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Francesca Watson, Jewelry Designer and Instructor
- Podcast
Heart & Hands of a Maker

Francesca Watson is a passionate metalsmith and jewelry-making instructor. She, along with her beloved husband Nick who is also an artist, manage the operation of The Makery. The Makery is a working and teaching studio in Old Village in Downtown Bulverde, Texas where they host in-person and online workshops, retreats, and more.
In addition to The Makery, Francesca is host to an online community and co-director of Heart of the Maker (now open for enrollment!) , alongside Jessica Coté. As an aside – their next collaboration will be called Hands of the Maker. And yes! It’s a complete coincidence their programs and the title of my podcast are so similarly named.

Passionate maker, instructor, supporter of all who want to learn and grow

In this episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker, Francesca shares insights from her personal maker journey, emphasizing the intrinsic value of creativity and making. Aspiring entrepreneurs will receive invaluable advice from Francesca, highlighting the imperative of seeking professional guidance and crafting robust business strategies—before(!) you start. Francesca emphasizes the value of community, sharing our knowledge to lift others up, and to never stop learning.

I took a beading class, fell in love with rocks so picked up wire wrapping (because torches scared me), dabbled in metal clay as a “work around” to soldering, and finally bit the bullet and dove into metals wholeheartedly. My first experiences were not … let’s just say encouraging. Not encouraging at all. I was in love with the work of Connie Fox and could not get soldering to work for me at all. I was ready to just admit I was a failure and give it all up, but I took a class with Richard Salley and Jessica Jordan Coté that changed everything, and I really owe it to them that I’m a metalsmith.

~Francesca

Boho sterling silver earrings by Francesca Watson

Find and Follow Francesca Watson
To find Francesca, please follow these links then follow her to stay up to date on all she has going on and is offering:
The Makery
Makery Arts Facebook
Francesca’s “Jewelry Instructor” Instagram
Francesca offers her thanks and appreciation to those who have influenced and helped her along her maker journey. Those she references are as follows and can be found through their respective links:
Richard Salley
Jessica Coté
Charles Lewton Brain
Loretta Lam
Tonya Davidson
Connie Fox
Key Episode Takeaways

Creativity is valuable for its own sake and does not need to be monetized to be worthwhile.
Aspiring business owners should seek professional help and create a solid business plan.
Balancing teaching and making can be challenging, but it is important to give oneself permission to focus on personal creative projects.
Busy is not a virtue, and it is important to make time for stillness and creativity.
Embrace failure and learn from mistakes
Don’t worry about what others think and focus on your own journey
Take classes from different teachers to gain different perspectives and techniques
Create a safe space for students to learn and grow
Find joy in making pretty things

Hope, necklace by Francesca Watson
Chapters

(times are estimates)
00:00
The Value of Creativity
21:01
Advice for Business Owners
34:22
Personal Creative Projects
43:24
Creating a Safe Space for Learning and Growth
57:00
The Joy of Making Pretty Things

Redemption Series, work in progress by Francesca Watson

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Jen Cushman: Freedom Through Art and Spirit
- Podcast
Jen Cushman is a natural storyteller drawn to the imperfect, the quirky, the artsy, and the authentic. She’s spent 25 years as a mixed-media artist and instructor, authored two jewelry-making books, appeared on numerous DIY television shows as a guest artist, and has been published in national magazines. Currently, she is a contributing artist on the MadeTV maker network.

To learn more about Jen, visit her website or follow her social media:
YouTube
Instagram
Facebook
To learn about Jen’s retreats in the South of France visit: soulstirringretreats.com
Each Monday, at 11:11 am Arizona time, Jen hosts her Magic Mondays livestreams, where she teaches about personal growth, wellness, energy medicine or spirituality.
She also does mini readings for a handful of her live viewers using her own Joy FULL Oracle Card Deck for Creatives, Healers and Feelers.

In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

Jen discusses the importance of self-care and setting boundaries. She emphasizes the need to prioritize oneself and overcome cultural conditioning that often places women’s needs at the bottom. Jen also encourages embracing failure as a learning opportunity and reframing mistakes as feedback. She highlights the freedom of art and the power of embracing imperfection. Additionally, she challenges the notion that artists are not essential and asserts that art brings beauty and meaning to the world. Jen concludes by emphasizing the importance of supporting and empowering each other on our creative journeys.
Key Takeaways

