Something from the MailBag...

As you know, I like to share some of the questions and answers from our mail when I think it's something that might be of general interest and this is one of those times. *s*

I would like to know if you will be offering kits on finished jewelery such as the beautiful stone and maille necklaces on your site.
Thank you
Christina
Christina, thanks for the nice comments on my jewelry. *s*

My purpose in designing kits is to teach techniques that provide a solid foundation for the expression of your own creative vision. Some instructors teach specific projects in a 'you can make this bracelet' or 'you can make these earrings' sort of way. Each stone, pearl and bead is provided and they usually specify that taking the class gives you permission to make one for yourself, but that you aren't allowed to make that project to sell. I'm sure those classes are fun, especially for people who are making jewelry for the pleasure of it, for themselves or for gifts.

My focus, though, is on teaching a solid foundation of skills, especially to people who make or want to make jewelry for a living. When you're putting together one of our kits, my intention is not only to teach you the weave, but to provide you a perfect example of it, made with the finest rings in the most ideal aspect ratio. (This is why the jewelry resulting from our kits is so much heavier and more substantial than others and also why we make kits, rather than selling instructions alone.) The resulting chain is luxuriously dense and elegant and a shining example of the strength and beauty possible in the weave when all its design elements are just right.

All of our projects are, intentionally, completely unadorned. Our kits don't include stones, beads or other focal points that lock them into a particular look or style precisely because I don't want to influence your vision with my tastes. My intention is to teach you how to make the strongest and most beautiful foundations for your own creative vision. And my hope is that, while you're learning with the kit, your mind will be full of all the possibilities, all the glorious things you can do with what you're learning. *s*

I'm happy when my jewelry designs provide inspiration for some of those visions, of course, but my goal isn't to teach my style and tastes, but rather to inspire you in the pursuit of your own.

-- Aislyn