50th Sale Feature on 3 Magpies

1)How did you first hear about etsy:

I first heard about etsy when visiting Arkansas last April. My daughters and I were shopping in a quaint rock shop and the proprietor told us that her husband listed and sold some of his beautiful handcrafted pendants online at etsy. I came home and researched etsy on the internet. I joined in September of 2008, but did not list anything until November 28. I have only made 8 sales on etsy, but I have made lots of contacts with many other fabulous artisans, yourself included, Devin. I love your cards!

2)Tell us about a little about yourself and your favorite craft/art!:

I am the mother of two daughters. We live in Grand Rivers Kentucky near the lake. We love to explore and travel. I have always had a love for rocks and have collected them since childhood. We "treasure hunt" fairly often in LBL and other secret places looking for treasures to turn into jewelry!

I began making jewelry as a way to be creative and positive away from my regular job. I work in a school district with at risk and truant students. The job is rewarding, but often is very very stressful. Making jewelry takes my mind off of the stresses of my job and really off life in general.

3)How did you get started as a designer?:

I took a wirewrapping class at a shop (now closed) in Paducah called Poppyseeds and Beads with Sherry Johnson as the instructor. A couple of my friends and I had a blast there. That was two years ago. I haven't taken any additional jewelry classes, but I have logged many hours practicing and creating. I simply lovelovelove it! I wear some of my designs. Friends and family members complimented them and others wanted to buy them. I was astounded that anyone would want to purchase something I had made, but I have given away and sold probably 200 original designs.

4)What inspires you to create?:

The colors of stones and the way they look and feel together inspires me.

5)How do you get the word out about your shop and etsy?:

I'm still struggling with that one. I really love to create... selling...not so much. I wish I had an agent. Is there such a thing as an etsy agent???

6)Any advice you would give to aspiring designers?:

Make beautiful objects and have lots of fun!



Check out her Awesome shop: www.3magpies.etsy.com