Embrace authenticity and be true to yourself in your creative journey.
Art and spirit are interconnected and combining them can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself.
Business evolution often involves finding a balance between teaching and creating.
The pandemic has led to a pivot in business strategies, such as Soul Stir Magic, and a greater appreciation for in-person connections.
Digital learning has become more accepted and provides opportunities for both convenience and connection.
Taking care of oneself is essential, and it can be achieved by starting with small, manageable steps.
Authenticity is valued and appreciated, and it is important to embrace and share your unique gifts with the world.
Embrace failure as a learning opportunity and view mistakes as feedback.
Challenge cultural conditioning that undermines the essentiality of artists and recognize the value they bring to the world.
Support and empower each other on our creative journeys.
Chapters

(times are estimates)
00:00
Introduction and Creative Journey
13:43
Art Plus Spirit
19:10
Business Evolution and Teaching
26:01
Creating an Oracle Card Deck
29:44
Pandemic Pivot and Soul Stir Magic
33:29
Balancing In-Person and Digital Learning
40:00
The Importance of Authenticity
41:15
Resetting and Taking Care of Yourself
45:36
The Importance of Self-Care and Setting Boundaries
47:26
Embracing Failure and Learning from Mistakes
50:12
The Freedom of Art and Embracing Imperfection
52:30
Challenging Cultural Conditioning and Recognizing the Essentiality of Artists
56:17
Supporting and Empowering Each Other
57:51
Final Thoughts and Call to Action

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Chris Anderson: Tool Maker, Jewelry Designer, Lapidarist and More
- Podcast
In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

We’re talking with tool maker Chris Anderson of Lion Punch Forge. Chris has been a maker nearly all his life and embraces new paths and challenges without fear. Not only is he a tool maker, he is also a jewelry designer, lapidarist, and so much more. Chris is a voracious reader and applies all he consumes to all facets of his life. His knowledge serves him in his pursuits including all he does to help others with their businesses, tool needs, and more.

Tool maker, lapidary artist, community leader

Through this in-depth conversation, Chris shares the value of building a business around a community that supports (and protects) each other. He highlights the importance of meeting customers where they are and providing support for their needs. Chris shares his perspective on success as a journey. He also discusses the importance and value of networking with other businesses.
To find Chris and Lion Punch Forge:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
TikTok
Be sure to also read this fascinating “welding in a small studio” article by Chris, published in Southern Jewelry News.

excerpt: “A welder can be used to tack (lightly attach) a complicated soldering operation into position, saving set up time and increasing the success of that operation. Combining solder and welding can yield very successful and timely results. A welder can also be used to create complex jewelry forms that may otherwise be out of reach using just a solder join.”
Key Episode Takeaways

Be adaptive and willing to change in order to succeed in business.
Find inspiration in your surroundings and incorporate it into your art.
Embrace mistakes and persevere to create beautiful results.
Spread positivity and hope through your art and interactions with others.
Take risks and be unique in your creative work.
Attend shows and events to make in-person connections and learn from others.

Fine silver foxtail chain with pendant featuring an Ellensburg blue agate. "The general construction of this necklace isn’t very complex. The complexity occurs when it comes to the stone setting. In this case the bezel setting is inside the hollow form and suspended." By Chris Anderson
Chapters

(times are estimates)
00:00
Introduction and Background
01:23
Jill’s Creative Journey
03:12
Discovering a Passion for Teaching
04:06
Starting an E-Learning Company
05:05
Transitioning to Making Dog Wear
08:19
Embracing Technology and Overcoming Fear
11:04
The Rise of Makers and the Importance of Handmade
12:46
Creating Custom Fit Dog Wear
15:10
Teaching Others to Make Dog Wear
17:29
Marrying Passion for Making and Teaching
19:25
Advice for Those Starting Out
21:39
The Importance of Goal Planning
23:58
Dealing with Imposter Syndrome
25:22
Balancing Work and Pursuing a Passion
28:10
Taking Time for Yourself
29:23
Believing in Yourself and Overcoming Fear
31:38
Transitioning from One Business to Another
32:08
Dealing with Imposter Syndrome
33:34
Finding Joy in Creativity
35:32
Creating New Designs and Overcoming Fear
39:24
Teaching and Empowering Others
40:43
Closing Remarks

"A challenge ring" - two finger hollow form ring in sterling silver, adorned with leaf shot made with Kevin Potter's plates. The ring itself has 11 set stones including amethyst, vintage tourmaline leaf carvings, citrine, and peridot. The challenge was I dedicated myself to doing the construction with a plumber's torch. By Chris Anderson

Titanium solder pick made by Lion Punch Forge, personalized engraving

Chain. By Chris Anderson

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Historical Look Back at Tucson Gem and Mineral Shows
- Tucson
Tucson Gem & Mineral Shows Attract Collectors and Then Some!

