Interview with Sonia Fielding, continued.

Gold Watch

Where do you look for inspiration when you want to design something new?

I look at fashion magazines and in boutiques to get an idea of what colours are fashionable for the current and upcoming season, but the inspiration for the actual designs just come from my head!

What would be your favourite part in the process of creating a piece?

My favourite part would definitely be seeing the end result. There are no words to describe the sense of achievement and satisfaction of seeing your idea come to life.

Why would you suggest beading or jewellery making as a craft for someone looking for a new hobby?

You can make fashion accessories such as earrings at a fraction of the price that you see them for sale in fashion stores and with a bit of practice, they are extremely easy to make. You don’t need to outlay a huge amount of money to start up your new hobby, as long as you have a few beads, some findings and a couple of pairs of pliers.

Have you got any advice for people that are considering it?

Beware – it’s ADDICTIVE!

I'd Love to be Under the Sea

What else do you like to do aside from working with beads?

I have just enrolled to do Certificate II in Floristry at TAFE, so I will be doing that on a part time basis as well as my beading.

Can you describe your workspace?

Busy, cluttered and pink! Our spare room is dedicated to my beading. One entire wall has been converted into a massive storage area to house my beads in various containers, tubs and jars. I have two desks; one for creating my jewellery and the other to use as a home office. I have a whiteboard and blackboard to write myself “to do” lists and sketch different ideas. Apart from the kitchen, the “beading room” is the hub of the house!

If you would change it, what would you do?

Definitely would like to install some better lighting and a decent heater!

What benefits have you found the internet has for your craft?

I couldn’t live without the internet! I have my own website, so obviously the internet is a crucial part of running a small business. I also use the internet to source beads from around the world and to research different venues and outlets to sell my beads, such as fairs, markets and festivals.

What are two craft tools that you could not live without?

The internet and my 3-in-1 rosary pliers.

Beaded jewellery interview continued on next page
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