How can I become a jewelry artist?

I get asked this question a lot from students and other people I meet that buy my jewelry. Making the cross over from a jewelry enthusiast or part time crafter is a big step. There are certainly a few things to keep in mind:

1. Business versus hobby is a big difference, especially to the IRS. Are you committed to keeping accounts and records separate for business and personal expenses and receipts?

2. Are you ready to invest time into marketing your jewelry? It's one thing to have a few family members and co-workers buy your jewelry, but selling to the general public is a whole new challenge.

3. Do you have the resources to invest in producing a lot of inventory? Potential customers need to have more than just a few pieces to buy from.

4. Are you ready to pay other associated business expenses? Government licenses, business bank account fees, invoice pads, accounting software, associated presentation items, boxes, (and the list goes on).

5. Are you ready to be "on call" for your business? There will be no more, "yeah, I'll get back to you." You'll have to be ready to serve the customer!

6. Outside marketing is a must! Websites, business cards, making contacts with galleries.

7. Are you thinking about doing the art show scene? Plan on spending $1500 to get you booth ready. That doesn't even include jury and entry fees.

8.  Have you considered your costs in producing your work?  It's one thing to not be concerned about making a profit on a piece, but once you're in business, you need to be able to pay for your materials and overhead and (at least a little bit ) to yourself.

Phew! It's a big list, but certainly something everyone needs to consider. If you're not ready to make the full plunge yet, sites like Etsy or Ebay may be a better choice to "get your feet wet."

Thornebrook Art Festival wrap up

I had a great time at the Thornebrook Art Festival in Gainesville this past weekend. I got a chance to catch up with customers and friends and enjoyed the opportunity to meet new people. I shared a preview of my new work with resin and recycled glass, (which was given away in a drawing --- watch for the next blog post to see the winner) and had some of my remaining sterling silver and 14k gold work on sale. For those of you who expressed sadness that I wouldn't be making the semi-precious stone jewelry again, don't despair! You never know when it might show up again. :)

I've included a few pictures from the Thornebrook Art Festival show.


In the meantime, I am working on my new line of resin jewelry in the studio. I will be posting pictures on this blog. I welcome comments and encourage everyone to ask questions. I am happy to share my processes. I am also redesigning the KMS Designs website to correspond with the new jewelry line. I hope everyone finds it a bit more user friendly.

The new resin and acrylic jewelry will be shown for the first time at the Downtown Festival and Art Show, downtown Gainesville, November 14 and 15, 2009. If you would like a reminder of the event, please register for my mailing list (link found at the right side of this page).