Tell us about yourself such as where you are base, other than jewelry making, what is your full time job?
I’m based in Klang, other than jewelry making, i’m a full time graphic designer in a company i work for in Kajang.
Do you intend to make jewelry making your full time profession?
I have actually thought about making it a full time profession, since i can combine both jewelry making and graphic design. Maybe in the near future.
How did you start doing jewelry (or beadmaking) as a business? Do you specialise in specific method?
I started with jewelry making about 10 years ago with my elder sis, Eva. She inspired me to start beading again. So i started a research on beading and beads and worked my way up. I wouldn’t say that i specialize in one particular method, because i do a variation of designs.
When people start doing jewelry, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them, tell us how has your jewelry work changed since you began?
I think i’m still in the beginners list. I started of with Swarovski Crystals (since these were the only beads i knew at that time) making simple bracelets. Then i started looking for other ways of making designs. I bought various beads & stones and sometimes had no idea what to do with them. Haha. After much readings, testing, and makings, now i can make even customized pieces.
What would you like to work with/or what skill would you like to learn that you haven't yet?
At the moment, I’m in the process of learning about wire wrapping and i have alot of interest in making my very own clay bead. J
How many hours a week do you spend in the creative side of your business vs… the business side?
I make jewelry almost every night when i go home after work, since i live away from home, i have all the time. Beading has become an everyday part of my life.
What inspires you creatively?
Creations from other people, pictures of jewelry in the magazine and movies. My sis, Eva (she’s got an idea for these things)
Where do you sell at primarily-website, brick & mortar stores, shows, etc. Based on your experience, where is the best place to sell jewelries?
I sell through my website http://closetalert.blogspot.com. So far, i’ve only sold jewelry online, and its going great.
Do you sell mostly to customers of your local market? What are the main issues you face in selling to international market?
Yes, I sell all my jewelry locally. Though i have enquiries from overseas, mostly all of it is sold here.
Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your jewelry work?
Well, i learn alot of jewelry making and most importantly, interacting with people are already in this field.
What advice would you give to someone who is interested doing jewelry as a business?
Its all about making the first step. That counts the most. Make the first step and the rest will follow.
Do you have any big/exciting news or different directions for your business this year or year 2009?
Its Year 2009, and yes, i have al ot of new things i would like to do, like go for my first offline sale.( more info soon). J
Who are some of your favourite artists and crafters?
Wendy Gan and Shi Min and Roundbean.
Amelia, thanks for sharing the insights. I wish you a prosperous year 2009.
