I have been making jewelry for about 5 or 6 years now...I think?!? LOL

Honestly...this is kind of a funny story! I never imagined I would like making jewelry. My aunt, Charlotte, was the one who inspired me to try it. I went with her several times to the local bead store before I finally broke down and bought some supplies to try it!

My aunt taught me the basics. For the most part though, I am self-taught. I read lots of books and magazines! LOL

I have also learned a lot from friends in The Wire Artisans Guild! The group is comprised of a lot of VERY talented artisans!

I have started taking a few workshops recently to learn more about metalsmithing. There are several great teacher in Charlotte, NC...let me know if you want more information! I can't wait to take  more classes!

I gain inspiration from many places.

...artist, books, magazines, television, and nature. Not to mention past experiences and techniques used in other mediums, like crocheting. I also, find inspiration in antique fine, bridge, and costume jewelry.

I sold my first piece of jewelry to a friend  in 2005.

My friend stopped by and I was making a necklace. I had several sitting around and she really liked them. She asked if she could buy all of them from me! I think I sold them for less than the cost of materials I had in them! :)

I had to have some way to pay for the addiction! LOL That's exactly what jewelry making is for me; an addiction. It has consumed my life! My head is contantly filled with designing and figuring out how to make the design! I'm also guilty of being a bead hoarder! Seriously though, the cost of materials and tools can add up quick! A strand of good quality semi-precious gemstone beads can easily cost a hundred to hundreds of dollars...for one strand!

I guess there are several reasons I decided to start selling it, but I would say mainly to fuel the obssession! :)

Currently you can find me jewelry online and at two galleries in North Carolina. From time to time, you may also find me at craft shows.  

To purchase online and see all pieces that are currently available for purchase, please visit my Etsy Shop. My Etsy shop name/username is jennlyn54.

You can visit my shop by clicking on the link below.

 Jennifer Gardner Designs can also be purchased at the following galleries:

artSHAK Studio + Gallery

822 N. Howe Street, Southport, NC 28461

(910)457-1757

Maddi's Gallery

1530 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203

(704)332-0007

"Etsy is an online marketplace for buying & selling all things handmade."

Etsy was created in 2005. Etsy now has over 1.5 million members. According to Etsy Administration, December 2008 Stats were as follows... 

• $12.9  million of goods were sold
• That represents  815,327  items sold, a 13.4% increase from November's stats.
• 1,098,644  new items were listed
• 410,365,372  page views were recorded on the site

All I can say is that you have to check it out for yourself! You will not be disappointed! :) On Etsy, you can find anything from a $1 handmade card to a custom designer wedding gown or piece of furniture that cost thousands! They also have a huge selection of craft supplies.

Of course! I enjoy making custom pieces and working with you to design a piece that you will just love!

I also make a lot of custom pieces for brides and bridal parties! Please don't hesitate to ask if you have any special requests! :)

In most cases, I can! Please contact me if you have a specific piece in mind.

I don't teach "classes." However, I have met with people one-on-one, and taught the techniques I use and basic beading techniques. If you are in the Charlotte (NC) area, and are interested in learning any of these techniques or basic beading techniques, please contact me! I am always happy to share what I do!