Why Make Jewelry?
I’m asked this question often, mostly by my dad. Inevitably, after I tell him about a new piece of equipment I’ve bought, a new class I’m taking, or a new technique I’ve learned, he’ll ask, "What are you going to do with all that stuff?" But, he’s not the only person who queries me about my hobby. Some times I even ask myself what I’m doing. What is the point? I’m not a professional jeweler, and I don’t plan to ever make jewelry as a career. I think we all have our own reasons we find the art of jewelry crafting interesting.
Creative Outlet
Jewelry making is a form of self expression. So many of us today are tied to technology, either through our jobs or even leisure activities (like checking out this Jewelry Making site), that we need a creative outlet that uses our hands, mind, and spirit. By touching metal, beads, or wire, designing a piece of art some one can wear and enjoy, and then enjoying the outcome of our labor, this allows us to express ourselves in a unique way.
Extra Income
In the early 80s, I started up my jewelry making hobby on a more serious level. One reason I became so interested in making jewelry was because people started asking to buy my work. It surprised me. It also made me feel great! I sold my first pair of earrings to a friend for $2. Then she told a friend, who told a friend, well, you get the idea. Though I hesitate to say you can get rich or even make a living from this hobby, it is possible to earn extra income. Of course, if you’re like most of us, you spend all that you make on tools, metal, wire, beads, and the list goes on.
Retirement Hobby
Many of the rock and jewelry people I meet are retired. However, they keep themselves busy. One way they do this is through their involvement with this hobby. There are always new ideas to learn when it comes to making jewelry. And, there are always many areas to explore from the lapidary arts, to metal work, to beads. There usually is something for every one. Though I have another 30 years before I can retire, I see my husband and I driving around in an RV participating in shows, collecting rocks, and exploring the world. Too many times I hear of people being bored when they retire. I won’t mention any names, but some people even go so far as to go back to work! So, it’s never too early, or too late, to get involved with this fun hobby.
Social Exchange
My husband and I aren’t a very social couple. We have caller ID (a great invention) and screen our calls. I always look through the peep hole and only answer the door if it’s some one I know (and want to talk to). But, even we have found enjoyment in the social exchanges we are thrust into through our making of jewelry. Classes, shows, clubs, seminars, are all sources for socializing, and I find that I like most of the people we meet. Most rock and jewelry people are fun to be with and generous with their knowledge.
These are only a few reasons why most of us become involved with jewelry making. If you’ve been sitting on the jewelry making side lines for awhile, I hope you are now encouraged to join in. If you’ve been making jewelry for awhile, you might find it interesting to stop and think. Why do you make jewelry?
Post your thoughts, ideas, and questions on the jewelry making forum.
Here are some other related articles: How to Sell Your Arts and Crafts from Home
Finding Jewelry Making Classes
How to Photograph Your Jewelry
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