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