Tucson, Arizona, a city found in the beautiful Sonoran Desert, transforms into a global haven for gemstone and mineral enthusiasts every late January early February. What began as a small exhibition in the 1950s has burgeoned into the largest and most renowned gathering of its kind.

amethyst geodes

The Genesis

The Tucson shows date back to the mid-20th century when the Tucson Gem and Mineral Society (TGMS) laid the cornerstone. In 1955, the TGMS organized the first showcase, intended primarily for local collectors and enthusiasts. Held at a local school on East Glenn, this humble event laid the foundation for what would eventually evolve into 45+ shows that take over the whole city!

amethyst slices on display

Over Time

The first Tucson Gem & Mineral club show was a success and moved to the local fairgrounds for the next decade+. The show continued to grow, attracting more exhibitors and more visitors. In 1960, the curator for the Smithsonian was invited to exhibit—and he said “yes!” The curator brought with him an exhibit and, it is said, this changed the course of the shows from their forward.

Pivotal Growth

By 1970 there were 100 exhibitors and $2 million worth of collections on display. In 1973 the Tucson Gem and Mineral Society hosted their club show at the Tucson Convention Center. This was a significant milestone and offered them space to accommodate the swelling number of participants, including international vendors and attendees. Change from here forward was exponential.

Gemstone strands as seen in the Dakota Stones booth during the Tucson Gem & Mineral Shows

Time Marches On

Each year, the Tucson Gem and Mineral Shows continue to evolve, welcoming new technologies and trends. The rise of e-commerce and online platforms has influenced the way business is conducted, enabling the show’s global impact to extend far beyond its physical location. However, the in-person experience remains irreplaceable, as it offers a tactile and immersive encounter with all that can be found in this beautiful city.

Cabochons carved by Joe Jelks of Horizon Minerals

Nature on Display

The shows also celebrate the artistic aspect of minerals and gems, showcasing the natural specimens as well as craftsmanship of lapidary artists who transform raw stones into juicy pieces of art ripe for your next jewelry making endeavor. From intricately carved cameos to beautifully faceted gemstones, these creations add a layer of artistry to the event, elevating it beyond a mere trade show.

American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) show held inside the Tucson Convention Center

Culmination

To this day the shows attract visitors, collectors, and dealers from every corner of the world. The Tucson Gem and Mineral club show is still a cornerstone of the Tucson Gem and Mineral shows and it is still held at the Tucson Convention Center which also houses the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) show. The AGTA show is held early in the weeks the shows can be attended and the TGMS shows runs the last few days of the cycle and it remains a “must see!”

During the MOJO event, l to r: Katie Hacker, Meredith Roddy, Sandra Lupo, Wyatt White, Tamara Honaman, Deb Floros

Tucson Gem and Mineral Shows Offer More Than Gemstones

The Tucson Gem and Mineral Shows (as a collective) is more than just a commercial event. The shows are a melting pot of cultures, knowledge, and artistry. The shows play host to a diverse array of exhibitors, from individual collectors, dealers showcasing their finest gemstones and minerals, finished jewelry pieces as well as raw stones, fossils, lapidary art, and the latest finds, fresh from the Earth. You can also learn how to make jewelry while in town!
Tucson’s geographical setting plays a significant role in the show’s success. A hub for “snowbirds,” there are many more who like to escape winter and flock to the desert southwest! There is also great food to be had, friends to connect with, art, and culture, too.
For a more in-depth look, be sure to read Terri Haag’s account of the shows history.

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Milagros Rivera Mixed Media Artist
- Podcast
Meet Milagros Rivera a Mixed Media Artist and Instructor

Milagros Rivera is, at her core, an artist. She breathes life into any material that speaks to her and empowers others through her words and imagery. Mixed Media is her passion!
Milagros is also a business woman, operating The Paper Boutique Scrapbooking Studio in Puerto Rico since 2006. Here, she hosts in-person workshops as well as live workshops and education sessions. You can also shop with her, in-person or virtually.
Her boutique is filled with all the materials you could need to create until your hearts content. You’ll also find her signature stamps which speak to your soul. Follow her on social to catch her lives, listen to her words, be empowered by her art.

