1. Tell us about yourself such as where you are base, other than jewelry making, what is your full time job?
Hi. I'm Peggy and I'm based in Singapore. I'm a full time undergraduate at NTU (Nanyang Technological University). My shop site is http://www.minutetreasures.
2. Do you intend to make jewelry making your full time profession?
No. I see this as more of a hobby.
3. How did you start doing jewelry (or beadmaking) as a business? Do you specialise in specific Why?
It was actually quite accidental, but actually I'm quite interested in looking at the designs of handmade accessories. Every time I walk past shops I'm always looking and admiring at the designs of jewelery. While I was waiting for my A Level results, I had worked part time as a sales promoter for a costume jewellery company and the constant use of tools to repair broken jewellery piqued my interest to handmake accessories. I have a preference in using Swarovski crystals in my creations as I find that they are really very shiny and actually quite versatile in terms of colour choices, although they are fragile.
4. 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?
Hmm. I think now I'm more into making long necklaces and charm bracelets, instead of the more glamorous crystal necklaces and simpler bracelets. Now I'm also into using cameos and cabochons in my creations. I'm always in search of interesting materials to use for my creations.
5. What would you like to work with/or what skill would you like to learn that you haven't yet?
I would like to try wiring.
6. What inspires you creatively?
Hmm. Anything and anywhere. I can get my inspiration by listening to songs, walking on the streets, reading books, among other ways.
7. Do you sell mostly to customers of your local market? What are the main issues you face in selling to international market?Yes. Most of my customers are Singaporeans. However, I sometimes do post my creations on Ebay to sell internationally. Usually it would be more difficult to sell internationally due to the lack of exposure, this is how I feel. Cost is also a problem as Ebay and search engines charge for selling and listing internationally.
8. What advice would you give to someone who is interested doing jewelry as a business?
Be patient, advertise more and be creative.
9.Do you have any big/exciting news or different directions for your business this year or year 2009?
Hmm. I have set up an affliate to sell my Japanese polymer clay creations, the website is http://www.handmade-sweets-
Peggy, I wish you all the best in your business and your study!
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