Saturday Artisan: Designs by Tracy Brigham

Meet this week Saturday Artisan, Tracy, the artist behind Designs by Tracy Brigham, a shop full of jewelries for any occasion, Wine Glass charms, Napkin Rings, and Hummingbird Feeders.

With the holiday shopping fast approching, you may want to visit her shop and get those wonderful gifts for your loved ones. So many to choose!


Tell us a bit about yourself and what arts/ crafts that you make?
I have had a career in the banking industry for 23 years, until last year when I decided I was tired of dealing with the politics of Corporate America. I have spent the last year trying to figure out what I want to do with my life. I have one child who is now 22 years old and mostly on her own. (I'm not sure if they are ever completely on their own.) My daughter has been telling me for years that I should sell the items that I make, so I decided to finally do that and opened a shop on Etsy. I have been working with beads and wire as a hobby for about 8 or 9 years. I make Jewelry, wine glass charms, napkin rings, and hummingbird feeders. My favorite things to work with are gemstone beads and sterling silver.



Which part of creation process that you like to do the most?
I enjoy sitting down with the materials I want to use for a project and coming up with a new design.



Could you share on how you organize your products, we all can use a little tips here and there in this department?
I have containers and containers of beads that are stored by color and whether they are gemstones, glass, or crystal. I have learned that for me everything has to have its place or I end up spending more time looking for things than actually creating. I try to keep like items together. Ex: Sterling silver components, silver plated components, jewelry tools, packaging items, etc.


What is your favorite item in your shop?
That is a hard question it changes from day to day. Right now I would say I have two favorites:

My Clear Crystal and Smoky Quartz Asymmetrical Necklace

My Swarovski Bronze Pearl Stretch Bracelet


What is your goal for 2010? And are you on the right track?
My goal for 2010 was to decide on a new career. I am really enjoying having the time to be creative and hopefully making that into a successful business. I am also applying to nursing school, which I am very excited about. I am definitely on track.

Holiday season is fast approaching. Give us a scoop on your prep. What are you excited to offer for 2010 holiday season?
I am participating in two craft shows in October and December. They will be the first shows that I have participated in, so I am working on displays, packaging, and items. I am excited about offering my Napkin Rings for the 2010 holiday season. People have been very interested in my Napkin Rings for holiday dinners and also as gifts.


What is your favorite tool that you cannot live without?
My jewelry pliers, I would never be able to work with sterling silver and other metals without them.


Stay-tuned for tomorrows new giveaway.
In the meantime, enter the giveaways that we have currently on: Skribblykids and KhaliNouveau's giveaways.