Hey there, can you introduce yourself?

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Tell us a bit about the book?

DIY Statement Necklaces is chock-full of 35 projects with a necklace for every occasion! It was important to me to have a range of techniques and materials that are accessible to anybody, so there projects for everyone from the jewelry making novice to someone who already enjoys making jewelry but is looking for fresh ideas or techniques. With each project, I broke down basic jewelry steps, so you'll learn the skills to use in any kind of future jewelry making. I also shared some basics on my favorite materials to use and resources on buying supplies.

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What was the inspiration behind it?

I love how transformative a great necklace can be for your look. Statement necklaces are also so easy to customize to your personal style, and crafting them yourself ensures that the compliment you and your wardrobe and reflect your individuality. When it comes to DIY jewelry, I think you get the most bang for your buck with a great necklace because they really define your outfit!

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Which is your favourite project?

One of my favorites is the mixed chain and ribbon necklace. It has a great mixed-media look, and I love that project lets you experiment with different types of chain and use up any vintage or leftover pieces you might have on hand. No two of this necklace would be the same!

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What is your craft space like?

I live in a pretty small apartment, but I have a nook near my windows dedicated to my crafting, with shelves stocked with craft supplies and a desk to work on. It's often in a state of controlled chaos, though I try my best to have a place for everything and everything in its place! Some of my favorite storage tricks I've used include a magnetic knife rack to hold my jewelry pliers and a framed piece of foam board wrapped in velvet for mounting and hanging finished pieces or works in progress. It's important to photograph projects near a natural light source, so I've been known to make and shoot things in odd places, like the bathroom floor or on my bed, using foam core as a portable work surface.

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Have you always been creative?

I've always been interested in making and creating. While I was never the greatest in art class, I love the creativity of making things and have been crafting since I was a kid. I rediscovered my love of making again when I started teaching after college. Encouraging the creativity of my students made me want to create again too!

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When did you first start crafting?

I've been making things for about as long as I can remember! Polymer clay was probably one the first materials crafted with and I loved making little miniatures. In middle school and high school, I began jewelry making and some sewing. I had a big handmade hemp jewelry phase!

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Who are your crafty heroes?

My family are my craft heroes! My grandfather is a regular MacGyver and comes up with clever, homemade solutions to any kind of problem. My grandmother and mom are also very crafty, and my father has a great do-it-yourself attitude toward life and tackles all sorts of projects. They all inspired me and have always supported my crafting and creativity.

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Where do you find inspiration?

The Internet opens up such a world of inspiration! I love browsing jewelry online for trends and new ideas, and often turn to some of my favorite jewelry designers for inspiration. However, when I'm in a creative rut, sometimes the best inspiration comes from the materials I have on hand. By sitting down and fiddling with my supplies, I get ideas for new pieces.

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What's next for you?

Writing the book was a whirlwind and happened very quickly, so I'm taking some time to relax and celebrate all that hard work!