Makeunder My Life

Good afternoon! I hope you are having a great day so far. I want to pop in and share an interview I did with MML sponsor, Kristi, of the jewelry shop, Mischief by Loki (etsy shop). One thing is clear, this lovely lady knows how to metal smith. And with her designs so refined and site so professional, it’s incredible that she’s less than one year into her business. See how she’s made it a reality in her interview answers.

She’s also generously offered to do a giveaway of one of her gorgeous birthstone rings, contest details are below.

Interview with Kristi, designer of Mischief by Loki

When did you know that you wanted to be a jewelry designer?

I’ve played with color, texture and space in a variety of ways throughout the years, but I never considered myself a designer or a creative or crafty person. I could see a finished product in my head but what I created just never lived up to my vision. I started making some simple beaded earrings several years ago but was never fully satisfied with those either. That was until I decided to add some metal elements and signed up for a metalsmith class at a local community college. Finally! A vehicle that could turn my visions into actual creations.

My husband is the one who encouraged me to open my Etsy shop in January. I still couldn’t quite believe that anyone would want to purchase anything I made–but they do!

What’s your design inspiration?

Inspiration for my designs come from everything I see–the interplay of light and texture and color. Fashion and architecture. Things that are a little mischievous and unexpected. But mostly, inspiration comes from the stones and metal itself. It sounds a little strange, perhaps, but sometimes it seems like the stones I choose ask for certain settings or shapes. The same thing happens with pieces of metal left over from other projects. That means I usually make one of a kind pieces, though many have similar design elements.

The name Mischief by Loki was inspired by my crazy dog Loki. He’s named for the Norse god of trickery and he (and his little sister) are certainly full of mischief. I like to think that their mischievous ways help keep me laughing and looking at everything from unexpected perspectives.

What is your favorite part of entrepreneurship or jewelry design?

My favorite part of designing jewelry is taking kind of plain, individual items and turning them into something lovely. I love to see metal take on new shape and life. There are so many techniques that can be used to create the designs and it’s fun to find new ways to do things.

But I have to say… one of my favorite things is to hear from people who love my creations and get such enjoyment from something completely developed by me. It makes me want to work harder so I can make things even better.

What’s the most important thing you’ve learned from the business side of jewelry design?

It’s a lot of work! I’m the creative designer, fabricator, supply orderer, shipper, marketer, technical support, and on and on. And that’s after spending all day at my day job. The most important lesson I’m still learning is that it’s so important to take time off. If I try to force myself to fabricate a ring when I’m too tired or grumpy or stressed, I just end up with a glob of melted silver. There’s always something else to do so on those days I work on accounting or learn more about social media or clean my studio.

Where do you see the company going in two years?

At this point I’ve been in business less than a year. It’s hard to imagine where I could be in two years after so much has happened in only a few months! I’m in the process of building a website, which will include a blog where I hope to provide design, creativity and metalsmithing tips and inspiration. But if we’re dreaming big… in two years I would like to see my designs featured in a magazine and on strangers that I pass in the street (ok, even just a few strangers would be fantastic!). I’d also like to make enough money that my husband and I can take an amazing trip every year.

Giveaway – (1) Birthstone Ring

To enter to win your own customized birthstone ring, simply visit Kristi’s shop and comment here on which design is your favorite. Comments will be accepted until next Tuesday, August 10th.