• From Loss to Legacy: Brandi Tracey’s Journey as a Maker

    In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

    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.

    It’s about sharing the journey and inspiring others.

    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:

    The Heart & Hands of a Maker episode with Chris Anderson can be found here .

    Key Episode Takeaways

    • Finding Passion in Unexpected Places: Brandi’s initial exploration of making was more for decorating her home. That led to a full-fledged passion for jewelry-making and metalsmithing.
    • Coping and Creating: The art of jewelry-making became an emotional anchor for Brandi, serving as a coping mechanism during a difficult time of grief and personal change.
    • Growth Through Community: Brandi’s journey highlights the importance of connecting with mentors, joining creative communities, and not being afraid to ask for help.
    • Challenges in Pricing and Market Understanding: Brandi shares her initial struggles with underpricing and finding her target market, and how she overcame these through support from metalsmith communities and workshops.
    • Empowering New Creatives: Brandi’s vision extends beyond her business to nurturing a supportive environment for aspiring jewelers through her YouTube channel and upcoming Patreon group.
    Pendant; By Brandi Tracey

    Chapters

    (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

    Necklace and bracelet; Sterling silver by Brandi Tracey

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  • Creative Journey with Artist, Author, Mentor Loretta Lam

    In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

    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.

    Design is universal and applies to all creative endeavors

    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.

    Links to help you find Loretta:

    Key Episode Takeaways

    • 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.

    A Dark and Stormy Night necklace; polymer; by Loretta Lam
    Cairn Series Spears Necklace; polymer and steel cable; by Loretta Lam
    cover of Loretta Lam's book "Mastering Contemporary Jewelry Design"
    Medium Berry Violet; polymer beads, steel cable; by Loretta Lam

    Chapters

    (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

    please note: some links are affiliate links where your purchase would provide a small commission at no cost to you.

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  • How Jewelry Designer Jill MacKay Built a Successful Career

    In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

    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.

    The Power of Relationships and Networking

    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.

    Places you can find Jill:

    Recommended Resources:

    • The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

    Jill uses these habits in her daily practice, focusing on prioritizing tasks that create the greatest impact.

    • Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards

    Jill recommends this book to anyone wanting to improve their drawing skills, as it teaches how to “see” rather than just “look.”

    Key Episode Takeaways:

    • Success in the creative industry requires being good at what you do, delivering on time, and consistently meeting your commitments.
    • Finding creative inspiration and turning your passion into a business requires perseverance and continuous learning.
    • Technology can both enhance and challenge the creative process, and it’s important to adapt and embrace new tools and techniques.
    • Mentorship and community support are invaluable in the creative industry, providing guidance, inspiration, and opportunities for growth.
    • Setting prices as an artist can be challenging, but it’s important to value your work and not settle for less than it’s worth.
    • Simplifying and prioritizing your life and work can lead to greater focus, productivity, and fulfillment in your creative journey.
    • Find your creative flow state and make it a priority.
    • Relationships and networking are crucial in the creative industry.
    • Be a good friend and surround yourself with supportive people.
    • Bring depth and storytelling into your creative work.
    • Make things fun and enjoy the process.
    Jill MacKay feature in Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artist

    Chapters:

    (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

    Fort Collins, Colorado; Art in the Park installation, by Jill MacKay
    Necklace design made using leather-cutting dies by Jill MacKay

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  • Kierston Aiello: Artist, Metalsmith, and Bootstrap Beads

    Finding Your People: A Conversation with Jewelry Expert Kierston Aiello

    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.

    The Importance of Community in the Creative Process

    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. 

    Find Kierston here:

     

    Key Episode Takeaways

    • Find your community and surround yourself with like-minded people who support and inspire you.
    • Follow your heart and be authentic in your creative journey and business endeavors.
    • Embrace your niche and offer something unique to your audience.
    • Collaborate with other artists to create diverse and exciting collections.
    • Seek support and guidance from small business development centers and other business groups.
    • Don’t let fear of failure hold you back from starting your own business.
    • Enjoy the process and have fun with your creative endeavors.
    Series of rings: Kierston Aiello

    Chapters

    (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

    Bootstrap Beads & Foundry's new home!
    Tree brooch: Kierston Aiello

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  • Carrie Story: Hobbyist to Inventor, Manufacturer, Instructor

    In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

    Carrie Story, a renowned metal clay artist, inventor, manufacturer, and instructor, shares her inspiring journey from a hobbyist to a successful entrepreneur. Carrie began her creative path beading and making jewelry as a relaxing hobby. Her discovery of metal clay sparked a deep passion, leading her to start teaching and eventually recognize a significant demand for metal clay products and education.

    This realization prompted Carrie to launch her own business, Clay Revolution. Here, they manufacture clays and products to serve the artist community’s needs (more tools!). Clay Revolution continues to grow and will be celebrating the first anniversary of Project X, their newest product line, a family of silver metal clays.

    Throughout the episode, Carrie emphasizes the importance of identifying one’s strengths and being honest about skills and passions. She advises entrepreneurs not to fear competition but to learn from it instead.

    Artists work shown above with permission: Clockwise starting (center) upper left:

    Michael Marx
    Cathy Flesher
    Brandy Boyd
    Melissa Kay-Steves



    JUMP. Just do it. Weigh your risks so you know what you can afford to lose. Then take any necessary precautions and risk the rest. There is no harm in sticking your neck out there. What is the worst that can happen?

