Etsy Interview with TheWatersEdge

I'm Robin Waters, a mother of two, a wife and a nurse....I work full time at my job.

Nineteen years ago we purchased the home of my dreams, a Queen Anne Victorian cottage. Built in 1883 it has required extensive renovation to return it to its former splendor. I'm not done yet, just taking a short hiatus. But through that process I've learned a lot about myself and my strengths.

My husband and I are rock hounds, we love scouring the Lake Superior shoreline and taking day trips into the Keweenaw Peninsula looking for rocks and minerals. When I opened my Etsy shop thewatersedge was a natural shop name, the hours spent there are countless!

I am a vegetarian and I used to be a runner, but my knees have worn out.

I am the sort of person that loves to research, investigate and seek new knowledge, so my hobbies suit me well.

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

It was really my husband's idea. One day we were in the car driving north... he said "you have a great eye for detail and design, plus you love rocks...you should make jewelry". I laughed the idea off. Eventually, I revisited the concept. I have a nickel allergy so I am most interested in the use of natural and synthetic (non metals) in the design, where skin to metal contact is absent or very limited. I do however, do design pieces for sterling, copper and gold fill chain or wire.

When and how did you originally find Etsy?

I have been aware of Etsy for about 3 years, I adore the concept. It's so innovative. It took me over a year and a half to get the nerve to open my Etsy shop. The creativity and ingenuity of so many Etsy artists is astonishing.

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

It's very fun, interesting and vibrant....it's also very personal. I think anytime a customer can have direct contact with the artist/supplier it is key and an opportunity. Contact with thewatersedge customers... whether designing a piece or hearing from them once they are wearing it... is the very best part of Etsy. Making them thrilled with the purchase is the payoff.

What inspires you the most in regards to your creations?

I am completely enthralled with the natural environment I live in. In the Upper Peninsula of Michigan we are blessed to enjoy an abundance of beauty. I'm also influenced by the stone or material. I buy for color generally, then once it's in my hand will decide what to do with the piece.

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

The Seul Choix Pointe Bracelet makes me smile every time I finish....it's a gorgeous piece. (Or maybe it's just being done with a really long weave). I have designed several pearl pendants in the past month that I adore.

What do you want to accomplish with your online shop?

Personal growth. No real goals beyond that. I have taken multiple metal smith classes.... metals offer so many design possibilities; it is more time intensive for me though.

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

More silver and copper pieces some using stone. I also fell head over heels in love with great freshwater pearls, I love the organic shapes and ethereal color pearls offer. Eventually I would like to use rocks and minerals we have found in my design, we have or have access to all the needed lapidary equipment, saws, polishers, drills etc. Just need to practice and perfect.

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

I don't currently blog or post my jewelry on Facebook, there just isn't enough hours in a day. In the future perhaps there will be more time.