Metal Smithing Class-Fabrication Techniques

I'm currently taking a metal smithing class focused on fabrication techniques at the Craft Guild of Dallas. My instructor is the ever patient Suzy Badger. This is one of of the few opportunities I have to learn new techniques because they offer evening intstruction!

I have learned to make a silver domed ring, cut out my own earring designs(pictured) and I'm currently working on a bezel ring with chrysolloca.

The Craft Guild is such an awesome place. They also offer classes in metal clay, lampwork beads, dichroic glass, bookbinding & pottery.

Creating HandCrafted Jewelry Is My Passion

Find Something You Can Be Passionate About
--Martha Stewart

It is hard for me to fathom. I keep wanting to pinch myself. Not that long ago, I was working as a clinical scientist in a management role. While I thrived on the challenges and fast pace, my heart was not just in it anymore.

I start beading as a hobby with a dear friend who is now back home in Japan. ;( Although, I have moved on from beadweaving into lampwork beads, fused glass and silver fabrication, I still thank my lucky stars that I met Nozomi and got introduced to beading.

My hobby turned business is my passion. My creative gene was dormant for so many years when it finally turned on it was like an explosion in my brain. I can't tell you how many times, I have put the kids to bed and looked at the clock and it is 2 or 3am in the morning.

Jewelry is very competitive as a business but I am so passionate about my designs and marketing my jewelry that I do not let this interfere. I have set goals and go after them....the passion is my fuel.

I would love to hear what your passions are and what keeps you up at night! ;)