In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

Milagros Rivera, a mixed media artist living in Puerto Rico, shares her creative journey, how her business came to be, and how she navigated the challenges of hurricane Maria and the pandemic. Milagros shares the importance of being adaptive in business and finding inspiration in her surroundings. She also emphasizes the power of giving and sharing, as well as taking risks and embracing mistakes. Milagros encourages artists to be unique and authentic in their work and highlights the value of in-person connections at shows and events.
Key Takeaways

Attending in-person events is crucial for learning techniques, making connections, and seeing products up close.
Adapting to challenges and taking risks is essential for success in business.
Being unique and original is key to getting published and standing out in the creative industry.
Building a community and giving back can bring joy and fulfillment in the creative journey.
Finding inspiration from the surroundings and embracing mistakes can lead to new ideas and growth.
Attending craft shows and in-person events provides valuable opportunities for learning, networking, and showcasing creativity. Creativity is essential for personal growth and self-expression.
Finding inspiration can come from unexpected sources.
Challenges are opportunities for learning and growth.
Building a community of like-minded individuals can provide support and encouragement.
Advice for aspiring makers: embrace failure, be persistent, and stay true to yourself.

Be Bold; Scribble Stick and ink, by Milagros Rivera
Chapters

(times are estimates)
00:00
Introduction and Creative Inspiration
02:17
Starting a Creative Business
03:43
Overcoming Challenges: Hurricane and Pandemic
07:02
Adapting to Change in Business
09:42
The Importance of Being Adaptive
10:32
Supporting the Community
12:46
The Power of Giving and Sharing
15:33
Getting Published and Being Unique
19:15
Taking Risks and Making Contacts
20:53
Finding Inspiration in the Surroundings
23:39
Creating with Unconventional Materials
27:15
The Power of ‘What If’
28:39
Being Spontaneous and Experimental
30:56
Embracing Mistakes and Persevering
36:17
Spreading Positivity and Hope
38:31
Upcoming Projects and Travel
46:22
Preserving Puerto Rican Culture
49:41
The Value of In-Person Connections
50:09
Closing Remarks

Espiritu Libre; watercolor by Milagros Rivera

Yesterday is Heavy; acrylic and ink, by Milagros Rivera

Stamps designed by Milagros Rivera

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Jill Bartlett eLearning Expert and Dog Wear Designer
- Lifestyle, Podcast
Meet Jill Bartlett

Jill Bartlett, dog wear designer at Scouterwear

Jill Bartlett is the visionary and creative force behind Scouterwear and Thank Dog We Made It. Following her passion, Jill has found a way to combine her love for teaching others while also creating with her hands.

Jill started out as a graphic designer and animator then launched an eLearning company, which she co-owned for over 15 years. As the corporate chaos increased, Jill started craving a creative outlet to unwind from all the stress. Knitting, sewing, and carpentry were her salvation.
Jill is now a dog wear designer with a line of dog wear suited to fit dogs of all sizes and she teaches others how to make their own dog wear—whether sewn using a variety of fabrics or knitted.

In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

Jill thrives on pushing boundaries and challenging norms, a sentiment that now echoes in every stitch of the original dog wear she designs. Jill also finds joy in teaching others to make their own dog wear. In this conversation, Jill shares her creative journey, her transition from a corporate career to making dog wear, and her passion for teaching others how to make their own dog wear. Jill shares her experiences with imposter syndrome, the importance of goal planning, and the joy she finds in creativity. She also offers advice for those starting out and emphasizes the importance of taking time for oneself.
Key Takeaways

Follow your passion and believe in yourself.
Plan for the future and consider where you want to be in the long term.
Don’t be afraid of technology and embrace the opportunities it offers.
Take time for yourself and prioritize self-care.
Overcome imposter syndrome and believe in your abilities.
Find joy in creativity and embrace the process of learning and trying new things.
Teach and empower others to pursue their own creative journeys.
Chapters

(times are estimates)
00:00
Introduction and Background
01:23
Jill’s Creative Journey
03:12
Discovering a Passion for Teaching
04:06
Starting an E-Learning Company
05:05
Transitioning to Making Dog Wear
08:19
Embracing Technology and Overcoming Fear
11:04
The Rise of Makers and the Importance of Handmade
12:46
Creating Custom Fit Dog Wear
15:10
Teaching Others to Make Dog Wear
17:29
Marrying Passion for Making and Teaching
19:25
Advice for Those Starting Out
21:39
The Importance of Goal Planning
23:58
Dealing with Imposter Syndrome
25:22
Balancing Work and Pursuing a Passion
28:10
Taking Time for Yourself
29:23
Believing in Yourself and Overcoming Fear
31:38
Transitioning from One Business to Another
32:08
Dealing with Imposter Syndrome
33:34
Finding Joy in Creativity
35:32
Creating New Designs and Overcoming Fear
39:24
Teaching and Empowering Others
40:43
Closing Remarks

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