    Key Episode Takeaways

    • Find your niche and understand your strengths to build a successful business.
    • Competition can be beneficial and push you to be better.
    • Analyze opportunities and make informed decisions based on their potential impact.
    • Seek advice and support to overcome self-doubt and fear of failure.
    • Don’t be afraid to ask for help or hire expertise in areas where you lack knowledge. Overcoming self-doubt is crucial for success
    • Surround yourself with supportive people
    • Don’t be paralyzed by fear, take action
    • Put yourself out there and take pride in your work
    • Innovation and differentiation are key in marketing
    By: Stephanie Chavez

    Chapters

    (times are estimates)

    00:00

    Introduction and Background

    01:19

    Carrie’s Creative Journey and Business Evolution

    05:06

    Meeting the Demand for Metal Clay Products and Education

    07:03

    Expanding into Silver Clay and Business Growth

    08:19

    Embracing What You’re Good at and Enjoy

    10:12

    Learning from Competition and Finding Opportunities

    23:45

    Competition as a Source of Growth and Innovation

    29:41

    Seeking Help and Overcoming Self-Doubt

    30:08

    Overcoming Self-Doubt

    32:30

    The Importance of Surrounding Yourself with Good People

    34:54

    Navigating the Challenges of Having Your Name on a Product

    36:19

    Striving for Excellence in Your Craft

    40:26

    The Process of Developing a New Clay Formula

    50:30

    Innovative Marketing and Branding Strategies

    57:02

    Bringing Metal Clay to a Wider Audience

    By: Michael Marx
    By: Cathy Flesher
    By: Melissa Kay-Steves

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  • Jessica Coté: Metalsmith, Jewelry Artist, Mentor

    In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

    Join me for a captivating conversation with Jessica Coté, a metalsmith from Fuquay Varina, North Carolina. You may know her from her brand name, Rosy Revolver.

    Jessica shares her remarkable journey in the world of metal fabrication and her found passion for teaching and empowering others to find their creative voice. The conversation winds through topics such as the importance of authenticity in art, the value of failure, impact of social media on the creative community, the importance of self-awareness in art, and the need for kindness and grace.

    Metalsmith, Jewelry Artist, Artist Mentor

    Since 2008, Jessica has been dedicated to her craft full-time. She creates bold, feminine statement jewelry. 

    Jessica opens up about the evolution of her business, the hurdles she has overcome, and the invaluable lessons she has learned along the way. 

    Jessica Coté aka Rosy Revolver

    Jessica is a maker and sells her finished work, she conducts metal and design workshops online and nationwide. She is also the cofounder of Heart of the Maker, a program she conducts alongside Francesca Watson. (Join the waitlist to learn when the next cohort opens for enrollment!)

    In addition to all of this, Jessica develops tools and materials to improve efficiency in her work—after all, there is only so much time in a day! Jessica doesn’t keep these innovations to herself, so you can also benefit from her genius:  

    • Hone & Highlight, is a tumbling media for jewelry making, in both original and mini.
    • Tumbler frames and wheels help prevent tangling when you tumble chains. 

    Beyond her professional life, Jessica enjoys her time as a mom of three, she is a plant fanatic, an animal enthusiast, and a lover of all things vintage.

    Through our conversation, Jessica also shares exciting future plans, including the possible purchase of a church she hopes to transform into an inspiring space for artists and creatives.

    Be sure to tune in to gain insights into Jessica’s creative process, her entrepreneurial spirit, and her vision for the future.

    Key Episode Takeaways

    • Authenticity is key in the creative process.
    • Creating something that is true to oneself and conveys a message or feeling is more important than following traditional techniques or trends.
    • Failure is an essential part of the creative journey. Embracing failure and learning from it can lead to growth and the development of a unique artistic voice.
    • Teaching and empowering others can be a rewarding experience for both the teacher and the student.
    • Sharing knowledge and helping others find their creative spark can have a significant impact.
    • Social media can be a double-edged sword for the creative community. While it provides a platform for exposure and connection, it can also be a source of negativity and comparison.
    • Finding a balance and focusing on the positive aspects is crucial.
    • Finding one’s creative voice and staying true to it is a continuous process. It requires self-reflection, experimentation, and a willingness to evolve and adapt.
    • Self-awareness is crucial in art. Understanding your inspirations, motivations, and personal style can lead to more authentic and meaningful work.
    • Kindness and grace are essential in the creative industry. Supporting and uplifting others, rather than tearing them down, can create a more positive and inclusive community.
    • The Heart of the Maker program focuses on inspiration, design, and the order of operations in creating art. It helps artists tap into their creativity and develop their own unique style.

    Chapters

    (times are estimates)

    00:00

    Embracing Authenticity

    09:23

    The Value of Failure

    25:56

    Navigating Social Media

    37:16

    Finding and Evolving Your Creative Voice

    38:42

    Navigating Online Communities

    41:37

    The Shift in Interactions

    44:24

    The Importance of Design and Play

    53:52

    Teaching the Order of Operations

    01:09:12

    Innovative Solutions for Tumbling Jewelry

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