Thursday, November 20, 2008

Featured artist: Michabella Creations

Today's featured artist makes beatufiul handcrafted artisan jewelry. Michelle Harvey is the genius behind Michabella Creations. She handcrafts each piece and uses a variety of materials including precious metals, genuine Austrian Swarovski crystals, freshwater pearls, gemstones, and beautiful glass beads. Michelle's blog is here.
Q. Tell me a little about yourself: I am a stay-at-home mom to a 3 year old little girl, Chloe. In addition to spending time with her, I love to cook, read, watch reality TV, and when I can, sleep! I am an animal lover and I enjoy all types of music.

Q. When did you first start crafting? I've always been creative, but didn't start crafting until my daughter was about a year old. I felt like I needed to do something for myself, so I learned how to make jewelry. I've always wanted to have my own business, so now I do!
Q. Please describe your art in detail. What's your favorite type of
crafting/art? I create jewelry that is fun, elegant, and unique. I use only high quality materials, such as genuine Swarovski crystals, semi-precious gemstones, silver, gold-fill, and brass. I started using Vintaj brass pieces last year and I absolutely love them! They have a vintage feel, but are still totally modern. They are nickel-free and won't tarnish. I also love the look of wire-wrapping. It is time consuming, but quite eye-catching!

Q. How has your work evolved from your earlier work? When I started out, I used inexpensive materials to teach myself. When pieces starting selling, I had money to invest in better materials. I have learned many new techniques along the way. I always want to learn and love experimenting. I am very meticulous in my designs, and if I don't like the way something looks, I will take it apart until I'm satisfied!
Q. Where do you get your inspiration? I get my inspiration from the fashion world, what people are wearing, the colors of the season. I also get inspiration from nature and the changing seasons. Also, the beads themselves kind of tell me what to do with them sometimes. If I see a bead I love, I buy it, then decide what to do with it.

Q. Where are your products sold (online/stores)? I have my own website, Michabella Creations. I also sell on Smashing Darling and have some pieces on Kitty Gallery. I am always looking for new venues to sell my designs, and I'm hoping to be carried by a few boutiques soon!

Q. What advice can you give other crafters when selling their items? Make sure you can stand behind your products! Quality is extremely important! Also, do what you love. If you don't love something and aren't passionate about it, you can't expect customers will be!

Q. Describe yourself in three words: Hard-working, reliable, and driven.

Q. Is there is anything else you'd like to share with us? Check out Michabella Creations starting Black Friday for a huge discount in time for holiday gifts!
I would like to personally thank Michelle for letting us get to know her and her work a little better. Now, get on over to Michabella Creations and find something you can't live without!

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

This is a great post!

Mod Provisions said...

Thanks! I love her work too! She should be on Smashing Darling, if she's not already!!! :)