Bead Chat Magazine Winter 2014 | Page 94

An Interview with Patti Vanderbloemen By Cynthia Machata Today Patty her designs. “Most of to lets the beads speak her to inspire my jewelry incorporates beads, mostly artisan-made beads, and sometimes gemstones. My colors in my jewelry tend to come from the artist beads. I NEVER buy a bead with a design in mind – I should … but I don’t. I know how much time and creative energy goes into each of those artisan beads. So, I truly try to design a piece that enhances the beauty of the beads. I never know if a strand of lampwork beads will make its way into a necklace, bracelet, earrings, etc. It’s a personal challenge for me each day to pick the right metal – patinate or leave it shiny. I try to make each piece 100 percent handmade… jump rings, head pins, chain….right down to the clasp. I have recently tried to incorporate my own handmade metal beads as well – the ‘messy nest’ style or soldered hollow lentils. My most inspiring moment for any piece of jewelry I make is when I take it out of the tumbler and I truly try to make each piece ‘better’ than the last.” Lastly I asked what advice she’d give to give to new aspiring artists just joining our community? “Personally, I feel that I am in a constant state of learning. This used to frustrate my younger ME, but my older ME has adapted and instead of frustration with not being able to progress to the next step, I truly feel it is part of my learning process. I cannot get to the top unless I take the steps, albeit one at a time. The important thing is to take the steps, instead of sitting on the sidelines. So, my advice would be GO FOR IT – whatever the medium. And ask questions…utilize the myriad of forums and groups out there to gain advice and tips. Finally, don’t be afraid to show your work! Everybody started at the same place – the beginning.” Blog: http://myaddictionshandcrafted.blogspot. com Shop: bloemen http://www.etsy.com/shop/PattiVander- Facebook: http://facebook.com/patti.van