The Mirrix Looms Story — A Journey Through Creativity, Family, and Business In a heartfelt episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker, I sit down with Claudia Chase and Elena Kawachi, the dynamic mother-daughter duo behind Mirrix Looms. This conversation is more than just a business interview; it’s a deep dive into the evolution of a creative idea, the resilience of women in entrepreneurship, and the harmonious balance of family and business. It’s a tale that spans nearly three decades, filled with…
Tamara sits down with the powerhouse team behind Mirrix Looms, Claudia Chase (founder and president) and her daughter Elena Kawachi (co-owner and head of marketing). Together, they share the inspiring story of a family-run business that began in a Wisconsin barn and grew into a beloved brand in the weaving community.
Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking for inspiration, practical advice on building a creative business, or simply a heartwarming story of a family’s shared passion. Tune in to learn more about the magic behind Mirrix Looms and discover why so many people are drawn to the art of weaving.
(times are estimates)
00:00 The Genesis of Mirix Looms
10:06 Navigating Growth and Change
20:15 The Evolution of Weaving and Community
30:39 The Importance of Content and Education
40:39 Creating a Supportive Community
50:25 The Value of the Creative Process
We are shining a light on Brandi Tracey, the inspiring founder of NET Creative Designs, named in memory of her father, Norman Edward Tracey. Brandi’s journey into jewelry-making is a story of resilience, transformation, and passion. Initially a paralegal, Brandi transitioned into full-time making following the birth of her daughter and the challenges the pandemic presented in 2020. What began as a simple hobby evolved into a creative calling.
Brandi finds fulfillment in the entire process of making. She particularly enjoys piercing, sawing, and hammering, all of which allow her to express herself. This practice is not only an art form but also a source of stability, aiding her sobriety journey and offering a sense of purpose.
To find Brandi and NET Creative:
Others mentioned in the episode:
(times are estimates)
00:00
The Creative Journey Begins
00:59
Brandi’s Evolution as a Maker
10:05
Finding Community and Support
20:03
Navigating the Business of Creativity
30:05
Embracing Growth and Learning
Visit with renowned jewelry artist, author, and teacher Loretta Lam. Loretta shares her inspiring journey— from her early love of jewelry making to discovering polymer clay, which transformed her career. With over 25 years in the art industry, Loretta opens up about her experience building a successful jewelry business, the challenges and joys of writing her book Mastering Contemporary Jewelry Design (Schiffer Publishing), and her passion for teaching design principles to help other makers find their artistic voice.
Whether you’re an aspiring maker or an established artist, this conversation is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and the wisdom of someone who has spent decades perfecting their craft.
Loretta’s Early Years: Learn about Loretta’s childhood fascination with jewelry making, starting with stringing buttons from her mother’s button box, and how she eventually pursued a formal education in jewelry at SUNY New Paltz.
Discovering Polymer Clay: Loretta shares the transformative moment when she discovered polymer clay in the 90s and how it became the foundation of her artistic career.
Building a Business: From local art shows to major craft fairs, Loretta discusses the practical challenges of turning her craft into a sustainable business, highlighting the importance of multiple income streams.
Teaching and Mentorship: Loretta found a passion for teaching, guiding students through their creative journeys, and helping them develop their own voice.
Writing Mastering Contemporary Jewelry Design: The long road to publishing her design-focused book, including the eight years it took to convince a publisher of the need for a book on jewelry design.
The Pandemic Shift: How COVID-19 forced Loretta to transition her in-person teaching to online platforms, reaching a global audience and allowing her to focus on design rather than technique.
Art as a Lifelong Journey: Loretta reflects on the personal and emotional aspects of art-making, encouraging makers to embrace their unique creative paths.
(times are estimates)
00:00
The Creative Journey Begins
02:50
Loretta Lamb: A Journey Through Art
06:12
Teaching and Mentorship in Jewelry Design
08:59
The Book Journey: From Idea to Publication
12:10
Adapting to Change: Online Teaching During COVID
15:03
The Importance of Design in Art
17:50
Understanding the Elements of Design
21:14
Finding Your Voice as an Artist
24:06
The Value of Community in Art
26:57
Reflections on the Artistic Journey
29:39
Embracing Authenticity in Art
32:30
The Journey of Creativity and Growth
36:56
Overcoming Creative Blocks and Fears
39:51
The Psychological Benefits of Creating
42:17
Learning Through Failure and Exploration
45:35
Finding Your Unique Artistic Voice
48:55
Purposeful Learning in Art
51:45
Balancing Production and Creativity
Tamara Honaman sits down with the multi-talented Jill MacKay, an acclaimed jewelry component designer, digital content creator, and artist. Jill shares her incredible journey, from overcoming early challenges to becoming a leading designer in the jewelry-making industry. She discusses the evolution of her business, her passion for mentorship, and her deep commitment to creating meaningful, story-driven art.
Jill offers practical advice for aspiring artists, reflecting on the lessons she’s learned over her career and the importance of resilience, adaptability, and staying true to one’s creative vision. This episode is filled with heartfelt moments and invaluable insights for anyone seeking to build a sustainable creative business or simply navigate the ups and downs of an artistic career.
Jill uses these habits in her daily practice, focusing on prioritizing tasks that create the greatest impact.
Jill recommends this book to anyone wanting to improve their drawing skills, as it teaches how to “see” rather than just “look.”
(times are estimates)
00:00
Introduction and Keys to Success
04:11
The Power of Drawing and Writing
05:08
Adapting to Technology and Embracing Change
07:04
The Value of Mentorship and Preparation
13:55
Setting Prices and Knowing Your Worth
19:31
Understanding the Brain and Creating New Habits
21:56
Finding Your Niche and What Works for You
23:50
The Challenges of Pricing and Settling
29:08
Dreaming Big and Creating a Future
30:05
Ignoring the Doubters and Pursuing Your Passion
32:00
Finding Your Creative Flow State
36:19
The Power of Relationships and Networking
39:24
Bringing Depth and Storytelling into Jewelry Making
Jewelry expert and business owner Kierston Aiello shares her creative journey and how community, authenticity, and collaboration shaped her success. Kierston opens up about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of finding your niche, and her exciting plans for her new foundry. Tune in for inspiring insights on following your heart and surrounding yourself with supportive, like-minded people.
Born and raised in sunny California, Kierston Aiello is a metalsmith and designer with a passion for American craft. While getting her B.A. in Art History at Humboldt State University, she unexpectedly fell in love with metalsmithing.
Her experience in production jewelry, including her time at TierraCast, solidified her love for the craft and the intricacies of large-scale production.
(times are estimates)
00:00
Introduction and Welcome
03:04
Kierston’s Creative Journey and Business Evolution
11:10
Transitioning to Self-Employment and Starting a Foundry
21:06
The Importance of Community and Connection
25:29
Embracing Authenticity and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
32:30
Navigating the Business Side of Starting a Business
38:20
Creating Something Special and Being Yourself
41:59
Upcoming Plans and Closing Thoughts
