud Eakin and Beverley Ash Gilbert.
My influences come from nature. The colours of nature are so perfect and I model my colour choices on these. I have become a fan of photography and find myself taking heaps of photos of flowers, trees and landscapes.
What materials do you use?
All of my jewellery is designed using polymer clay and/or seed beads along with a range of other quality glass beads, pearls and semi precious beads.
tell us about your creative process?
When I am starting a new design I either go one of two ways. One way is to just go with the flow once a focal has been chosen – choosing many colours that suit the focal – and building it up as I go. My other method, which I am tending to use more often now, is to actually plan my design on paper including colours, types and sizes of beads, patterning and finishing(clasp and neck rope)
why did you choose in.cube8r?
I chose in.cube8r because it was recommended to me by someone who is presently at in.cube8r.
anything else you would like to add?
I find it very therapeutic doing my clay and beading. It takes me away from my day job and into another realm which is very fulfilling.
where else can we find you?
I also have a website, etsy store and madeit store.
www.facebook.com/KarensJewellery4You
www.etsy.com/shop/KarensJewellery4You
www.madeit.com.au/KarensJewellery4You