Etsy Interview with Dazzled Beader Designs

My name is Melissa. I'm 29 again. I'm an animal lover, which is why 10% of all proceeds from Dazzled Beader Designs are donated to the Humane Society. I have a feisty black and white cat named Grace who tries very hard to keep me in line. She's still got some work to do. I'm not totally trained yet. I named my cat Grace because I've
learned all about the "grace" (unconditional love) that Christ has for people. I felt animals love very unconditionally so the name Grace seemed like a good fit. Also, I'm a graphic designer for my "day job". That came in very handy when I was designing promotional materials and a shop banner for Dazzled Beader Designs.

How and when did you start making jewelry and your other items?

I heard about a group of women who got together and made jewelry in between eating and chatting. This was back in December of 2007. It sounded like fun, so I joined the group. I've made some great new friends through the group. I started out just stringing beads. Then, we took a class on wire wrapping. I was hooked. I've been making wire jewelry ever since. It's fun to bend wire into all sorts of unique shapes. In January of 2009 I decided I had enough jewelry for myself and began looking for a way to sell my creations. I opened my shop in February of 2009, I chose the shop name as a tribute to these women who call themselves the Bead Dazzlers. Since they dazzled me into beading, I decided to name my shop Dazzled Beader Designs.

When and how did you originally find Etsy?

Back in January or February of 2009, I was doing an internet search for places to sell jewelry on-line. After looking at other people's opinions, I decided to give Etsy a try.

What is unique about Etsy and what about the website do you like the most in regards to your shop?

I like that Etsy is a handmade venue so it naturally attracts people who are looking for handmade goods. I also like that the fees are fairly reasonable. The forums are a great help. I've asked a few questions and other Etsy sellers have been so kind and helpful!

What inspires you the most in regards to your creations?

Ideas can come from so many places. I can look at plants, butterflies, flowers and think about how beautiful that shape would be made into a wire pendant. Working as a graphic artist, I come in contact with plenty of office supplies. I was inspired by paperclips. I thought sterling silver earrings in the shape of a paperclip would be interesting. My faith inspires me too. I've incorporated Christian symbols into some of the jewelry at Dazzled Beader Designs. There's an angel, a dove, a Christian fish, a cross and a hope bracelet.

What is your favorite piece you've created and why?

My favorite piece so far is the butterfly necklaces. It was one of the first hand formed wire pendants I made. I sketched several designs in a notebook until I was satisfied with the final outcome. Then I spent quite awhile playing with the wire until I got it just right. I was so thrilled with it, I made one for myself. Over time, it evolved into a
customizable piece. So, now at Dazzled Beader Designs, I offer "choose your color" butterfly necklaces with three or four swarovski crystals in whatever colors the customer wants. Birthstone colors are available.

What do you want to accomplish with your online shop?

I would like to continue to raise money to help animals at the humane society. My goal is to provide customers with unique jewelry and excellent service. I also really like the personalized touch, so I'm working on new ideas for my "choose your color" line. Customers really like personalizing their jewelry with colors of their choice.

Do you have any new creations in the works? If so, what can shoppers expect to see from you soon?

Yes. I have a mood necklace in the works as well as a "choose your color" guardian angel pin. Dazzled Beader Designs recently began offering tutorials so I am currently working on a tutorial teaching people how to make their own wire jewelry findings.

Where can readers find out about more information regarding your jewelry and other creations and possible special offers (including additional websites, blogs, facebook, etc)?

Dazzled Beader Designs has a blog at
http://dazzledbeader.blogspot.com. I can also be followed on twitter
at http://www.twitter.com/dazzledbeader or on facebook at
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dazzled-Beader-Designs/81579001953