Country: USA

Design/Expertise-related information

What technique(s) are you particularly focusing on?
Exclusively I have been working with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS for about 8 years. I have used most bead shapes, flatback and hotfix, a variety of fancy stones, sew on stones, pendants, pearls and started to work with round/chaton stones and resin.

Since when have you already been holding workshops?
I have been teaching a variety of art workshops for both adults and children for about 13 years. I started teaching using SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS about 8 years ago.

What fascinates you about using SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS?
I love the variety of colors, shapes and finishes. I particularly enjoy the line of opal colors, but find the range and depth of color choices available a plus in my designing. I also use a variety of shapes in my design and feel that different sizes and shapes create different shifts or play to each color and offer me more flexibility as a designer to design with.

What is your favorite SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS color?
I particularly enjoy the line of opal colors, but find the range and depth of color choices available a plus in my designing. The new colors launched a couple of imes during the year follow or help create the trends and are always a refreshing and contemporary addition to the overall line. Pacific Opal was my first love. I have found every cut and size presents the colors a little different and my strength as a colorist relies on these small nuances.

What is your favorite SWAROVSKI ELEMENT?
I love them all and continue to experiment with the whole product line.

What is your favorite design you have ever created with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS?
My Brilliant Bangle featured in the April 2007 issue of Bead&Button Magazine. I have taught this class a lot over the years and still get great reviews for the piece. It is one of those pieces I love to wear.

Personal information

What are your hobbies?
Anything creative, walking, reading and sharing time with good friends

How would you describe yourself in three words?
Creative, stylish and fun

What would you definitely take with you on a lonely island?
A sketch book for drawing and a good book to read

What is the first thing at the day you usually do?
Drop the kids off, check my email and start to create

What is your motto of life?
God gave us our gifts and it is up to us to use them in the best way…everyday.